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The Best of African Hunting
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HUNT AFRICA
The East Cape
Experience
The East Cape Experience is like no other. It may be the people. The land. The camaraderie around a crackling campfire. The PH and tracker who started out as strangers, but leave you as friends. Or it may be the abundance of game and the sheer variety on offer. It’s the feeling you’re left with to return again.
View AccommodationsLATEST HUNT REPORTS & EXPERIENCES
28th November 2024
28th November 2024
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Do you like it?
26th November 2024
26th November 2024
[…]
Do you like it?
15th November 2024
John X Safaris has once again shown me what a world-class safari experience can be. A professional operation in all respects from the hunting to accommodations along with outstanding meals. The PHs are fun to be with and always willing to share their extensive knowledge. An experience that my sons and I will always fondly remember.
Tom, Daniel & Andrew Kirchmaier
Our annual visit to John X Safaris is like visiting family. We always enjoy our time here hunting, sharing stories, and building lasting memories. Bringing old friends with us on safari and meeting new friends is a highlight of coming to Africa. Here’s to many more!
Tim & Lori Rainwater
Our trip to Africa was indeed a symphony of adventure and camaraderie. Amongst the extraordinary beautiful animals and vast plains, we forged bonds over campfire feasts, savouring the flavours of the land. Amidst the thrill, old friendships were deepened and new ones were created, all united by our shared love for the wild and God’s creatures. Africa will forever have a place in my heart and will bring me back for many future memories.
Steve Perez
We have been blessed to hunt with John X Safaris for almost twenty years and this was the finest hunt yet. Africa was beautiful and her people as warm as ever.
Smith Family
To Carl, Martin, Elliot and the rest of my friends at John X Safaris, the experience you provided exceeded all expectations. The accommodations were fabulous, the food delicious, the scenery majestic, and the hunting was top notch. I can’t wait to come back and bring my family for a future hunt.
Neely Coble
Hunt #9 with John X Safaris was a trip of a lifetime. Every detail was planned and taken care of with the utmost professionalism. I sure appreciate the hard work the entire team puts in to make the trip so wonderful. I will be back soon.
Luther Dietrich
I had a wonderful time at John X Safaris. The staff and service were nothing short of first class. This trip was a lifelong goal of mine and John X Safaris made it worth the wait. The animals here are absolutely amazing and live to be past their prime with the excellent management of John X Safaris. I look forward to my next trip back. Thank you to all who made this trip so unforgettable.
Joshua Powers
Hunting with friends at John X Safaris is an experience second to none. Greg, Carl and the rest of the crew made the trip memorable beyond expectation. The care and thought put into every detail is something every hunter must experience. John X Safaris is excellence defined.
Eason Maykus
This was my 4th hunt with John X Safaris and I can tell you there is no other outfit like them in the world. They understand hospitality and excellence at a level that is hard to comprehend. Every time I visit it feels like family. I can’t wait to return and bring my son’s on their first safari.
Derrick Ratliff
They claim that Disney is the greatest place on earth, I’m here to tell you that they missed the mark by 8,752 miles. Wonderful people and great food. Thank you all for the hospitality and kindness!
David Lambert Sr. & David Lambert Jr.
This was my first African experience and it was incredible. John X Safaris does things the right way. Incredible food, company, and hunting. My PH Martin Neuper is a master of his craft and we had a great time spot and stalking with a bow. I can’t wait to do it again!
Cole Temple
The standard isn’t just set, but it is lived out starting at the top with Carl. Every aspect of your journey will leave you with an experience that creates a memory for a life time. Special thanks to my PH, Rusty. I’m looking forward to our next adventure, brother.
Cody Burks
I have been blessed to hunt all over the world and John X Safaris is the finest hunting operation I have experienced. The infrastructure, the people, the food and of course the hunting are unsurpassed. I told people that Woodlands was likely as close to Heaven as I would ever get. Then I was taken to Heaven, which you call Bankfontein. Wow! This was to be my last trip to Africa, but God willing, I will return!
