How do I bring in my rifle for African hunting safari? Many first-timers are worried about this question, and for some the red tape and hurdles may seem serious enough to abandon the idea altogether. In real life, flying to Africa with your hunting guns may not be exactly easy, but quite possible, and for some destinations even simple and straightforward. Of course, if you know what you’re doing. 

Here are some guidelines that help you start. We’ll open with a brief checklist, continue to a detailed description of what you’ll need, and add specific details for such African countries as Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Namibia, Morocco, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Feel free to click on the links above to jump to the section that interests you most! 

Quick-start checklist

1. Research the temporary import regulations for your intended destination.
2. Discuss with your outfitter gun rental as Plan B (in case of baggage loss and delay), as well as help with paperwork, meeting at the airport, etc.
3. Decide on the weapons you will bring, according to species, area, and country regulation. Stick to these weapons throughout.
4. Confirm the policies of the airlines and airports, including transit, for every carrier in your itinerary before booking tickets. 
5. Gather proof of ownership, with authorized translations and notarized copies where necessary.
6. Apply for any export notifications, licenses, exit permits, if required by your country. 
7. Start destination paperwork with your outfitter, providing required documents such as passport copy, invitation letter details, photos, fees. 
8. Check transit-country rules, and whether you will need to apply for an extra transit permit.
9. Prepare appropriate cases for your weapons and ammunition. 
10. Match paperwork to reality.  Bring only the calibers and ammo counts declared on your permit; verify all serial numbers (receiver, bolt, barrel if numbered) match.
11. Print and back up everything. Two–three paper copies of every document + digital copies on your phone/cloud.
12. 72 hours before departure, notify the airline you’re traveling with a firearm; verify check-in location and any fees.

Global rules

Country permits

Most African destinations require a temporary firearms import permit issued before you arrive (often arranged by your outfitter). Expect typical limits of 2–4 firearms per hunter and 40–200 rounds per firearm, with ammunition restricted to the declared calibers only. No country on our list allows fully automatic weapons. Most also restrict semi-automatic and military pattern rifles; handguns for self-defense are off the table, although dedicated hunting handguns may be accepted in some locations subject to extra justification. Archery equipment usually needs no permit, but crossbows are prohibited or restricted in some jurisdictions. Always read the fine print for age limits, silencer/suppressor rules, and any ammo taxes on arrival or departure.

Airline rules (always stricter wins)

Airlines and airport security can be stricter than national law—their rules control whether your firearm flies at all. Pack each firearm unloaded in a rigid, lockable hard case; keep keys/combos with you for inspection. Many carriers require bolts removed on bolt guns and magazines empty. 

Ammunition must ride in sturdy factory packaging (or equivalent) and is typically limited to ≤5 kg / 11 lb per passenger, regardless of how many firearms you check. Verify whether your carrier wants ammo inside checked baggage in a separate locked container or inside the gun case—policies differ. 

Reloaded ammunition can be a problem. It’s advisable to travel with factory loads and keep them in factory packaging. 

For complex itineraries, confirm interline handling (will the firearm be transferred automatically?) and avoid code-share traps where the marketing airline allows guns but the operating airline does not. Reconfirm carriage and procedures 72 hours before departure.

Proof of ownership

No, unfortunately your word is not enough: you must provide solid evidence that you’re the legal owner of the weapons in question. In most countries, a national firearm license/permit listing the gun’s make, model, caliber, and serial number is acceptable. For U.S. hunters, most African authorities accept a CBP Form 4457 form as proof of ownership, although some also consider a sheriff’s affidavit or a receipt from a gun store. 

A CBP Form 4457 is a document that registers personal items (not professional or commercial articles) of foreign origin before traveling abroad; basically, it proves that you took these items out of the country, and so don’t have to pay duties or tariffs as you bring them back. It’s advisable to fill in two of them: one for firearms, the other for other valuable objects you may be carrying out. 

