Our Species

Eland

Overview

Eland are Africa’s largest antelope, weighing up to 900 kilograms and standing as tall as 1.7 metres at the shoulder.
Their gentle disposition and enormous size make them prized by hunters and admired by naturalists alike. Nick Bowker Hunting offers fair‑chase eland hunts in rugged hills and savanna. Despite their bulk, eland can trot for long distances and jump over two‑metre fences with ease. Both sexes grow spiral horns, though bulls have thicker bases and a pronounced dewlap. A successful eland hunt delivers an impressive trophy and a large supply of quality venison.
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Pricing & Packages

Trophy fee
From US $3500
For a mature eland bull or cow.
Combination hunts fee
From US $7000
Eland can be added to plains game hunts when combined with kudu, waterbuck and wildebeest.
Cull hunts fee
POR
Prices are lower for management animals and can include limited meat harvesting.

Hunting in South Africa

Eland roam widely across semi‑arid plains, woodlands and mountain slopes.
Bulls are solitary or in bachelor groups; cows and calves form large herds. Due to their size and calm nature, eland may watch a hunter’s approach, then trot off at the last moment. Nick Bowker Hunting guides search for fresh tracks at waterholes and feeding areas. They then stalk patiently, using terrain to close distance. Because eland are so large, hunters must be prepared for a second follow‑up shot.

Trophy Criteria & Scoring

Eland horns are spiral and vary between sexes.
Bulls’ horns are thick at the base and corkscrew tightly, while cows’ horns are thinner and longer. The SCI minimum for Cape Eland is 77 points, calculated by horn length plus circumference. Rowland Ward records entries must exceed 33 inches in length. Bull horns often measure between 30 and 33 inches.

Shot Placement & Caliber Recommendations

Aim one third up from the shoulder, directly behind the front leg.
Breaking the shoulder and reaching the lungs is vital to anchor these massive animals. Recommended rifles are at least 7 mm or .300 Win Mag, though .338 or .375 calibres offer additional stopping power. Nick Bowker Hunting supplies suppressed .300 Win Mag rifles loaded with premium bullets.

Male vs Female

Both sexes carry horns.
Bulls are larger and develop a significant dewlap beneath the throat; their horns are thicker and shorter than those of cows. Cows have longer, slimmer horns and lighter coats. Bulls tend to darken with age, and older males display a tuft of hair on the forehead called a mop.

MALE

FEMALE

Fascinating Facts

AFRICAN HUNTING GUIDE
1
Eland are able to conserve water by allowing their body temperature to rise during the day, minimising perspiration.
2
They produce a clicking sound as they walk, caused by the tendons in their legs, which helps herd members stay in contact.
3
Eland milk is rich in fat and protein and has been investigated as a potential commercial product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expect to pay around $3 500 for a trophy eland, with reduced rates for cows or management animals.
Hunts are available year‑round. Cooler months are preferred for easier tracking and comfortable conditions.
Aim behind the shoulder one third up the body to break both shoulders and reach the lungs.
Aim behind the shoulder one third up the body to break both shoulders and reach the lungs.
Yes, but bulls’ horns are thicker and shorter, while cows’ horns are longer and slimmer.

Ready to Hunt?

Ready to plan your Eland hunt? Nick Bowker Hunting can help you design a safari that matches your goals and budget. Contact us to discuss dates, packages and any additional species you might like to pursue.
BOOK YOUR SAFARI HUNT TODAY