What Our Hunters Have To Say
Scott Peterson
Utah, USA
“When I was first introduced to Roland, I told him I planned on hunting in Africa often and that I only wanted to pursue impressive, world-class animals. I have now hunted with Roland Mahne and Stirling Safaris three times, and they have consistently honored that request – I’ve returned home each time with only the highest-quality trophies.
On my most recent hunt, I took an impressive leopard, a large hippo, and a huge crocodile in the limited time I had available. What I truly appreciate about Roland is how well connected he is – he seems to know everyone. If the animals I’m after aren’t on his wonderful Kalahari property, he arranges for us to hunt wherever necessary to ensure I have the best possible opportunities for the species I’m pursuing.
Stirling Safaris is a world-class operation, and I would recommend them to any serious hunter. Roland, his family, and the entire Stirling team have become great friends, and I look forward to returning to hunt with them again as soon as I can fit it into my schedule.”
Stephen Swarner
Florida, USA
“Trip of a Lifetime at Stirling Safaris!
Our two weeks at Stirling Safaris in South Africa were truly unforgettable. Every single day was an adventure filled with excitement, beauty, and memories we’ll cherish forever. The PHs were nothing short of amazing, not just guides, but people who quickly became like family. Their dedication, skill, and passion made this trip something far beyond what we ever imagined. The trackers also did an incredible job, and their knowledge of the land and animals was second to none.
One of the most incredible moments came as I was trying to complete my “wildebeest slam.” I was missing the golden wildebeest, and on the very last morning – just hours before our plane was set to depart – the PHs suggested one final hunt. The night before, I had actually dreamed of finally getting that elusive golden wildebeest we had been tracking for over two weeks. Roland and Francois mentioned they had been trying to get him for over a year. It became our mission. And against all odds, we succeeded – with just 15 minutes to spare before heading to the airport. It was one of the most thrilling and emotional moments of my hunting life.
Beyond the hunting, Stirling Safaris made sure this trip was perfect for both of us. My wife, Brittney, enjoyed her own share of adventure and relaxation, with romantic getaway time and wonderful spa and massage experiences. The personal chef, deserves a special mention – his food was absolutely incredible, and he made sure I gained 5 pounds with his delicious cooking!
Words will never truly capture just how amazing these two weeks were. Stirling Safaris delivered not only a hunt of a lifetime but also memories that will last forever. We cannot recommend them enough.”
Bryan Barton
Kentucky, USA
“After 14 years of African hunting and multiplesafaris in South Africa I have enjoyed 3 safaris with Roland Mahne at Stirling and several other concessions he has exclusive access to.
I find that Roland works with the client to achieve the goals he wishes and doesn’t pressure them to shoot immature animals. He believes in fair chase hunting and works very hard to find the trophy the client is looking for and he manages his concessions to achieve exceptional animals to pursue in the proper age class.
After all my South African safaris I have personally harvested the best trophies of my life with Roland including sable, Limpopo bushbuck, cape eland, impala, kudu, lion, cape buffalo and mountain reedbuck.
Therefore, I would highly recommend that anyone that is looking for the hunt of a lifetime to consider Stirling Safaris first. Contact Roland if you would like to talk to and/or email me.”
Tina Turner
Alabama, USA
“My recent hunting trip with Stirling Safaris, led by Roland Mahne, was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I arrived, I was met with the warmth and friendliness of the staff, who went above and beyond to ensure every detail of my stay was perfect. Their hospitality was unmatched, making me feel completely at home in the heart of South Africa.
The facilities at Stirling Safaris were outstanding. The spacious rooms, each with a private bathroom and shower, offered the perfect retreat after a day of hunting. The large, welcoming dining and entertaining area was ideal for gathering, with the outdoor boma providing a quintessential African experience under the stars.
The food was absolutely over the top, prepared by a talented local chef who showcased the best of South African cuisine, often featuring the game we hunted. Every meal was a culinary delight, adding a memorable layer to the entire experience.
Roland Mahne’s expertise and dedication to the sport were evident throughout the trip. His property is home to an incredible variety of mature and record-quality animals, including Kudu, Red Hartebeest, Impalas, Zebras, Warthogs, Wildebeest, Blesbok, Steinbok, Duikers, Nyala, Waterbuck, Sables, Bushbuck, Gemsbok, and more. The quality and diversity of the game made every hunt exhilarating.
