Monterra Safaris

Our next target was the iconic Red Hartebeest, but the Karoo wasn’t making it easy. One afternoon we found ourselves in an electrical storm with lightning striking all around us. Standing in the open with rifles and an aluminium Bog-Pod suddenly didn’t seem like the smartest idea, so we made a rapid retreat to camp!

After the rain cleared, we located the herd we’d been following and spotted several mature bulls feeding on a distant slope. We stalked in, but the herd kept moving, eventually stopping at around 450 metres.

Jim settled prone, made an excellent shot, and dropped a beautiful Red Hartebeest bull. We were so fired up we discussed and agreed that if another bull happened to present himself, that the outfitter and guide would also take one - not seriously thinking that nature would reward us twice… but we were wrong. As we admired the first bull, another mature bull stepped out even farther away. We could not believe it and our outfitter jumped at the opportunity! Two great bulls and a majorly successful day.

After days of rain, lightning, and persistence, the Karoo finally rewarded us with two magnificent Red Hartebeest bulls. A hunt we’ll never forget.

Alfonso had said from the start that if we came across a true trophy impala, there would be no hesitation — we had to take it. Then, along the banks of the Kapong River, he appeared and we knew he was the perfect specimen.

Standing with two other rams just before the rut, this magnificent impala carried everything you hope to find in a mature old ram: stunning horns, perfect symmetry, and the kind of presence that instantly stops you in your tracks. The tension in the air was electric as Alfonso settled in for the shot.

What followed was pure precision. One fantastic shot rang out across the riverbed, and in that moment the stunning ram was ours — an unforgettable trophy and a hunt none of us will soon forget and a great end to a fantastic hunt at Monterra Safaris