Botswana is a destination that epitomizes wild Africa, offering some of the most thrilling Elephant hunting experiences. NG9, located near the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, is one of the country’s premier hunting concessions. In this article, I recount my role as a cameraman during a 5-day adventure, where our clients successfully hunted two magnificent elephants, each with tusks exceeding 50 pounds.

From plains game hunting in South Africa to navigating Botswana’s untamed wilderness, this was a journey of challenge, skill, and unforgettable moments. An exclusive video capturing the highlights of this remarkable hunt accompanies this post.

Arrival in NG9: From South Africa to the Wilds of Botswana

Our journey began in Upington, South Africa, where our clients wrapped up a plains game hunting expedition. From there, we flew into Maun, Botswana’s bustling safari gateway, where the adventure escalated. A helicopter flight transported us into the heart of NG9, offering stunning aerial views of the Okavango Delta’s intricate waterways and the vast expanse of the concession.

Our camp was set up beneath towering trees, designed to blend seamlessly into the environment. Built for efficiency and minimal impact, it would be dismantled and packed away at the end of the season. The anticipation was palpable as we settled into the camp, ready for the days ahead.

The First Elephant: A Triumph on Day Two

The first elephant hunt unfolded on the second day. After a rigorous morning of tracking, guided by the insights of our skilled spotters, we encountered a bull grazing in a mopane woodland. His imposing frame and tusks, each exceeding 50 pounds, left no doubt that this was a worthy target.

The team moved with precision, ensuring the client had a clear shot. As the cameraman, I positioned myself to capture the moment’s intensity—from the team’s calm coordination to the final, decisive shot. The bull’s tusks were measured at 53 pounds each, marking a successful and memorable start to the expedition.

The Second Elephant: A Grand Finale

This year, Botswana was scorched. By the fourth day, the pressure to find a second bull was mounting. Spotters reported activity near a remote waterhole, and we set out early to investigate. The terrain was challenging, with dense bush and muddy crossings testing the team’s stamina and resolve.

Finally, we encountered our second bull, a magnificent specimen with tusks weighing approximately 57 pounds each. The hunt was exhilarating as the bull moved through thick vegetation, requiring careful tracking and patience. The client’s skilful shot brought the hunt to a dramatic conclusion, cementing the success of our adventure.

Life in Camp: Stories Under the Stars

Life in our temporary camp was both rustic and rewarding. Hearty meals provided much-needed energy for the demanding days. Evenings were spent around a crackling fire, sharing stories and reflecting on the day’s events under a canopy of stars.

The camaraderie among the team, from the clients and guides to the dedicated spotters, was a highlight. As the cameraman, I cherished the opportunity to capture the hunts and the quiet, reflective moments that defined the experience.

Conservation and Ethical Hunting in Botswana

Elephant hunting in Botswana is a subject of intense debate but is also a crucial component of wildlife conservation. In regulated concessions like NG9, hunting is strictly managed to maintain ecological balance and support local communities. Revenue from hunting funds anti-poaching initiatives and provides vital resources for conservation efforts.

Our clients approached each hunt with respect and responsibility, ensuring every shot was ethical and every part of the harvested animal was utilized. This balance of tradition, respect, and sustainability underscores the importance of ethical hunting in preserving Botswana’s wildlife heritage.

Closing Thoughts

This 5-day elephant hunting expedition in Botswana’s NG9 was a testament to the skill, patience, and respect required for such an endeavour. As the cameraman, it was an unparalleled experience to document the thrill of the hunts and the profound connection between hunters and the wilderness.

The accompanying video showcases the breathtaking landscapes, the adrenaline-fueled moments, and the dedication of everyone involved. Botswana’s NG9 remains a premier destination for those seeking an ethical and conservation-focused hunting experience.