I'm planning to go to SCI this year as long as my work schedule doesn't interfere. I'd like to go talk to a few people and book a buffalo hunt for 2020 as my summers are booked until then. Any issue with most safari operators booking hunts that far in advance or would I be better off waiting until next year's show?

I would wait. Things have been changing in Africa daily!!!

I have booked hunts with African outfitters ( Namibia, Zimbabwe ) 2 years in advance with no issues at all. Earlier bookings are advantageous in that booking preferred dates is generally easier with the longer timeline. You may need to pay a deposit to secure dates but can then be less stressed about accumulating the balance of funds required for the total hunt cost.
As to whether you are better off to wait I don't know if anyone could correctly advise on this but reasonably priced late season offers or cancellations at discounted costs do come up if are in a position to act on these.

If you are rigid in the dates that you require and the specific area, possibly. Other than that I would not worry about booking so soon.

+1. I never plan anything 2 years in advance. Hell, I don’t even buy green bananas!

Not much certainly in Africa that far in advance.

quote:

Originally posted by jdollar:
+1. I never plan anything 2 years in advance. Hell, I don’t even buy green bananas!

Unless they are those of the green variety and possibly among the sweetest.

Nothing wrong with that and you would do well to book with a reputable outfitter of which there are many who are recommended on this site.

The advantage is you get pick the time and dates that suit you and something to look forward to over the next 24 months.

I normally ask for a small non refundable first deposit and a guarantee on daily rates but not trophy fees which are dictated by Government.

I’m very spontaneous myself, but I do see the advantages. As Andrew said, there are great outfitters here and plenty of references on AR. Also, if amenable to the outfitter, you could do a prior agreed upon payment plan instead of a chunk of cash all at once. However, things do change quite a bit in the hunting world and especially in Africa.

My two cents?

I take bookings out in advance of two years, as would any other Outfitter.

The guy that has been in business for 10 plus years with a solid reputation is always fully booked in the prime time.

My advice would be this:

Go to the show and chat to as many BUFF hunters as possible. Narrow it down to the country you wish to hunt, then find the guy you CLICK with!

Once you have found this "happy" place, secure a hunt with a small (mine is $500.00) refundable deposit (just like my wise Limey mate said) for two or even three years in advance.

Now every year when you visit your Outfitter/PH, "top up" that deposit. It makes for a nice savings account, keeps you focused, and builds anticipation like nothing.

Good luck, our booth number is #4626 at SCI and we will be offering Buff hunts in three areas in South Africa and our new area in Tanzania!I am besotted with those animals!