Although Form 4457 does not expire and may be used multiple times, it is recommended that the date stamp on the form not be more than 6 months old. South Africa specifically will not accept forms that are issued over six months back. It is also important, whenever possible, to have a dated stamped form 4457 issued in the same year that you plan to hunt. 

Whatever document you use, ensure the serial number on every numbered part (receiver, bolt, barrel if numbered) matches exactly what appears on your application—one digit off voids your permit.

Note to US Citizens Travelling Outside the USA with Firearms.

Export of firearms and ammunition, both permanent and temporary, in the USA is subject to federal export licensing regulations. The Form 4457 may not be used to declare the permanent or temporary export of firearms, ammunition or other defense articles (as defined by the United States Munitions List which requires the electronic reporting of export information in accordance with 22 C.F.R. 123.22.) Here are the official sources where you can find detailed information on importation and exportation of firearms into and from the USA. 

• Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls
• Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
• U.S. Transportation Security Administration

Changing declared guns

Once a permit application is filed, treat your declared firearms as locked-in. Bringing in a different rifle is risky even if you have the time to file another application. Officials can deny you entry to the country because the details of your rifle don’t match the old application they have on hand. If a change is unavoidable, immediately alert your outfitter, withdraw or re-file the permit as required, and be ready to rent a rifle on arrival if timing is tight. Never attempt to “explain it at the counter”—frontline officials work from the permit data, not intentions.

Transit Caveats

If you connect through another country, you may have to also comply with that country’s transit and export rules. If you have to check in on the connecting flight separately, you may need to redeclare your weapons. In particular, South Africa is a common transfer point for hunters headed to Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Namibia. In some cases you may have to obtain a South African temporary importation permit, and as the South African rules are sometimes stricter than the countries you transfer to, you should adjust your plan accordingly. 

Some transit hubs are more hunter-friendly than others. The rule of thumb is: Avoid European and British carriers and airports. Transfers in Turkey and Middle East usually run smoother and with lower risk of your rifles being lost, delayed, or damaged. 

Universal best practices 

• Serial numbers first: Your export/exit documents must exactly match the firearm markings. If some of the parts (like a barrel) carry a different number, it’s not a dealbreaker, but you must mention it in the application. 
• Paper trail: Carry 2–3 paper copies of every document (license, proof of ownership, import permit, invitation letter), and have scans or digital copies on your phone and/or in the cloud storage. 
• Time matters: Schedule at least one extra hour for each airport where you check your guns in and out, better two for more problematic destinations. Try to apply for all permits at the earliest possible date.
• When in doubt, ask: Contact your national customs/firearms authority or use a specialist permit service if your route or gear is anything but standard.

Botswana

Botswana’s firearms import rules are typical for Africa, with a permit that an outfitter obtains on behalf of the hunter, and the limit of 3 long arms per hunter with 50 rounds of ammunition per firearm.

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies on your behalf using a Letter of Proxy.
• Start several weeks in advance so the permit is waiting at the airport or border crossing point.

Documents required

• Notarized copy of your passport (photo/details page).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S. hunters—CBP Form 4457; others—national firearms license/permit listing make, model, caliber, serial number. Notarized copies.
• Outfitter invitation/itinerary confirming hunt and dates.
• Letter of Proxy authorizing the outfitter/agent to obtain the permit.
• Home-country export paperwork if required (Botswana may ask for an “export permit from country of origin”).

Fees

• Application fee: $250 per firearm.
• Government permit fee: 100 Botswana Pula (paid in local currency at the border crossing or airport).
• Ammunition import tax: VAT (~12%) + customs duty (~36%) on the declared value of cartridges, effectively ~48%; payable in Pula at entry.

Allowed

• Up to 3 firearms total (usually 2 rifles + 1 shotgun or 2 shotguns + 1 rifle).
• Ammunition: up to 100 rounds per firearm (subject to airline limit ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb total ammo per passenger).

Not Allowed

• Importing two rifles in the same chamberings – different calibers only.
• Handguns, 
• Semi-automatic and fully automatic firearms. 
• Military-pattern calibers, including 308 Win/7.62×51, .303 British, .223/5.56×45, as well as .22lr. 