Charlie Fox
What a trip! The entire team is simply amazing. They have become more than friends over the years. I had the pleasure of meeting some new friends from the US as well. The hunting as per usual was superb. This is a trip of a lifetime which you will find yourself doing more than once in your lifetime!
Tim Rainwater
Carl told me many years ago, "You'll never know what it's like until you have experienced it for yourself". Those words are the only way to describe our amazing trip! Thank you to everyone at John X Safaris for the experience of a lifetime.
Tanner & Karissa Peugnet
Having grown up looking at pictures of my Grandfather and Fathers trips to Africa in the family photo albums I have always dreamed of going one day myself. I could not have dreamt of a better first safari thanks to John X Safaris! I had such an amazing time that I already booked my second safari before my first was even over!
Ryan Warhola
This was our first trip to John X Safaris and South Africa and we had an unbelievable experience. We met new friends and got to have an amazing adventure with existing friends. Definitely a trip of a lifetime!
Justin & Allison Strube
Another amazing safari with Clayton, Carl and all of the amazing people at John X Safaris. I’m always blown away by the Eastern Cape’s beauty and quality of game. This year was no different and likely my favourite safari to date. Until next year my friends!
John Grobe
Amazing experience! Outstanding staff, service and quality of animals exceeded all my expectations. Wonderful life experience that will always be remembered!
Jason Lore
This was our second hunt with John X Safaris, PH Greg and Tracker Bless. It was a successful week of hunting, friendship, and fun. We will be back again for round number three! Lekka boet! Until next time!
Cody & Amy Looka
What an incredible week it has been in Africa with John X Safaris. Thank you to each and every one who worked hard ensuring this was one of the greatest hunts I have ever been on. Until next time my friends.
Cates Keith
Another awesome safari with John X Safaris. This outfit just gets better and better!
Craig Boddington
Great experience with amazing staff that will always be remembered and dreamed of repeating!
Kara Chase
Great hunt, great place, great friends! Thank you for yet another wonderful safari.
Brett Nelson
The John X Safaris staff are simply incredible. From the hunting to the accommodations. I just don’t see how it can be topped. This was my 2nd trip, I know there will be a 3rd.
Jeff Walls
So much more than just a hunting trip. The food, people and animals exceeded every expectation and I cannot wait to do it again. Baie Dankie!
Andrew Grobe
John X Safaris came highly recommended to us, so we had high expectations for this hunt. Martin and company far exceeded those in every way imaginable. It was a trip of a lifetime! Thanks again.
Justin & Kim Bryngleson
An amazing experience! From touchdown to the last goodbye, everything about this safari was exceptional. Wonderful lodge and staff, outstanding food and unparalleled service! We are already looking forward to our return visit.
Ryan & Seth Allowitz
This was my first trip to Africa and I certainly hope that it won’t be my last. The hunting was outstanding with challenging hikes and stalks as we looked to achieve a high standard of game hunted. The food and fellowship in the evenings are all part of the many stories and memories I’ll take home with me as I long to return once again. Until next time!
Bryce Nelson
My first bow trip to Africa ~ What a hunt! I had the experience of a life time. Tiro Chingon.
Juan Torres
This year I returned on safari with John X Safaris once again. Covid had delayed us, but we made it back. My trip this second time was just as memorable as my first. When will I return? ...Soon.
Arturo Villegas
The African experience is truly an amazing one and one I never thought I would embark on annually. The friendships, hunts and excursions were beyond belief. Our PH, Greg, provided us with an unforgettable time. I’m so glad to have been able to team up with John X Safaris as they are the best of the best.
Tim & Lori Rainwater
Everything was perfect. The hunt, accommodations, food and most importantly the amazing staff. The memories made here will last a lifetime! Thank you so very much.
Jack & Karen Zanin
This was our first hunt with John X Safaris and it’s been fun. We’ve loved Woodlands and the staff have been amazing. The customer service here has been nothing short of outstanding catering to all our needs each and every day. The hunting has been incredible with our team of Martin and Thandi who worked together seamlessly and shared many great experiences. Our time here has been a welcomed break from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life. We are very much looking forward to a return trip in the future.
