Upland Bird & Guineafowl Shooting in South Africa
Upland & Guineafowl Shooting in South Africa – Safari Bound
Why Upland Bird Hunting in SA Is Unique
South Africa’s upland game bird hunting — guineafowl, francolin (spurfowl/partridge-type birds), quail — offers a different rhythm from waterfowl or pigeon shooting. You’ll find yourself in open grasslands, farmland, or mixed bushveld — often with pointing dogs flushing birds for a flush-and-shoot style hunt.
For hunters who enjoy the challenge and rhythm of upland bird hunting, it’s a true classic in South Africa.
Why Upland Bird Hunting in SA Is Unique
South Africa’s upland game bird hunting — guineafowl, francolin (spurfowl/partridge-type birds), quail — offers a different rhythm from waterfowl or pigeon shooting. You’ll find yourself in open grasslands, farmland, or mixed bushveld — often with pointing dogs flushing birds for a flush-and-shoot style hunt.
For hunters who enjoy the challenge and rhythm of upland bird hunting, it’s a true classic in South Africa.
Common Upland Species
Helmeted Guineafowl — a hallmark of SA upland hunting.
Various Francolin/Spurfowl species (often called “partridge/old-world partridge” analogues) — often hunted over dogs.
Quail and other small upland birds (depending on concession and season)
Best Seasons & Typical Timing
- Upland hunts (guineafowl, francolin, quail) typically run May through August (winter and early spring) in many provinces.
- In some regions walk-up or driven hunts may extend slightly depending on rainfall, crop cycles and provincial regulations — always confirm when booking.
Hunting Methods
Walk-up hunts with pointing dogs: Dogs flush birds from cover and alert the hunter — offers a classic, traditional upland hunting experience.
Driven/Beater hunts (especially for guineafowl): A line of beaters may drive flocks over waiting guns — ideal for groups and delivering action.
Mixed upland + other hunts: Many upland packages can be combined with waterfowl or dove/pigeon shooting depending on season and bird availability.
Typical Upland Shooting Package
3–6 day upland shooting safari
Daily hunts (morning + optional afternoon), over dogs or driven beats
Comfortable lodge or farmhouse accommodation, meals, guide, transport
Option to combine with waterfowl or dove/pigeon shooting (if season and bag limits allow)
Why Upland Shooting with Safari Bound
Our selected upland concessions maximize bird densities and habitat — ensuring good chances even later in the season.
Experienced guides with knowledge of bird habits, dogs (or beaters) management, and ethical upland shoots.
We offer flexibility — from easy walk-ups to full driven shoots depending on group size and preferences.
An unforgettable African hunting experience — combining sport, landscape, and wildlife.
Wingshooting Accommodation
Francolin Creek - Free State
For guests who enjoy river views, open skies, and wide-open hunting terrain, Francolin Creek offers a unique setting just as inviting as the Free State uplands.
Settlers - Bella Bella
Our Settlers, Bela-Bela hunting area offers an array of bushveld accommodation options. Choose to truly unplug in the remote campsite or glamp it up in the Tented Camp
Abrahamshof - Free State
Scenic hills with bushveld and large grass plains presents the hunter with the best of both worlds and a top class hunting experience, making it ideal for Wingshooting and Big Game hunting
Francolin Creek - Free State
For guests who enjoy river views, open skies, and wide-open hunting terrain, Francolin Creek offers a unique setting just as inviting as the Free State uplands.
Settlers - Bella Bella Ares
Our Settlers, Bela-Bela hunting area offers an array of bushveld accommodation options. Choose to truly unplug in the remote campsite or glamp it up in the Tented Camp
Abrahamshof - Free State
Scenic hills with bushveld and large grass plains presents the hunter with the best of both worlds and a top class hunting experience, making it ideal for Wingshooting and Big Game hunting
What’s Included
Professional hunting guide
Transport to hunting locations
Use of bird dogs (where applicable)
Field preparation of birds
Access to a variety of habitats
Shotgun rental (optional)
Planning Your Trip
We tailor every wingshooting safari to your schedule, species preference, and experience level. Hunts can be combined with plains game safaris or stand-alone as a dedicated bird hunting trip.
Let us craft your dream wingshooting safari in Africa. Whether you’re after fast-flying pigeons or a variety of waterfowl, we’ll deliver an unforgettable hunting adventure.
Accommodation
Todd Lutman and Safari Bound Southern Africa, offer luxury accommodation that blends true country living with modern comforts, set in various beautiful, game and bird rich South African provinces.
Bird Species
South Africa offers a variety of bird species as well as sensational landscapes that ensures you the very best in South African wingshooting on exclusive concessions located throughout South Africa.
