Zander Osmers safaris is a family owned business that started in 1982. Since then one of the best in South-Africa. Our location is outstanding bordering the famous Kruger National Park with the whole 5 five roaming our hunting grounds. Our hunting grounds are simply the best because of our location and the size as we hunt 212,000 acres of wilderness.
Plains game and other common game species in abundance on the Nature Reserve include baboon, blue wildebeest, bushbuck, bushpig, civet, grey duiker, eland, elephant, genet, giraffe, grysbuck, hyena, impala, jackal, klipspringer, kudu, leopard, lion, caracal, nyala, ostrich, reedbuck, rhino, sable, steenbuck, warthog, waterbuck and zebra.
between the towns of Gravelotte and Mica, north of Nelspruit. Proclaimed as a conservancy in 2003, this Game Reserve is a partnership between neighboring families who have pooled former cattle land together to preserve and sustain the biodiversity of the region in the heart of the bushveld; characterized by six different veld types and a rich variety of 34 animal species, including the Big Five. Zander Osmers Safari’s have to date, secured the exclusive hunting rights on this Game Reserve for the past 17 years.
The area within which the reserve is situated is perhaps best known for its indigenous Sable Antelope herds. It is close to the Murchison Range and the mineral ore deposits of Phalaborwa, which are amongst the largest in the world.
Camps in the reserve remain unfenced, which can occasionally result in an unannounced encounter as animals wander through the camp sites, which only adds to excitement of the bush experience! Expect sightings of baboon, zebra, giraffe, caracal, bushbaby (if you enjoy a night drive), spring hare, jackal, honey badger, mongoose, hyrax, wildebeest and any number of antelope, to name but a few.
The MPUMALANGA Province boasts large areas of ranch land comprising flat open plains as well as mountainous country reaching 6500 feet above sea level. Over 20 species of game occur – from the elusive Vaal Rhebok to the majestic Eland. Because of the wide open plains, long range shooting is required. Because of the varied habitat and size of the areas, one can expect to go out in a different direction each day and great distances may need to be covered by vehicle in order to collect all of the species occurring here. All visitors must be aware that it can get very cold in winter. This concession is 1-hour drive from the main lodge.
If any region in South Africa is known for world class dangerous game hunting it has to be the Lowveld of the old Eastern Transvaal, known as Mpumalamga today. This was the destination of choice for hunters for any of the Big 5. The Klaserie Nature Reserves form part of a 6-million-acre open wildlife system with no internal fences which is teaming with massive herds of Buffalo and Elephant, prides of Lions, Hippos, Rhino and a variety of antelope species. This region boasts one of the highest densities of Leopard in Africa.
The main concession consisting of 75 000 Acres of continuous are one the only concessions in South-Africa that you can hunt the big five and all the plains game in the wild and top class trophy’s.
It is our highest priority at Zander Osmers Safari’s to provide a true African hunting experience that not only meets, but exceeds our valued guest’s expectations. Hunts are conducted under the strict and personal supervision of our experienced licensed professional hunters with a full entourage of skilled native trackers and hunting assistants on hand at all times. Additional transportation and full taxidermy services are available to complete the experience.
The ecological integrity of the reserves is a priority to the management teams and both reserves are first and foremost dedicated conservation areas where limited, controlled and sustainable hunting contributes immensely to their management budgets as well as Rhino protection.
Bow hunting are mostly conducted in pit blinds over water holes and also pop-up blinds over natural waters. minimum poundage required are 45LBS for plains game and 70 on Buffalo. Please make sure you go check out our pit blinds on the site.
Hunting takes place all year round, but the optimal season is from March to the end of October. This time period lends itself to milder day temperatures and more active wildlife. Winter months are from April to September with cold mornings and evenings. Clients are advised to bring safari clothing, comfortable but rugged walking shoes, hats and sunglasses. A warm jacket is essential for late night bonfires and early morning breakfasts.
Recommended hunting rifles range from 270 to 470 NE for bush conditions. A variety of rifles and ammunition is available on site; however a detailed breakdown of the required equipment as well as an itinerary list will be communicated to guests by the supervising professional hunter prior to your visit.
The length of the safari is entirely dependent on the number and type of wildlife being hunted, although a general average of 8 days is required for a Big Five Hunt.
The thatched lodge is able to comfortably sleep 12 guests in 6 rooms with amenities which include full bathrooms, dining and sitting areas, a swimming pool, an open lapa and fireside areas as well as a generously stocked bar. Free Wifi services also included. Laundry services everyday included.
Zander Osmers Safaris caters for your needs a list of meals and drinks are send to you on booking so you choose what you or your group prefers and we will make it happen. We are one of a few that caters for wives and children while you are on the hunt.
We do not mix different groups of hunters if you book a hunt with us you will be the only hunter in our lodge and also the only hunter on the 75,000 Acres concession.
Zander Osmers Safari also has access to a dedicated Air Charter Service which allows us to transport guests directly to and from the ranch from any airport destination in South Africa.
Catch a connecting charter directly from your international arrival airport and avoid the need for costly stay overs and further delays. We are equipped to provide an end to end service for baggage handling, ticketing and transfers to and from your international arrival airport. Our access to a variety of aircraft with seating and luggage capacity to accommodate groups of between 2 and 20 guests ensure that we can cater for your every convenience when accessing our lodge.
The lodge is a 4 hour drive from OR Thambo International Airport in Johannesburg,
There are two local airports that flights can be connected too from OR Thambo International airport Hoedspruit (Eastgate) or Phalaborwa, both of which are a 30 minute drive from the lodge. Transfers to and from these airports will be arranged.