Airport procedure

• Your outfitter/agent typically meets you on arrival, escorts you to the police/customs desk to present the permit, verify serial numbers, and settle the ammo tax (cash, Pula only). Keep printed copies of all paperwork.

Transit caveats

• Via South Africa (JNB): if you overnight or your bags are not interlined, you must complete South Africa’s SAPS 520(a) (multiple entry) and process the firearm through the SAPS Firearms Office before re-checking to Botswana.

Pro tips

• Make sure you will have enough Pula cash for the ammo tax; cards/foreign currency are often not accepted.
• Avoid borderline calibers and firearms designs to prevent desk-side debates.

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso requires a temporary import permit for your hunting guns, but the process is described as ‘simple and straightforward’ and is mostly handled by the outfitter. 

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies for your temporary import in advance.
• The outfitter will send you a form you will have to fill.
• Apply at least 4–6 weeks before scheduled safari time.

Documents required

• Passport copy (photo/details page).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—CBP Form 4457; others—national firearms license/permit (list make, model, caliber, serial).
• Completed application with weapon details (make/model/serial/caliber).
• Flight itinerary and outfitter invitation letter or contract.

Fees

• Government permit: dependent on number of weapons and length of stay, on the order of €50.
• Outfitter handling or courier fees may apply (usually €100–€150 total).

Allowed

• 2 rifles per hunter can be brought in. 
• Some sources state a shotgun can be added to the two rifles to make a total of three firearms—confirm with your outfitter.
• Ammunition: no definite info, but most sources quote up to 40–50 rounds per rifle. In all cases, the airline limit ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb of ammo per passenger applies, and only declared calibers may be imported.
• Semi-automatic shotguns are typically permitted for bird hunting.

Not Allowed

• Fully automatic firearms.
• Semi-automatic rifles.
• Handguns.
• Military-style weapons.

Airport procedure

• Your outfitter/agent should meet you on arrival, present the permit, and assist with customs and firearm clearance. 
• Serial numbers and ammo are checked against the permit.

Pro tip

• There’s no clarity whether shotgun shells can be imported and in what quantity, so make sure with your outfitter. 

Cameroon

Cameroon differs from most other safari destinations in that it is the hunter’s responsibility to obtain a temporary firearms import permit, which is done through the Cameroon embassy or consulate in your country, parallel with your tourist visa. There’s an age limit of 20 years. Otherwise, things are pretty regular. 

Who applies & when

• Hunter applies for a Temporary Firearm Import Permit through the Cameroon embassy/consulate in your country.
• Apply in advance and in parallel with your tourist visa.
• In most countries they only begin to process your firearms permit 4-5 days after your visa has been approved, so allow at least two weeks for the whole process. 
• You will need to send the firearms permit to the outfitter, so that they can begin obtaining your hunting lessons, so schedule accordingly. 

Documents required

• Two completed firearm-permit application forms (duplicate copies).
• Passport copy (valid ≥6 months past travel).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—original CBP Form 4457; others—home-country firearm license/permit listing make, caliber, serial.
• Passport photos (usually 2; bring extras).
• Medical certificate stating you’re fit (physically & mentally) to hunt. A letter from your family doctor is sufficient.
• Notarized CV/résumé, briefly listing your occupations.
• Flight itinerary (entry/exit dates).
• Outfitter invitation/reference letter (not necessary for permit itself, but commonly required for the visa).
• Some embassies may ask for translations—check your specific consulate.

Fees

• Consular firearm-permit fee: typically about US $600 (embassy dependent). In Europe often less.
• Verify payment methods acceptable by the specific embassy or consulate you apply to. Some only accept money order, certified check, or cashier’s check payable to ‘Embassy of Cameroon’.

Allowed

• Firearms: maximum 2 per hunter.
• Ammunition: 50 rounds per firearm (only for the declared calibers). Airline cap still applies: ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb total ammo per passenger.
• Hunting bows/crossbows: typically do not require a permit (declare at customs as needed).