Paul & Amy Wood
It’s not often you get two adventures in one trip. Being the first to go on safari after Covid and the 2-day odyssey getting there was something. It was only topped by the unreal adventure of hunting Woodlands Safari Estate and the entire John X Crew. Incredible people, an amazing experience. I will be coming back for more!
Brian Matthews
Spectacular doesn't cover it. The food was consistently excellent, and the service was over the top. Every member of your team couldn't do enough for us. The quality of the hunting was excellent, but the service and attention to detail made it the best lodge experience we've ever had. You have a fantastic family business and the culture you have created is enviable. Thanks so much for welcoming my family into the John X family and I look forward to many more hunts together over the years.
Michael Gregory
I travelled from Texas in search of something indescribable, in search of a sensation. I found such a sensation with John X Safaris. The rugged beauty of the land and the abundance of challenging world class game was second only to the hospitality of the staff and the amenities at Woodlands Safari Estate. I thank you dearly for the experience and camaraderie. The sensation of South Africa and John X Safaris is now part of me, and for that I am truly humbled and forever grateful.
McLean Jones
What an epic adventure. First time here and definitely not my last! Could not be more impressed by John X Safaris. Stix put me on several great animals and was a pleasure to hunt with. I am looking forward to our next adventure.
Kody Haverkamp
There are three words that come to mind after this amazing adventure. Integrity, Professionalism and Excellence. All three of which hold true from the amazing first-class lodge staff, the PH's, and trackers and skinners. This was a hunt of a lifetime made possible by my PH, Greg and Tracker, Bless. I look forward to our next adventure, sooner rather than later. See you all again soon!
Kirk Haverkamp
John X Safaris is an extraordinary place that offers much more than hunting. It's a place for connecting with friends and family, amazing adventures, unique cultural experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime. South Africa will forever have a piece of our hearts and we look forward to coming back.
Kacey & Brandi Terry
What an awesome life experience! Jay had such a wonderful hunting experience with a great PH, Martin and Tracker, Thandi. The magnificence of the animals was beyond belief. Thanks to the staff at both the southern and northern camps for making my stay as a non-hunter a memorable one. We are fondly looking forward to a return trip in the future.
The Goodale’s
My entire life I have dreamed of going on an African safari. I took the plunge and booked my trip of a lifetime with John X Safaris. The expertise by my PH, Dave, and Tracker, Shoota, in finding world class animals in the vast landscape was nothing short of unbelievable. I have hunted my entire life but have placed this hunt at the top of my list.
George Keys
The team at John X Safaris once again provided a lifelong memory. Personal touches in every detail during my time at camp cannot be topped. The hunting, food, lodging and scenery make the stay perfect. Most importantly the friends made with John X Safaris will last a lifetime. I look forward to making this part of my future with many good times to come. Thanks again for a 5-star experience.
Eason Maykus
My first trip to South Africa after many hunts in North America. Honestly the most exciting and adventurous hunting experience of my life! Hunting with Ed and meeting all the great people at John X Safaris has been a blast. First class accommodations, food, animals and customer service.
Dale Wilson
Our time in the Eastern Cape has been a dream. It will be a trip to reflect on for years to come. Dave, Shoota, and Dusty were top notch, and we consider ourselves blessed to have had the opportunity to hunt with them. Their knowledge, skill, work ethic, and dedication to the hunt were outstanding. It was amazing to share Kelsey's first big game kill with our new friends!
Cole & Kelsey Watts
The John X Safaris motto reads, "May you enter as guests and leave as friends". Carl, Trish, Lee, PH's and the rest of the John X Safaris crew went above and beyond to deliver on this motto. Our time spent with them was full of laughter and smiles filled with new memories created each day. Thank you, John X Safaris, for a truly amazing experience.
