What is a roan antelope?

The roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus) is one of Africa’s largest antelopes, known for its reddish coat, black-and-white facial markings, and long, curved horns.

Is the roan antelope difficult to hunt?

Yes – the roan is an alert and intelligent animal, often found in open terrain. It requires skill, patience, and good stalking techniques to hunt successfully.

What is the best time of year to hunt roan in South Africa?

Roan can be hunted year-round, but the best months are April through September, when the bush is more open and conditions are cooler.

What caliber is recommended for roan hunting?

Calibers such as .30-06, .308, .300 Win Mag, or .338 Win Mag are recommended, paired with premium bonded or monolithic bullets for deep penetration.

Where is the ideal shot placement on a roan antelope?

Broadside heart-lung shots just behind the front shoulder are ideal. For quartering shots, aim through the chest toward the opposite shoulder.

How is a roan trophy judged?

Trophy quality is judged by horn length (25–26 inches and above is excellent), symmetry, mass, and overall animal condition.

Southern Roan

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Roan Antelope Hunting – Power, elegance, and Africa’s hidden gem

The roan antelope is one of Africa’s largest and most spectacular antelopes – yet it remains a hidden treasure among big game hunters. With its muscular build, striking facial mask, and arched horns, the roan offers a hunting experience that’s as visual as it is thrilling. At Side by Side Safaris, we guide you to quality roan bulls in well-managed areas with excellent genetics and ethical hunting practices.

A rare sight – and a trophy of distinction

Closely related to the sable, the roan is lighter in color and more robust in stature. It features a bold black-and-white facial pattern and long, saber-shaped horns that can exceed 30 inches. Roan antelope tend to live in small groups and prefer open bushveld or grasslands where they’re vigilant and hard to approach.

Taking down a mature bull requires focus, experience, and a good understanding of animal behavior – it’s a true African safari challenge.

The hunt – walk, stalk, and strategy

Roan are hunted on foot, using classic walk-and-stalk techniques in gently undulating or open bush terrain. They are alert and respond quickly to pressure, often disappearing before the hunter gets into position. Older bulls are particularly wary and often break away from the group – these are the trophies we pursue.

There’s something timeless about facing off with a mature roan – a feeling of old Africa that few modern hunts can replicate.

Rifle and caliber – stability meets strength

Roan antelope are large-bodied animals, with mature bulls weighing over 280 kg. Recommended calibers include .30-06, .308, .300 Win Mag, or .338 Win Mag. Use bonded or monolithic bullets with controlled expansion to maximize tissue damage and penetration.

The key is to deliver reliable knockdown power while maintaining accuracy at medium ranges – often 80–200 meters.

Shot placement – make it count

A broadside shot placed behind the shoulder in the heart-lung zone is ideal. Avoid shots too far back, as roan are tough animals and can cover significant ground before going down. For quartering angles, aim through the chest toward the offside leg.

Be prepared for a follow-up shot if needed – even well-hit roan bulls may take a moment to fall.

A trophy with strength and soul

Roan antelope offer one of the most beautiful shoulder mounts in all of Africa. The swept-back horns, regal face, and reddish coat create a striking contrast in any trophy room. Though lesser-known than sable or kudu, the roan stands proudly among Africa’s top-tier game animals.

Once you hunt one, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Ready to hunt one of Africa’s most underrated giants?

Roan hunting combines beauty, power, and authentic safari tradition. Get in touch with us today, and let us create a tailor-made hunting experience worthy of this magnificent species.

📩 Get in touch today to discuss options, dates, and trophy potential.

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Facts - Southern Roan

NAME: SOUTHERN ROAN
SCIENTIFIC NAME: HIPPOTRAGUS EQUINUS
WEIGHT MALE: 280 KG
WEIGHT FEMALE: 250 KG
SHOULDER HEIGHT MALE: 1.4 M
SHOULDER HEIGHT FEMALE: 1.3 M
MATING SEASON: THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

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FAQ - Southern Roan

The roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus) is one of Africa’s largest antelopes. It is known for its reddish coat, striking black-and-white facial mask, and long, curved horns. Roan are shy, powerful animals that thrive in open woodland and savanna.
Yes – roan are alert, intelligent, and often inhabit open terrain. They are sensitive to movement and sound, making them a challenging species that requires patience and precise stalking.
Roan can be hunted year-round, but the optimal months are between April and September, when the bush is less dense and the temperatures are cooler.
We recommend calibers such as .30-06, .308, .300 Win Mag, or .338 Win Mag, combined with a premium bonded or monolithic bullet to ensure proper penetration.
Aim for the heart-lung area, just behind the front leg and one-third up the body. For quartering shots, angle toward the opposite shoulder for best results.
Trophy quality is primarily measured by horn length – over 25–26 inches is considered excellent. Symmetry, mass, and the animal’s overall condition also contribute to its value.