Not Allowed 

• Handguns.
• Semi-automatic and automatic rifles.
• Military-style firearms.
• Temporary import of firearms by people who are not yet 20 years of age or older.

Airport procedure

• Main entry points: Douala (DLA) and Yaoundé Nsimalen (NSI). On arrival, present the original permit (keep it in carry-on), passport, and outfitter letter as requested.
• Police/customs will verify serial numbers and count ammunition.
• Expect longer processing at Douala; Yaoundé is often quicker. Many itineraries plan an overnight before domestic connections.
• Schedule enough time on departure. 

Pro tips

• “Meet and greet” service by your outfitter is strongly recommended, especially if you don’t speak French.
• Try to recover all your spent shell casings so that you can present them at the airport on the way back; any discrepancies between the number of ammo imported and exported can raise unnecessary questions.

Learn more about hunting in Cameroon

Ethiopia

Ethiopia has a relatively strict firearms importation policy, with temporary firearm import permits that outfitters apply for on behalf of their clients. The issue of your hunting license is dependent on your firearms permit, so send all documents well in advance. 

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies for your Temporary Firearm Import Permit.
• Send details 1–2 months before arrival (minimum 1 month).
• The firearm permit is approved before your Ethiopian hunting license can be issued.

Documents required

• A notarized copy of your passport (photo and details page).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—CBP Form 4457; others—home-country firearm license/permit listing make, model, caliber, serial.
• Firearm details list (make/model/caliber or gauge/serial for each gun; include intended ammo).
• Passport photo(s).

Fees

• Government permit: about US $100 per firearm.
• Outfitter fee may apply (around US$200 per firearm).
• No customs duty with a valid temporary import; all firearms/ammo must be re-exported.

Allowed

• Up to three firearms per hunter (rifles/shotguns/hunting handguns in any mix).
• Ammunition: no legal limit pro weapon, but airline limit ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb total per passenger applies; ammo must match declared calibers only.
• Dedicated hunting handguns are permitted.
• Bows and crossbows are permitted, but require the same permit as firearms. 

Not Allowed

• Fully automatic, semi-automatic, and military style firearms.
• Suppressors and military equipment are not permitted.

Airport procedure

• Entry via Addis Ababa (ADD). A representative of your outfitter will meet you at the airport and walk you through the customs. 

Pro tips

• Even if you plan to use a rental rifle, your outfitter will have to obtain a permit in your name for that firearm. 

Morocco

Morocco has strict regulations for hunting guns that can be taken into the country, with only non-semiautomatic shotguns legal, and a rather complicated import permit system. 

Who applies & when

• Outfitter or the local hunting club applies with the DGSN (National Security) and forest authorities on your behalf; you supply the docs.
• Start 4–6 weeks before travel (some operators advise 2 months).
• You must arrive with the stamped permit, ready to present at customs.

Documents required

• Passport copy (photo/ID page).
• Proof of firearm ownership (home-country license/registration; U.S.—CBP 4457).
• Firearm list: make/model/serial for each gun.
• A letter of invitation by your outfitter, or proof of association membership, stating the dates and location of the hunt.

Fees

• No widely published government fee for the DGSN import authorization; expect normal hunting licence/insurance costs via your outfitter.

Allowed

• One shotgun or rifle per hunter.
• Ammunition in limited numbers. Airline cap ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb still applies.
• Bows and arrows for hunting.

Not Allowed 

• Semi-automatic rifles.
• Military-style weapons.
• Handguns.

Airport procedure

• Use Red Channel and declare firearms (and bows). Present the pre-issued DGSN authorization.
• An officer from the DGSN (National Security) typically meets hunters at the airport. They will verify your paperwork, stamp your firearms and ammo, and oversee storage of any excess.

Pro tips

• Once cleared, you are given a temporary “permis de port d’arme et d’introduction provisoire” valid for one month. Keep copies of your passport page and this permit with you at all times while hunting.

