Information

Traveling with Rifles or Bows

Bow Hunters

Bow Hunters do not require a temporary import permit for their bow/s into South Africa, BUT do however require a USA Customs Declaration 4457 form for their Bow/s.


Hiring a Rifle?

IF you are hiring a rifle from John X Safaris then ignore the below information, BUT be sure to notify John X Safaris prior to your arrival on safari.


Those hunters traveling to South Africa without their personal rifle/s, wishing to hire a rifle from John X Safaris, can do so on a first come first serve basis. We have a wide selection of rifles available for hire, all fitted with known and proven brands of telescopes. Most calibers have more than one rifle available to hire per caliber, with calibers ranging from 22, 222, 243, 270, 300 Win Mag, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7MM LRM, 28 Nosler, 375 H&H, 416 Rigby. For the bird hunters we have Over & Under 12 Gauge Red Head CZ's or Beretta semi-auto 12 gauge available.


Rifles can be hired @ $200 / per traditional rifle / per safari OR $300 / per long-range rifle/system / per safari and Shotguns @ $50 / per shotgun per shoot / day. Ammo will be charged at cost on the basis of an opened box is a used box.


Hunters traveling with Rifle/s to South Africa

South Africa requires a temporary import/export permit for firearms and ammunition when traveling to South Africa. Firearm Import/Export permits can be issued at both our international ports of entry, Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airports, or applied for before your arrival in South Africa.

Rules & Regulations for the import/export/transit of Firearm/s to/from South Africa


  • You may temporarily import a maximum of four firearms per hunter, but not more than one of the same calibre.

  • ONLY flysafair and SA Airlink allow the transportation of firearms domestically within South Africa. Ensure your domestic flight/s you are booked on indicate it is an flysafair/SA Airlink flight AND NOT a SHARED CARRIER flight. The shared carrier will not honour or permit the carry of firearms. Even if your flight indicates it’s an flysafair/SA Airlink flight, double check it is not a shared carrier flight. Please note there will be an extra baggage charge for both rifle case and ammunition case. Ammunition case to not exceed 5kg/11lbs.

  • Rifles and shotguns will not be accepted as Checked Baggage, unless approved no less than three (3) working days prior to departure through Airlink Reservations Control Tel +27 11 451 7350/ Your Travel Agent. Rifles must be unloaded with the safety catch on, and suitably packed and accompanied by all documents legally required by the countries of departure, destination and any stopovers.

  • You may only bring ammunition applicable to the firearms that you will be carrying.

  • No person under the age of 21 may bring firearm/s into South Africa or apply for a temporary import permit in his / her name.

  • The barrel, frame or action is to be marked with the same serial number.

  • Semi-automatic shotguns for bird hunting or a custom-made handgun/s can be bought into South Africa for hunting purposes only.

  • No self-protection firearm/s allowed.

  • If in transit, permits are required by any passenger spending the night in South Africa while in transit to a third country. The same pre-requisites apply as to obtain the standard temporary import permit.



    • Rules & Regulations for traveling with ammunition for your firearm/s to/from South Africa


  • ALL ammunition you are travelling with, internationally arriving/departing in/out of South Africa and within South Africa / regionally within Southern Africa on SA Airlink/flysafair must be in a separate locked hard metal/plastic ammunition case. (No tapped cardboard boxes allowed) Ammunition is no longer allowed to be checked within checked luggage arriving in South Africa.

  • Ammunition will never be carried in the cabin or flight deck of the aircraft. Ammunition must be packed separately and securely from the firearm case and not in the checked bag onto final destination (Port Elizabeth/Home).

  • Also note a maximum of 200 rounds of ammunition is allowed per firearm/per calibre. Most airlines have a weight limit on ammunition of 5KG/11 LBS, which is approximately 140 rounds of 243 / 120 rounds of 300 Win Mag / 100 rounds of 375. From past experience we would recommend no more than 80 rounds per calibre.

    • We strongly recommend using Air 2000 / Hunters Support to assist you with the firearm import/export process. By sending Air 2000 Hunters Support the required details, they will apply for the required import/export permit on your behalf, meet you at the airport and walk you through customs onto your connecting flight to your final destination.



    For Air 2000 Hunters support services

    Contact them at air2000@global.co.za or Southern African Business Hours # +27 (0) 11 659 26 49.

    Please note Air 2000 Hunters Support does charge a minimal fee for this service. Be sure to double check rates with them at the time of the service.


    When dealing with Air 2000 Hunters Support and acquiring their service/s, be sure to specify if you would like to be met upon international arrival only OR upon arrival and departure into/from South Africa.

    NB: No applications will be accepted by Air 2000 Hunters Support if the lead time is less than 4-6 weeks prior to your arrival in South Africa. If you have any queries or questions, please feel free to email Air 2000 Hunters Support directly on air2000@global.co.za as they will gladly assist.


    IF you would prefer to handle the customs clearing process with rifle/s entirely on your own, then you will require the following documents.

    1. John X Safaris Letter of Invitation – Complete two, the first to be presented to custom officials in Johannesburg, and the second as a spare.

    2. SAPS 520.

    3. Notarized copy of your passport.

    4. Notarized copy of the US Customs form 4457 or Rifle License (Whichever is applicable to proof ownership).

    5. Hard copy of your flight itinerary.


    Links to Assist with the Travel of Rifle/s

  • SAP 520 Application

  • US Customs form 4457

  • John X Safaris Letter of Invitation


    • Justin & Kim Bryngleson
      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
    • Ryan & Seth Allowitz
      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
    • Bryce Nelson
      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
    • Juan Torres
      My first bow trip to Africa ~ What a hunt! I had the experience of a life time. Tiro Chingon.
      Juan Torres
    • Arturo Villegas
      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
    • Tim & Lori Rainwater
      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
    • Jack & Karen Zanin
      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
    • Paul & Amy Wood
      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
    • Brian Matthews
      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
    • Michael Gregory
      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
    • McLean Jones
      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
    • Kody Haverkamp
      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
    • Kirk 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
    • Kacey & Brandi Terry
      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
    • The Goodale’s
      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
    • George Keys
      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
    • Eason Maykus
      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
    • Dale Wilson
      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
    • Cole & Kelsey Watts
      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
    • Clay & Carli Schubert
      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
    • Al & Renee Quast
      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
    • Justin & Kim Bryngleson
      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
    • Ryan & Seth Allowitz
      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
    • Bryce Nelson
      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
    • Juan Torres
      My first bow trip to Africa ~ What a hunt! I had the experience of a life time. Tiro Chingon.
      Juan Torres
    • Arturo Villegas
      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
    • Tim & Lori Rainwater
      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
    • Jack & Karen Zanin
      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
    • Paul & Amy Wood
      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
    • Brian Matthews
      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
    • Michael Gregory
      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
    • McLean Jones
      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
    • Kody Haverkamp
      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
    • Kirk 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
    • Kacey & Brandi Terry
      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
    • The Goodale’s
      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
    • George Keys
      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
    • Eason Maykus
      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
    • Dale Wilson
      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
    • Cole & Kelsey Watts
      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
    • Clay & Carli Schubert
      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
    • Al & Renee Quast
      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