Few hunters are as synonymous with African adventure as Craig Boddington. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel, world-renowned writer, veteran outdoor journalist, and one of the most respected figures in international hunting, Craig has spent a lifetime exploring the wildest corners of the globe. His books, magazine columns, and television productions have shaped generations of sportsmen and his legacy in the Zambeze Delta is unmatched.

This season marked a powerful milestone: Craig’s 20th safari with Zambeze Delta Safaris, returning once again to the vast and game-rich wilderness of Coutada 11. Adding to the occasion, Craig’s birthday was a couple of days ago, celebrated in the place where so many of his greatest African stories have begun.

A Friendship Forged in Wild Africa

One of the cornerstones of Craig’s long history in the Delta is his deep friendship with Mark Haldane. What started decades ago has grown into a bond built on trust, respect, and countless shared experiences in the field. It’s a friendship that means the world to Mark and is cherished by the entire Zambeze Delta Safaris team.

A Safari Guided by Experience, Skill & Precision

This season, Craig hunted alongside PH Poen van Zyl, one of Zambeze Delta Safaris’ most capable and respected Professional Hunters. Poen brings a calm, confident style to the field  a PH known for his excellent tracking sense, sharp judgment, and steady leadership on both plains game and dangerous game hunts.

Together, Poen and Craig made a formidable team.

Craig carried two remarkable rifles — a .450/577 Nitro Express and a lever-action .308 both perfectly suited for the close, instinctive hunting the Delta is known for.

A Magnificent Livingstone Eland

A clean shot on a superb Livingstone eland bull set the tone for the safari a classic hunt handled beautifully by both Craig and Poen.

The Running Bushbuck Proof of a Marksman

One of the biggest moments was Craig’s flawless shot on a running bushbuck, a shot few hunters attempt and even fewer make. Poen read the moment perfectly, and Craig executed with mastery.

A Big Warthog, a Nyala Bull, and the Iconic Buffalo

The team went on to take:
• a heavy-tusked warthog,
• a classic shaped Nyala bull, and
• an old Dagga Boy. Buffalo, the species that shaped so much of Craig’s hunting career.

With well over 100 Cape buffalo hunted in his lifetime, Craig brought experience to the moment.

A Raffle Winner’s Dream Safari

Joining the hunt was Jim Billingsley, who drew the safari through the Sheep Foundation raffle. Hunting in Coutada 11 and sharing a camp with Craig Boddington, Jim was guided by one of our old hands , Julian Moller.

A Storyteller, a Conservationist, and a Friend of ZDS

Craig’s influence extends well beyond the field. He has written for some of the most respected hunting publications including Petersen’s Hunting, Guns & Ammo, and Safari Times  giving hunters around the world a thoughtful voice on safari ethics, conservation, and adventure.

He also leads CBEO TV – Craig Boddington Endorsed Outfitters, showcasing the finest hunting operations worldwide. Zambeze Delta Safaris is honored to be among them.

Twenty Hunts, a Birthday, and a Legacy of Friendship

Craig’s 20th safari with Zambeze Delta Safaris is not just a number. It represents decades of trust, loyalty, and shared vision  and the deep friendships that grow only in the hunting camps of Africa.

We were honored to celebrate another birthday with him in Coutada 11.