Roland’s trackers are some of the best I’ve encountered in my six trips to Africa. Their skills, combined with Roland’s knowledge and leadership, ensured a successful and enjoyable hunt. If you’re looking for record-worthy animals and a team that knows how to deliver a world-class hunting experience, this is the place to be.
Stirling Safaris with Roland Mahne offers more than just a hunt—it’s an unforgettable adventure. From the friendly staff and exquisite cuisine to the exceptional accommodations and incredible hunting opportunities, every aspect of this trip exceeded my expectations. If you’re considering your next African hunt, I highly recommend Stirling Safaris. It’s an experience that will leave you with memories and trophies to cherish for alifetime.”
Wes Davis
Tennessee, USA
“Hands down hunting trip of a lifetime!
From the lodging to incredible PH’s. If you truly enjoy the challenging parts of hunting having to work for the perfect animal while trying to get the perfect shot Stirling Safaris is the place to go! It is truly incredible to see the staff work hard to put you on the animals you want from the tracking to setting you up for the shot! I will definitely be going back! Roland and staff – thank you so much for a wonderful experience!”
Sterrick & Stacey Morgan
Alabama, USA
“Roland, family & staff.
Thank you for showing me the time of my life. We laughed often and harvested phenomenal animals.
Me and my wife are forever grateful to meet such wonderful people and new mates.
We will be back.”
Ricky Drew
Minnesota, USA
“What a great safari! Roland is the real deal! Great guy, great staff, and the quality of animals, amazing! Made many new friendships that will last forever. If you are looking to experience hunting in Africa, he is your guy!
You will not be disappointed.”
Jeff Cramblit
Alabama, USA
“An amazing experience, fantastic people, awesome animals, and incredible support staff. Like a new family half a world away. Thanks for the friendship.
PS: Best food I’ve ever eaten!”
Jake & Makayla Davis
Florida, USA
“Thank you for an amazing trip. I learned a lot about hunting in the short time I was here, and I’m forever grateful. We can’t wait to come see you again.
Until next time.”
Chad Henneke
Pennsylvania, USA
“It can only be said that our safari experience with Roland was amazing and more than we expected. We chose to go with Roland based on recommendations from a friend who had been to Africa multiple times and highly recommended Stirling Safaris. In the end, we could not have chosen a better Professional Hunter as Roland is atop-notch hunter and guide.
Once we set up the hunt, Roland kept in constant contact with us throughout the year leading up to the safari. This was above and beyond as he would call late at night his time just to make sure we had everything we needed for the trip. Once we arrived, his personal service walked us through the airport and took care of the gun retrieving process. This experience was flawless.
The actual hunting was the best I have ever seen. I have to admit that Roland told me NO on so many animals, as he has very high standards, this resulted in us harvesting high end trophies. My wife, who has never hunted in her life, joined me in this lifelong dream of a hunt and she enjoyed herself immensely. She took thousands of pictures and videos and was able to get the true safari experience. My wife has both knees replaced and has had two backfusions, so she has physical limitations. Roland was aware of her abilities and took care of her the entire trip. In the end, Roland was able to put her on a huge Kudu and she harvested her first animal ever –in Africa – in a dress and pink tennis shoes! What a memory as we have the pictures of the Kudu before and after. An absolute experience of a lifetime.
The accommodations were very nice and the food was great. We were able to tailor the food choices to what we liked as well as partaking in what the chef provided with some of the best meals I have had. The nights around the fire recounting the experience of the day, discussing the next days plans and most importantly the open conversations about life.
All this being said, Roland treated us like family. His entire family (Mom, Dad, Brother, Wife etc) all came and spent time with us. This was not an experience where I was just a client or a paycheck. They sincerely wanted us to have a great experience and took the time to get to know us at a human level that only family would do. After my experience I now have a new friend for life as Roland and his family will always be in my thoughts and prayers. I can’t wait to go back and spend time with my friend and of course go on another world class hunting trip.”
Brett & Taylor Barton
Kentucky, USA
“My wife and I had an opportunity to go on our first African safari. This was something that was never really on our radar of trips to take, but within 2 days I was already trying to plan our next trip out there! Every single moment of the trip was absolutely perfect! I could have never dreamed of anything better.
The moment we arrived we were greeted with open arms by Roland and his family. They went above and beyond to accommodate all of our wants and needs. I’ve never felt more at home in a foreign country. The staff and atmosphere were beyond spectacular, and the hunting was incredible!
