04 December 2021, 00:14
Singleshot03Traveling in RSA with GUNS two outfitters
Hello Folks, I was wondering if there are any challenges in the following scenario.
I plant to fly in with two rifles into Johannesburg this summer. I plan to hunt with outfitter #1; then get back on a plane in Johannesburg and fly to Port Elizabeth with those guns to hunt with Outfitter #2.
I know it is easier not to bring guns but I have a 404 Jeffery that I want to hunt with and a 6.5 x 55.
Any suggestions?
04 December 2021, 03:23
K EvansIt is very easy to do…simply hire one of the permitting services, Air 2000, RiflePermits or PHASA to obtain your permit prior to arrival, they offer “meet and greet” services, too. Well worth the money. All have pretty good websites. I’ve used Air2000 several times with great satisfaction.
04 December 2021, 04:05
bcapNo issues at all I hunt with 3 outfitters some time and at least 2 on each trip. Just have your permit in place to cover the whole trip plus a day or 2 in case of delayed flights and all is good.
I use henry rifle permit service or do it my self even with no problems.
04 December 2021, 19:32
Singleshot03Gentlemen, thank you for the advice. I wish you a great weekend.
05 December 2021, 03:08
DCS MemberI did the exact reverse by hunting in the EC first, then Limpopo. Once again, use riflepermits.com and Henry will help you out.
05 December 2021, 19:26
Russ GouldBy all means use your own favorite firearms on a hunt. This is a big part of the experience for many, and adding Africa to your rifle's resume makes it a more valuable possession.
In RSA, once you get your "temporary import permit" on arrival, you are free to move about the country with your firearm(s) for the duration of the permit. In theory. In practice, some domestic airlines will not check firearms. Better be sure on that score. And further, firearms are supposed to be stored in a safe when staying at hotels etc. And finally, it's a big risk to leave a firearm unattended in a vehicle or trailer when stopping for meals.
I have never understood the need for assistance by a permitting outfit. If you can read instructions, fill out a form and make some photocopies, you are good to go. In 30 years of traveling to various African countries, not once have I used a permitting service. But then again I am originally South African and not intimidated by local police. I have had more trouble with US-based airlines and TSA than with local authorities in Africa.
05 December 2021, 20:17
Singleshot03Thanks Russ for the advice. When I first went and the only time I brought guns ten years ago and did the permit myself and had no problem. Not sure if things got more complicated since then.
06 December 2021, 06:24
DCS MemberThe guy at riflepermits.com was invaluable when we arrived at Tambo 6 hours late and missed our connection to Port Elizabeth. He had SAA comp our hotel, driver, and rebooked us the next morning.
I hope that is never needed for most trips, but I was sure glad we had him.