Mozambique

A temporary import permit required for taking hunting guns to Mozambique, obtained by your outfitter, who also needs to arrange import duty exemption. A fee is collected, and all official correspondence is in Portuguese. 

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies for your temporary firearms import permit. 
• Start at least 8 weeks before arrival.
• Hunting licenses will only be processed after your firearm permit is approved. 

Documents required

• Notarized passport copy (photo/ID page).
• Passport photos (typically 4).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—CBP Form 4457; others—home-country firearms license/permit listing make, model, caliber, serial.
• Firearm details list (make/model/caliber or gauge/serial for each gun).

Fees

• Government import fee: about US $250 per firearm.
• Ammo fee: roughly US $1 per round brought in.
  Customs duty: typically waived—your outfitter secures a tax exemption at the port of entry once the permit is issued.
• Outfitter assistance (Some operators include this into the price of your package).

Allowed

• Up to 4 long arms per hunter. 
• Up to 60 rounds of ammunition per weapon (Airline cap still applies: ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb total ammo per passenger).
• Handguns for hunting can be imported on a special permit (outfitter applies)

Not allowed

• Semi-automatic and automatic rifles. 
• Rifles in regulation military calibers (e.g., 5.56×45 / .223, 7.62×51 / .308).

Airport procedure

• Your outfitter’s meet-and-assist/handler meets you at the port of entry, presents paperwork, and guides you through customs & immigration.
• You’ll receive a temporary import document at the airport; keep it with the firearms for your entire safari and present it again on departure.

Transit caveats

• Via South Africa (JNB): if you overnight or bags are not interlined, you must process through the SAPS Firearms Office with SAPS 520/520(a). 

Pro tips

• Stick to traditional designs (bolt-action or double rifles, break-open shotguns) to avoid desktop discussions.
• All official correspondence is in Portuguese.

Learn more about hunting in Mozambique

Namibia

Namibia has perhaps the most permissive firearm import rules: all you need to do to obtain a temporary important permit is to complete a simple form (POL-573) and sumbit it to Namibian authorities, by e-mailing it to firearmairport@nampol.na The permit will be issued on arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek.

Who applies & when

• Hunter applies using Namibia Police’s temporary import form (POL-573).
• Application can be made in advance by emailing the form to firearmairport@nampol.na, or completing it on arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek). The permit is issued on arrival.

Documents required

• Passport copy (photo/details page).
• Outfitter invitation letter on company letterhead (farm/concession, dates, contact).
  The POL-573 form with your firearm details (make/model/caliber/serial).

Fees

• No government fee. Permit issued free at the airport.

Allowed

• Firearms: No statutory limit on numbers, although  NAPHA recommends 2 rifles per hunter for practicality.
• Ammunition: up to 80 rounds per rifle; only for declared calibers. Airline limit still applies: ≤ 5 kg / 11 lb total ammo per passenger.
• Bows can be imported without a permit. 

Not allowed

• Handguns 
• Semi-automatic and automatic firearms
• Crossbows.

Airport procedure

• At Windhoek (WDH), proceed to the NAMPOL firearms desk after baggage claim.
• Present passport, invitation letter, and POL-573 (emailed copy or fill on site).
• Officers verify serial numbers and issue your temporary import permit on the spot. Keep it with your rifle throughout the hunt and for departure.

Transit caveats

• Via South Africa (JNB): if you overnight or bags are not interlined, you must obtain South Africa’s SAPS 520/520(a) and clear the firearm through the SAPS Firearms Office. SA rules are stricter—plan routing and firearm count accordingly. Whenever possible, fly direct to Windhoek.

Pro tip

• Although proof of ownership, in the form of Form 4457 or national license, is not required, it’s strongly recommended to take it along and carry it with your weapon at all times. 

Learn more about hunting in Namibia

South Africa

South Africa has perhaps the most complicated and the most strict rules for temporary import of firearms in the whole of Africa. You can apply on arrival, and there’s no application fee, but you’ll be required to provide a variety of documents in notarized copies, there’s an age limit of 21 years, and you can’t import two firearms of the same caliber.