The quality of animals was beyond anything I could have expected. They are very selective of each specific animal hunted and practice 100% true conservation. Our PH’s are masters of their craft. Every move they make is calculated in order to put us in the perfect position for success!
I’m still amazed at just how they do it so comfortably. The food was magnificent! Hands down the best meals I’ve ever had! (We’re still waiting on Danie’scookbook!) The laughs around the campfire and the shoulder massages are unmatched (LOL)! The memories and bonds we made here will last a lifetime. The Kalahari will forever hold a special place in our hearts and we could not recommend Stirling Safaris more!
Thank you all for everything, we can’t wait to see you again!”
Jeff Gill
Alabama, USA
“Going on safari has always been a bucket list for me. After going to Stirling Safaris all I can think about is going back! Roland and his staff treat you like royalty. Everyone is professional, kind and gracious. The food is unbelievable.The rooms are immaculate and cleaned daily.
Roland goes above and beyond to make sure every hunter has the experience of a lifetime!”
Roger Avery
Mississippi, USA
“Stirling Safaris is located in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. Its beauty is only matched by the quality of the trophies to be hunted within its borders.
You will be guided by Roland Mahne or one of his capable professional PH’s. They all bring a level of enthusiasm to their jobs rarely seen in todays world. Top this off with world class meals and exceptional service from the wait staff and you have an experience you will never forget.
Thank you Roland to you and your staff for providing that experience to me and my friends. We will always cherish these memories.”
Kenny Watson
With the exception of Roland at Stirling Safaris all made you feel like a client. With Roland and his staff you were friends immediately. They welcomed you into the camp, which has great accommodation, food is second to none, the service in the field and in camp is truly the best I’ve ever been a part of.
Roland has tremendous animals and knows the concessions well. His trackers are very professional and are worthy to watch as they work.
The hunting is some of the best I’ve ever been on but the sunsets, views, dinners with friends and the relaxing atmosphere knowing everything is taken care of during your time from landing to getting back on the plane.
I highly recommend Stirling Safaris!
Great people! Great experience! Trip of a lifetime!”
Bruce Small
Mississippi, USA
“Listen to me people, if you want the ultimate bucket list adventure, you need to take the time to head for the Kalahari and live a dream.
I’ve hunted most of my life and had a lot of wonderful trips and experiences, but this trip was the trip of a lifetime. You will see things you never see anywhere else in the world.
You spend time around a fire with people that will soon become part of your family and you will never forget this.
I will always remember Roland and his staff.
Thanks Roland! Can’t wait to see you guys soon.”
Bruce Martin
Alabama, USA
“This was my first safari/hunting trip to Africa. It has been a lifetime desire/goal of mine to hunt there. I chose Stirling Safaris based on strong recommendations from numerous trusted and experienced friends I’ve met through the Alabama Chapter of SCI.
What I was blessed to experience with Roland and his team far exceeded my expectations- “in Spades”! As I reflect and try to understand “why” it was truly so awesome, I asked myself, “what was it, that made it so unbelievably awesome?” Was it:
- The incredible beauty and peace of the Kalahari? (Which I loved and needed!)
- The incredible variety and abundance of totally free ranging African game? (non-fenced – totally free range Africa)
- The 5 star accommodations and food/drinks?
- The complete professionalism and skill of this PH operation?
- That all my goals were accomplished?
- The MANY amazing hunts and stalks – HUNTING?
As I reflect further I realize that all of these things were definite factors, but that the joy and adventure I experienced was really all about “who I did it with”, and “how we did it.”
And that’s all about Roland Mahne. Roland is absolutely the seasoned Pros Pro that I’d hoped for, but he is so much more than that. He is a genuine, happy, hearty, soul whose love/passion for hunting (and life) possibly exceeds my own!
The moment we agreed on this safari, It was as if two blood brothers had just embarked on an amazing adventure together – both 100% committed to “it” and “each other”. Roland’s passion, honesty, humility, PH skill, determination, adaptability, sense of humor, and genuine joy for nature and the hunt made it a dream experience for me. I love to hunt! Roland and Africa reminded me just how much I really do, and how much I always have!
As we got further into the two week safari, I realized that while Stirling Safaris is a “business” that Roland owns and operates, that his “Core Competency” is not about running a business. It’s about a genuine, 100% focus on the hunt, our hunting goals, hunting hard, hunting well and properly, harvesting only trophy game, and giving up everything possible, for us both, to achieve our goals on the hunt.