Clay & Carli Schubert
It's hard to put into words - this safari has exceeded our expectations beyond anything we could have dreamed. The scenery, the animals, the opportunities, the challenges, the emotions of a successful hunt, the camaraderie with our PH, Greg, and our tracker, Bless, it was all exceptional. Africa and John X Safaris will forever have a place in our memories and in our hearts.
Al & Renee Quast
John X Safaris has once again shown me what a world-class safari experience can be. A professional operation in all respects from the hunting to accommodations along with outstanding meals. The PHs are fun to be with and always willing to share their extensive knowledge. An experience that my sons and I will always fondly remember.
Tom, Daniel & Andrew Kirchmaier
Our annual visit to John X Safaris is like visiting family. We always enjoy our time here hunting, sharing stories, and building lasting memories. Bringing old friends with us on safari and meeting new friends is a highlight of coming to Africa. Here’s to many more!
Tim & Lori Rainwater
Our trip to Africa was indeed a symphony of adventure and camaraderie. Amongst the extraordinary beautiful animals and vast plains, we forged bonds over campfire feasts, savouring the flavours of the land. Amidst the thrill, old friendships were deepened and new ones were created, all united by our shared love for the wild and God’s creatures. Africa will forever have a place in my heart and will bring me back for many future memories.
Steve Perez
We have been blessed to hunt with John X Safaris for almost twenty years and this was the finest hunt yet. Africa was beautiful and her people as warm as ever.
Smith Family
To Carl, Martin, Elliot and the rest of my friends at John X Safaris, the experience you provided exceeded all expectations. The accommodations were fabulous, the food delicious, the scenery majestic, and the hunting was top notch. I can’t wait to come back and bring my family for a future hunt.
Neely Coble
Hunt #9 with John X Safaris was a trip of a lifetime. Every detail was planned and taken care of with the utmost professionalism. I sure appreciate the hard work the entire team puts in to make the trip so wonderful. I will be back soon.
Luther Dietrich
I had a wonderful time at John X Safaris. The staff and service were nothing short of first class. This trip was a lifelong goal of mine and John X Safaris made it worth the wait. The animals here are absolutely amazing and live to be past their prime with the excellent management of John X Safaris. I look forward to my next trip back. Thank you to all who made this trip so unforgettable.
Joshua Powers
Hunting with friends at John X Safaris is an experience second to none. Greg, Carl and the rest of the crew made the trip memorable beyond expectation. The care and thought put into every detail is something every hunter must experience. John X Safaris is excellence defined.
Eason Maykus
This was my 4th hunt with John X Safaris and I can tell you there is no other outfit like them in the world. They understand hospitality and excellence at a level that is hard to comprehend. Every time I visit it feels like family. I can’t wait to return and bring my son’s on their first safari.
Derrick Ratliff
They claim that Disney is the greatest place on earth, I’m here to tell you that they missed the mark by 8,752 miles. Wonderful people and great food. Thank you all for the hospitality and kindness!
David Lambert Sr. & David Lambert Jr.
This was my first African experience and it was incredible. John X Safaris does things the right way. Incredible food, company, and hunting. My PH Martin Neuper is a master of his craft and we had a great time spot and stalking with a bow. I can’t wait to do it again!
Cole Temple
The standard isn’t just set, but it is lived out starting at the top with Carl. Every aspect of your journey will leave you with an experience that creates a memory for a life time. Special thanks to my PH, Rusty. I’m looking forward to our next adventure, brother.
Cody Burks
I have been blessed to hunt all over the world and John X Safaris is the finest hunting operation I have experienced. The infrastructure, the people, the food and of course the hunting are unsurpassed. I told people that Woodlands was likely as close to Heaven as I would ever get. Then I was taken to Heaven, which you call Bankfontein. Wow! This was to be my last trip to Africa, but God willing, I will return!
Charlie Fox
What a trip! The entire team is simply amazing. They have become more than friends over the years. I had the pleasure of meeting some new friends from the US as well. The hunting as per usual was superb. This is a trip of a lifetime which you will find yourself doing more than once in your lifetime!