Who applies & when

• Hunter applies using the SAPS 520 (Temporary Import) form.
• You can apply on arrival or in advance; the permit is issued by SAPS on arrival.
• You can hire a specialized service to help you with your application. 

Documents required

• A completed SAPS 520 form (available online). 

Fill in: 

• Page 2 Section D – Type of Permit  (tick 5 for temporary permit) 
• Page 2 Section E – Particulars of Applicant – parts 1 to 25.4, 
• Page 4 Section G – Import/Export Details – parts 1 to 9.2, 
• Page 5 Section 1 – Details of Firearms – all parts 
• Page 6 Section 1 – Declaration by person who is lawfully in possession of the firearm – parts 3 to 4.4

Use black ink, and sign in front of a SAPS officer only (don’t pre-sign). Submit all 8 pages, even if some are unchecked.

• Passport 
• Notarized copy of your passport (photograph and signature pages).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm.
  • U.S. citizens: CBP Form 4457, dated within 6 months of the date of entry. South Africa will also accept a sheriff’s affidavit or dealer invoice. 
  • Citizens of other countries: notarized copy of the firearms license or permit, and a notarized export authentication (if no official form exists, a notarized copy of the statement by the relevant police or customs office that the hunter is allowed to take weapons out of the country).
    
• A letter of invitation from your SA outfitter/PH (license no., hunt dates/area, species, firearms for hunting only).
• Flight itinerary.
• If a third party is processing your application: A signed authorization letter
• If you require pre-approval, submit 30-40 days in advance of your trip.

Fees

• Permit is free (SAPS charges no fee).
• Optional meet-and-assist/permit service: typically US $120 (procession only) to $215 (including meet-and-assist service).

Allowed

• Firearms: up to 4 long guns (rifles/shotguns), all should be in different calibers or gauges.
• Ammunition: up to 200 rounds per firearm; only ammo for the declared firearms. Airline rules (≤ 5 kg / 11 lb per passenger) applies.
• Dedicated hunting handguns, subject to prior approval based on a statement explaining your motivation to use them.
• Semi-automatic shotguns, subject to prior approval based on a statement explaining your motivation to use them. 

Not allowed

• Fully automatic firearms and military grade arms.
• Semi-automatic rifles are generally not approved on port-of-entry permits.
• Handguns for self-defense.
• Import of firearms by anyone younger than 21 years of age. 
• Import of two or more firearms in identical calibers or gauges. 

Airport procedure (Johannesburg OR Tambo – JNB)

• Arrivals: Clear Immigration, collect checked luggage; firearms are taken by security to the SAPS Firearms Office.
• SAPS office: Present unsigned SAPS 520, passport, ownership proof, invitation, and itinerary. Officer verifies serials & ammo
• Issue: You sign in the officer’s presence; SAPS issues the Temporary Import Permit (SAPS 525). Keep it with the firearm at all times.
• Departure: Check firearms with your airline, then bring cases to the SAPS office (Departures) for final serial/ammo verification before security.

Transit caveats

• If you transit through South Africa to another destination, with overnight or no interline transfer, you must apply for a permit using the same procedure. Select Form SAPS 520(a) for multiple entries. 
• Process the application at the SAPS office. Build 2–3 hours minimum for firearm formalities on connections through JNB.

Pro tips

• Triple-check that each firearm’s caliber is unique on your list; duplicates are refused.
• All serials on all parts of the weapon must match the application/permit; if one part, e.g. barrel, has a different serial number, be sure to mention it in the application. 
• Keep the originals of all documents on your person as you travel. 
• For more detailed information see SA Firearms Control Act 2000.

Learn more about hunting in South Africa

Tanzania

Tanzania has a temporary import permit system typical for other African countries. Your hunting licenses are issued only after the permit is approved, so apply well in advance; there’s an ammo limit pro caliber, not pro number of weapons (two rifles of the same caliber fall within one ammo limit); ammo will be counted both on arrival and departure, and used rounds will likely be taxed. 

