General Information
Location
East Cape and Karoo Safaris are based on the Kamala Game Reserve which is situated 15 kms (8 miles) west of Somerset East, on the road towards Pearston. Somerset East in turn is situated 150 kms (80 miles) north of Port Elizabeth. Both Somerset East and Port Elizabeth lie in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Click here for a map
Topography and Vegetation
The landscape consists of a range of mountains, thick riverine bushveldt, and open veldt plains. The enormous cliff faces make magnificent back drops to this truly spectacular piece of Africa. Click here for the Tree List.
Mammal and Bird Lists
Together with the presence of 13 km of river and the associated riverine bushveldt, Kamala provides the ideal habitat for a wide range of animal species and a truly natural hunting experience.
Click for the Mammal List or the Bird List.
Climate
The best months for hunting are from April through to the end of
September; these are our cooler winter months. Daytime temperatures are
reasonably warm (up to 18oC/ 65oF), with nights being colder (sometimes
as low as -4oF / 25oC), although temperatures usually remain above 0oC /
32oF.
Rainfall occurs mainly in summer and averages around 750mm (30 ins) per
annum.
Air 2000 - Hunters Support Service
Air2000
is the Hunters Support Service in South Africa who can arrange air
charter, hotel bookings, transfers to and from hotels, guest lodges and
major airports, sightseeing tours, shopping trips and
most importantly a meet
and greet service for incoming hunters, where your are met directly off
your flight as the new firearms regulations for the temporary
import/export/in transit permits are in effect. They
pre-arrange all the necessary paperwork to enable the hunter to pass
through customs as quick as possible.
You can visit their website at
www.hunterssupport.com.
Liability and insurance
Please note that while East Cape and Karoo Safaris will be cautious and will ensure safety at all times of the clients and there possessions, the risk and insurance is to be covered by the client. We accept no liability for accidents, injuries, illness or loss or damage whatsoever.
Medical Facilities
Good medical facilities are available in Somerset East which is 15 minutes drive from the reserve. There are at least 4 private medical practitioners and a hospital.
Emergency evacuation to Port Elizabeth - by helicopter or plane can be arranged at short notice for any clients that may require specialised medical attention.
General Safari Information
The best duration for a successful Safari is 10 days or longer. Over this time period we usually manage 10 - 15 species. The hunting takes place on the Kamala Game Reserve and due to the wide variety of vegetation, an abundant selection of animals are present.
Temporary Importing of Firearms
You are required to complete the SAP 520 form when applying for the temporary importation of firearms. Download the SAPS 520 form here. Instructions on how to complete the SAPS 520 form can be downloaded here
Instructions on Completing the Form
- Use black ink on the form.
- Leave the form unsigned until finalised in front of a police officer.
- The following documents must accompany the SAP 520 form:
- Passport
- Return airline ticket
- Proof of ownership
Firearm licenses, documentary proof etc. For USA citizens an officially stamped Customs Declaration Form 4457, is essential.- Proof of export
Note: Clients must obtain documentation for the legal export of firearms from an official government institution (police or customs).
This must be written in English and state the following:It is hereby certified that the owner of the firearm(s) M (state particulars) with calibre (state calbre), serial number (state the serial number) and type (state type of weapon) is hereby authorised to temporarily export the above firearm(s) from country (state country)."
- Invitation letter from the hunting outfitter
This letter must be written on an official letterhead of the hunting outfitter/company and conform with certain specifications.
Note: Firearms will be physically inspected to ensure that the serial number(s) match those of the licenses (proof of ownership) and the application form. Ammunition will also be inspected.