Tim Rainwater
Carl told me many years ago, "You'll never know what it's like until you have experienced it for yourself". Those words are the only way to describe our amazing trip! Thank you to everyone at John X Safaris for the experience of a lifetime.
Tanner & Karissa Peugnet
Having grown up looking at pictures of my Grandfather and Fathers trips to Africa in the family photo albums I have always dreamed of going one day myself. I could not have dreamt of a better first safari thanks to John X Safaris! I had such an amazing time that I already booked my second safari before my first was even over!
Ryan Warhola
This was our first trip to John X Safaris and South Africa and we had an unbelievable experience. We met new friends and got to have an amazing adventure with existing friends. Definitely a trip of a lifetime!
Justin & Allison Strube
Another amazing safari with Clayton, Carl and all of the amazing people at John X Safaris. I’m always blown away by the Eastern Cape’s beauty and quality of game. This year was no different and likely my favourite safari to date. Until next year my friends!
John Grobe
Amazing experience! Outstanding staff, service and quality of animals exceeded all my expectations. Wonderful life experience that will always be remembered!
Jason Lore
This was our second hunt with John X Safaris, PH Greg and Tracker Bless. It was a successful week of hunting, friendship, and fun. We will be back again for round number three! Lekka boet! Until next time!
Cody & Amy Looka
What an incredible week it has been in Africa with John X Safaris. Thank you to each and every one who worked hard ensuring this was one of the greatest hunts I have ever been on. Until next time my friends.
Cates Keith
Another awesome safari with John X Safaris. This outfit just gets better and better!
Craig Boddington
Great experience with amazing staff that will always be remembered and dreamed of repeating!
Kara Chase
Great hunt, great place, great friends! Thank you for yet another wonderful safari.
Brett Nelson
The John X Safaris staff are simply incredible. From the hunting to the accommodations. I just don’t see how it can be topped. This was my 2nd trip, I know there will be a 3rd.
Jeff Walls
So much more than just a hunting trip. The food, people and animals exceeded every expectation and I cannot wait to do it again. Baie Dankie!
Andrew Grobe
John X Safaris came highly recommended to us, so we had high expectations for this hunt. Martin and company far exceeded those in every way imaginable. It was a trip of a lifetime! Thanks again.
Justin & Kim Bryngleson
An amazing experience! From touchdown to the last goodbye, everything about this safari was exceptional. Wonderful lodge and staff, outstanding food and unparalleled service! We are already looking forward to our return visit.
Ryan & Seth Allowitz
This was my first trip to Africa and I certainly hope that it won’t be my last. The hunting was outstanding with challenging hikes and stalks as we looked to achieve a high standard of game hunted. The food and fellowship in the evenings are all part of the many stories and memories I’ll take home with me as I long to return once again. Until next time!
Bryce Nelson
My first bow trip to Africa ~ What a hunt! I had the experience of a life time. Tiro Chingon.
Juan Torres
This year I returned on safari with John X Safaris once again. Covid had delayed us, but we made it back. My trip this second time was just as memorable as my first. When will I return? ...Soon.
Arturo Villegas
The African experience is truly an amazing one and one I never thought I would embark on annually. The friendships, hunts and excursions were beyond belief. Our PH, Greg, provided us with an unforgettable time. I’m so glad to have been able to team up with John X Safaris as they are the best of the best.
Tim & Lori Rainwater
Everything was perfect. The hunt, accommodations, food and most importantly the amazing staff. The memories made here will last a lifetime! Thank you so very much.
Jack & Karen Zanin
This was our first hunt with John X Safaris and it’s been fun. We’ve loved Woodlands and the staff have been amazing. The customer service here has been nothing short of outstanding catering to all our needs each and every day. The hunting has been incredible with our team of Martin and Thandi who worked together seamlessly and shared many great experiences. Our time here has been a welcomed break from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life. We are very much looking forward to a return trip in the future.