Gallery
Our gallery features some images and video of Safari Bound Southern Africa’s previous bird hunting safaris as well as Gundog training by Todd Lutman himself, for your viewing pleasure.
Accommodation
Todd Lutman and Safari Bound Southern Africa, offer luxury accommodation that blends true country living with modern comforts, set in various beautiful, game and bird rich South African provinces.
Bird Species
South Africa offers a variety of bird species as well as sensational landscapes that ensures you the very best in South African wingshooting on exclusive concessions located throughout South Africa.
Gallery
Our gallery features some images and video of Safari Bound Southern Africa’s previous bird hunting safaris as well as Gundog training by Todd Lutman himself, for your viewing pleasure.
General Bird Hunting Information
Wing Shooting with Safari Bound Southern Africa
Southern Africa is home to some of the finest wing shooting in the world. With its incredible diversity of habitats — from windswept highlands and arid plains to lush wetlands and river valleys — the region offers one of the largest varieties of gamebird species found anywhere in Africa.
Whether you are a collector of rare bird species or a passionate wing shooter seeking the ultimate hunting experience, Safari Bound Southern Africa provides access to premier bird hunting areas designed to satisfy every enthusiast.
Our wing shooting safaris deliver exceptional results year after year, combining thrilling action with breathtaking scenery and professional guidance from experienced hunting teams.
Prime Hunting Seasons
Bird hunting seasons vary by province, but the prime months generally run from March through September. Early in the season, hunters can enjoy some of the most exhilarating pigeon and dove shooting in the world — true “hot-barrel” action over crop fields such as sunflower and maize.
Variety of Bird Species
The diversity of birdlife across Southern Africa ensures a rich and varied shooting experience. In the northern regions, hunters will encounter large flocks of Helmeted Guinea Fowl, while the mountainous Eastern Cape (above 6,000 feet) offers seven species of Francolin, including the challenging and highly prized Greywing, hunted over well-trained pointing dogs.
For waterfowl enthusiasts, more than 12 species await — including the impressive Spurwing Goose, often hunted from blinds or over decoys. Meanwhile, those seeking high-volume shooting will find endless excitement among vast flocks of pigeons and doves feeding on agricultural lands.
Custom Safari Experiences
Every wing shooting safari with Safari Bound Southern Africa is tailored to meet your preferences. In addition to exceptional bird hunting, itineraries can include photographic safaris, sightseeing excursions, or plains game hunting — making the adventure ideal for both hunters and non-hunting companions.
While emphasis is placed on variety over quantity, early-season hunts frequently produce impressive bags and unforgettable field experiences.
Guns, Groups & Ammunition
We recommend 12-gauge shotguns, as ammunition is widely available and ideal for the range of species encountered.
Although safaris are most effective with groups of four or more hunters, we are happy to cater to smaller, exclusive groups seeking a more personalized adventure.
Book Your Safari
Embark on a bird hunting experience that blends tradition, challenge, and conservation in one unforgettable African adventure.
Contact Safari Bound Southern Africa today to begin planning your ultimate wing shooting safari.
Terms and Conditions
Deposit
We confirm a Safari on receipt of a deposit calculated at 50% of the total daily rate of the hunt, the balance of the calculated daily rates is due 6 months prior to the commencement of your Safari. (plains game only)
Please contact Safari Bound Southern Africa regarding deposit/payment when a Safari is booked.
Trophy Fees and Additional Upgrades and Costs
That being said, all trophy fees and additional upgrades or costs will be based on the year that the hunt takes place unless otherwise stated in your Safari contract.
Cancellation Policy
Payment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wing shooting in South Africa?
What types of birds can be hunted through wing shooting in South Africa?
South Africa is home to a diverse range of bird species, and many of them are available for wing shooting. Some popular game birds include the guinea fowl, francolin, quail, and various species of duck and geese.
Is wing shooting in South Africa legal?
Yes, wing shooting in South Africa is legal as long as hunters obtain the necessary permits and follow the regulations set by the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries.
What is the best time of year for wing shooting in South Africa?
The best time of year for wing shooting in South Africa is typically from May to August, which is the winter season. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, and many bird species are in season and available for hunting.
Are there any recommended locations for wing shooting in South Africa?
Yes, there are several recommended locations for wing shooting in South Africa, including game farms, hunting lodges, and private reserves. Some popular destinations include the Limpopo Province, Eastern Cape, and the Kalahari region. It is important to research and choose a reputable outfitter to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.
Contact Todd Lutman
We will keep your information private and only use it to provide you with requested information and/or quotations