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies for your Temporary Import Permit (TIP) 
• Start about 2 months before travel (permit must be on hand at arrival or guns won’t be released).
• Hunting licenses are issued only after the firearm permit has been approved.

Documents required

• Notarized passport copy (photo & signature pages).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—CBP Form 4457; others—national firearms license/permit (show make, model, caliber, serial).
• Passport-style photos: six for paper submissions, one for online.
• Completed application (via outfitter) listing each firearm and the number of rounds you plan to bring.

Fees

• Government permit fee: US $300 per firearm.
• A tax will be charged on all used rounds on leaving the country.

Allowed

• Firearms: up to 3 rifles plus 1 shotgun (temporary import).
• Ammunition: 200 cartridges per caliber (ammo must match declared firearms). Mind the airline ammo weight limit (≤5 kg/11 lb).
• Minimum calibers: .375 H&H or larger for dangerous game; .240+ for plains game.
• Black powder arms may be used, but airlines won’t accept powder and primers, arrange supplies in-country through your outfitter.

Not allowed

• Handguns 
• Semi-automatic rifles and shotguns.
• Fully automatic weapons.

Airport procedure

• Go through immigration, and proceed to the baggage claim area. Your outfitter’s representative will meet you there with all the documents. 
• With the representative, proceed to the Customs/Firearms Office, where the officers verify serial numbers and count ammo against the permit.
• On departure, meet your rep again for the export permit and final serial number and ammo check. 

Pro tip

• Allow plenty of time at the Dar es Salaam airport for firearms processing on exit.

Learn more about hunting in Tanzania

Uganda

With two rifles per hunter limit and a temporary firearms license requirement, Uganda is within the average for Africa. Declared application processing times are on the short side, but it’s still worthwhile to send all documentation a few weeks in advance. 

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies for your temporary rifle import/export permit.
• Both rifle permit and hunting license must be issued before your arrival.
• Submit your details several weeks in advance of your planned trip (typical processing ~3–7 days once filed).
• The permit will be waiting for you at the airport, and an e-mail copy will be sent to you; print out a couple of copies and have them on you.  

Documents required

• Notarized passport copy (photo/details page).
• Notarized proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—CBP Form 4457; others—national firearms license/permit listing make, model, caliber, serial.
• List of firearms and the amount of ammunition you intend to import. 
• Confirmed flight itinerary.

Fees

• Outfitter handling fees may apply.

Allowed

• Firearms: 2 rifles per hunter.
• Ammunition: no fixed national limit reported. Mind the airline ammo weight limit (≤5 kg/11 lb). 

Not allowed

• Handguns 
• Semi-automatic or fully automatic firearms 
• Suppressors and silencers.

Airport procedure

• Meet your outfitter’s representative or proceed to customs/police with rifles, ammo, and printed copies of the permits.
• Officer verifies serial numbers and checks ammo; you’re issued a Temporary Weapons License valid for your safari. 
• Departure: present rifles to airport police for exit clearance (they collect the permit/license), then check cases with your airline.

Pro tip

• Keep the Temporary Weapons License, as well as several copies, with you at all times.

Zambia

Zambia’s firearms import rules are similar to other African nations, but pay attention to import tax on ammunition, and long processing times.

Who applies & when

• Outfitter applies for your Temporary Firearm Import Permit with Zambia Police using the official application form.
• Permit will be waiting for you at the airport. 
• Start well in advance—common lead time is 2–4 months.

Documents required

• Notarized passport copy (details and signature pages).
• Proof of ownership for each firearm: U.S.—CBP Form 4457; others—national firearms license/permit listing make, model, caliber, serial.
• Completed permit form with your firearm details.

Fees

• Government permit fee: about 50 ZMW.
• Outfitter admin/handling: typically ~US $200 per permit.
• Ammo duty on arrival: about US $2 per cartridge (cash at customs).