Paul & Amy Wood
It’s not often you get two adventures in one trip. Being the first to go on safari after Covid and the 2-day odyssey getting there was something. It was only topped by the unreal adventure of hunting Woodlands Safari Estate and the entire John X Crew. Incredible people, an amazing experience. I will be coming back for more!
Brian Matthews
Spectacular doesn't cover it. The food was consistently excellent, and the service was over the top. Every member of your team couldn't do enough for us. The quality of the hunting was excellent, but the service and attention to detail made it the best lodge experience we've ever had. You have a fantastic family business and the culture you have created is enviable. Thanks so much for welcoming my family into the John X family and I look forward to many more hunts together over the years.
Michael Gregory
I travelled from Texas in search of something indescribable, in search of a sensation. I found such a sensation with John X Safaris. The rugged beauty of the land and the abundance of challenging world class game was second only to the hospitality of the staff and the amenities at Woodlands Safari Estate. I thank you dearly for the experience and camaraderie. The sensation of South Africa and John X Safaris is now part of me, and for that I am truly humbled and forever grateful.
McLean Jones
What an epic adventure. First time here and definitely not my last! Could not be more impressed by John X Safaris. Stix put me on several great animals and was a pleasure to hunt with. I am looking forward to our next adventure.
Kody Haverkamp
There are three words that come to mind after this amazing adventure. Integrity, Professionalism and Excellence. All three of which hold true from the amazing first-class lodge staff, the PH's, and trackers and skinners. This was a hunt of a lifetime made possible by my PH, Greg and Tracker, Bless. I look forward to our next adventure, sooner rather than later. See you all again soon!
Kirk Haverkamp
John X Safaris is an extraordinary place that offers much more than hunting. It's a place for connecting with friends and family, amazing adventures, unique cultural experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime. South Africa will forever have a piece of our hearts and we look forward to coming back.
Kacey & Brandi Terry
What an awesome life experience! Jay had such a wonderful hunting experience with a great PH, Martin and Tracker, Thandi. The magnificence of the animals was beyond belief. Thanks to the staff at both the southern and northern camps for making my stay as a non-hunter a memorable one. We are fondly looking forward to a return trip in the future.
The Goodale’s
My entire life I have dreamed of going on an African safari. I took the plunge and booked my trip of a lifetime with John X Safaris. The expertise by my PH, Dave, and Tracker, Shoota, in finding world class animals in the vast landscape was nothing short of unbelievable. I have hunted my entire life but have placed this hunt at the top of my list.
George Keys
The team at John X Safaris once again provided a lifelong memory. Personal touches in every detail during my time at camp cannot be topped. The hunting, food, lodging and scenery make the stay perfect. Most importantly the friends made with John X Safaris will last a lifetime. I look forward to making this part of my future with many good times to come. Thanks again for a 5-star experience.
Eason Maykus
My first trip to South Africa after many hunts in North America. Honestly the most exciting and adventurous hunting experience of my life! Hunting with Ed and meeting all the great people at John X Safaris has been a blast. First class accommodations, food, animals and customer service.
Dale Wilson
Our time in the Eastern Cape has been a dream. It will be a trip to reflect on for years to come. Dave, Shoota, and Dusty were top notch, and we consider ourselves blessed to have had the opportunity to hunt with them. Their knowledge, skill, work ethic, and dedication to the hunt were outstanding. It was amazing to share Kelsey's first big game kill with our new friends!
Cole & Kelsey Watts
The John X Safaris motto reads, "May you enter as guests and leave as friends". Carl, Trish, Lee, PH's and the rest of the John X Safaris crew went above and beyond to deliver on this motto. Our time spent with them was full of laughter and smiles filled with new memories created each day. Thank you, John X Safaris, for a truly amazing experience.
Clay & Carli Schubert
It's hard to put into words - this safari has exceeded our expectations beyond anything we could have dreamed. The scenery, the animals, the opportunities, the challenges, the emotions of a successful hunt, the camaraderie with our PH, Greg, and our tracker, Bless, it was all exceptional. Africa and John X Safaris will forever have a place in our memories and in our hearts.
Al & Renee Quast