And we had a BLAST together! Seriously, Roland seemed as happy or happier than me when we were able to take game! And he finds and judges game so well! And he WOULD NOT let me shoot anything that wasn’t a legitimate world class trophy. And I was totally fine with that. That’s what I wanted. And that’s what he does! To that point, everything we harvested made SCI record book (topped with three Gold and three Silver trophies). Wow!
I remember when I first spoke with Roland on the phone while planning this hunt he said; “Bruce, come to South Africa and we’ll make some amazing memories!” Boy! Was he right about that! Roland is a true “Gem” doing and loving what he was put on earth to do. Hunting with him was an amazing blessing for me and without a doubt one of the best and most memorable experiences I’ve ever had in my life!”
Greg & Melissa Stanaland
Arkansas, USA
“Leaving the states and heading to another country that’s halfway around the world is nothing short of intimidating. The fear of not knowing anyone, being vulnerable, and basically putting your life in someone else’s hands can cause some serious anxiety! Our first trip to South Africa was a whirlwind of emotion from the time we left the states. However, we had no idea the calibre of people we were about to meet that would subdue all those fears. Roland quickly became like a long lost brother and eased every fear we had going into this new experience. We quickly realized this was a first class operation with top notch staff and accommodations along with exceptional animals. The Stirling team literally handled everything and provided a true South African experience like no other! We went from the fear of the unknown to trying to figure out how we could live there! The Mahne family has truly become part of our family.
Flashing forward to 2022 after several trips to Stirling I can guarantee Roland and his team will do absolutely everything possible to make your dreams come true and give you and adventure like no other!”
Scott Suell
Alabama, USA
“Best safari experience anyone could dream of! Roland and his awesome staff go the extra mile to make sure you’re comfortable in your own private room and experience the best hunt that South Africa has to offer. The food is absolutely to die for!
Second trip with Stirling Safaris recently and I intend on going again.”
Don & Paulette Sprouse
Alabama, USA
“My wife and I hunted with Stirling Safaris in February 2020. I chose them for a safari for my 50th birthday celebration. As this was my 3rd trip to Africa, but first time in South Africa, I knew what to expect. However, what Roland was able to offer in terms of quality game selection, hunting land, accommodations and friendship clearly surpassed my expectations. The accommodation and camp are great, with new, private suites and very comfortable furnishings. The meals are what you would expect from a 5 star dining restaurant, not a camp in the African bush. You will not be disappointed. The camp atmosphere was everything I had hoped for with a nice fire each evening to recap the day in the field and discuss a plan for the next morning. It doesn’t matter if this is your 1st time to Africa or your 5th time, Stirling Safaris will be an unforgettable experience on the dark continent!”
Rusty McCombs
Alabama, USA
“I have been fortunate enough to make multiple hunting expeditions in Africa and during those hunts I have taken to the field with 13 different PHs. One quickly learns that the most important aspect of the safari is not the region that you hunt or the game that you pursue. It is the relationship between the hunter and the PH that overwhelmingly defines the quality of the trip.
Roland is by far the best PH that I have been exposed to in the course of my journeys. His jovial friendliness and passion for the hunt is contagious and it will leave you with an enjoyable experience of a lifetime.”
Brett Vana
Alaska, USA
“What can I truly say about my month-long safari with Stirling Safaris & Roland Mahne?
WOW!
A hunt of a lifetime but more importantly with a lifelong friend! Roland and his family as well as his staff truly take care of you as soon as you step off the airplane in Johannesburg until it is time to head back to the airport for the return flight.
The South African cuisine & atmosphere they share with you immediately is second to none! Whether you’re laying out at the pool, having a braai, having a drink under the beautiful South African sky by a camel-thorn-wood-fire, the experience is first class. Now to the hunting! The animals on the multiple concessions they hunt from South Africa, Botswana, etc. are truly amazing. Roland is so specific in searching for the right trophies for his clients. He is not a PH who just lets you shoot anything. He thinks of the conservation of the animals first. He looks for mature trophies and does things in a truly ethical way.
The best part about it is he can cater to any type of client. Clients in search of Plains Games or those in search of Big 5 or Dangerous Game. The choice is yours. Know this: once you hunt with Stirling Safaris & Roland Mahne you will keep going back and back and back again!
Once the African bug is in you and you meet Roland, his family and his staff, you will truly find your second home or your home away from home!”