Allowed

• Firearms: up to 3 rifles per hunter.
• Ammunition: no fixed country limit.  Mind the airline ammo weight limit (≤5 kg/11 lb).

Not allowed

• Handguns 
• Semi-automatic and fully automatic rifles 
• Military-style firearms.

Airport procedure

• Your outfitter’s representative meets you on arrival, presents the pre-approved permit, and escorts you through customs.
• Officers verify serial numbers, confirm calibers, and assess ammo duty. The rep assists again on departure.

Pro tips

• Mind the ammunition import tax when deciding how much and what caliber to bring. 
• You will need local cash to pay the ammo tax.

Learn more about hunting in Zambia

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe might have some of the most relaxed rules for temporary import of hunting firearms, with on-arrival permit and no limit on the number of weapons. However, the European Union (EU Regulation (EC) No 314/2004), the UK, and Canada prohibit import of any weapons to Zimbabwe, including temporary and for hunting or sporting purposes. European, British, and Canadian airlines will not accept firearms on any direct flight to Zimbabwe. 

Who applies & when

• Hunter applies on arrival at the port of entry.

Documents required

• Passport + copies.
• Proof of ownership for each firearm.
• A letter of invitation or booking confirmation from the outfitter (recommended).

Fees

• No government fee for rifle/shotgun permits issued on arrival.
• Approx. 1,500 USD for handgun permit (need to obtain in advance)

Allowed

• Hunting rifles and shotguns: officially no limit on number of hunting rifles and shotguns.
• Ammunition: 100 rounds per firearm; ammo must match the declared caliber. Mind the airline ammo weight limit (≤5 kg/11 lb).
• Handguns for hunting, but only in certain game areas. A permit from Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife is required.
• Black-powder rifles of .40 caliber and above, but airlines would not accept loose powder and caps, so you will have to obtain them locally.

Not allowed

• Fully automatic and military-style rifles. 
• Non-military design semi-automatic rifles are theoretically possible, but not recommended. 

Airport procedure

• On arrival, complete the temporary import form with an officer; present firearms unloaded in a locked case plus documents.
• Officials verify serial numbers and check ammo; keep the permit with you for the duration of the hunt and for exit.

Pro tips

• It is possible to use European carriers or fly through Europe to Zimbabwe, if you route via South Africa (Johannesburg), and book two separate sets of tickets.  In this case, you must obtain a SAPS 520/520(a) (multiple-entry) permit and personally process firearms at the SAPS Firearms. South Africa may not interline gun cases to Zimbabwe. SA transit rules can effectively limit firearm count, so plan accordingly.

Learn more about hunting in Zimbabwe

Disclaimer.

Information in this post is not  legal advice. Its only intent is to give you a general understanding of processes and requirements for taking a legally owned hunting weapon for a legally run hunting safari in specified African countries. Rules and regulations are subject to change. Make sure to double-check all information in this post from official sources. BookYourHunt.com doesn’t bear any responsibility for any consequences of any action or inaction that follows your reading this post. Unless it convinces you to go hunting to Africa and everything goes great and you have the hunt of your life, then we get all the credit!

Conclusion

As you see, travelling to Africa with your hunting guns is doable. You’ll need a temporary firearms import permit (often arranged by your outfitter), and follow airline rules, which —especially ammo weight (≤5 kg/11 lb) and packaging—can be stricter than country laws. Transit, commonly via South Africa, may require an additional SAPS 520/520(a) permit. Bring proof of ownership (e.g., US CBP Form 4457), ensure serial numbers and ammo counts match your application, and print multiple copies. Start early, confirm details with your outfitter, and you won’t have to rent a rifle onsite.

Armed with this knowledge,

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More on travel with hunting guns

Hunting 101: Travel With Your Rifle or Rent from an Outfitter?

Here’s one important question that worries many new hunters before their first international or long-distance hunting trip: should I bother with all the red tape and bring my own rifle, or simply things and rent one from the guide or outfitter? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option, and give you a set of questions you will need to answer to make the right choice. CONTINUE READING

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