So, I had this plan all worked out. I'd go to Africa for the first time on a PG hunt in Namibia in 2006 with Christie's Adventures, then buy myself a buffalo hunt in 2008 for my 40th. The hunt with Christie is booked, the cash to pay for it salted away and I'm saving up for 2008. A simple plan working smoothly. Then came the "Cheapest Buffalo Hunt" thread.

I did the math, my wife pointed out that life is uncertain and one thing led to another. Well, I just got off the phone with Jamie at Safari Trackers. The payment for my hunt arrived Friday so it is official now. I'm going on my first safari at the start of November! Its a 7 day 1x1 in the Selous (K2)with Rungwa Safaris. My father will be along as an observer/photographer. Great to have the old man on one more big adventure.

Kind of a quickie compromise hunt, but it gets me to Africa a few months early and I didn't have to raid the 2008 money to do it. It is also a dream come true and more than that too. The urge to hunt Africa, spurred on by Capstick, Boddington and Corbett (yeah I know, not much on Africa there but...) was a major reason I went back to school. The first year was a bit tough. I actually carried a .375 H&H and .458 WM cartridge in my pocket most days as a reminder of why I was doing it. Now I've got 2 trips to Africa planned and am leaving in 2 days for a paddling trip in the high Arctic (another long time dream) with my wife, who I'd never have met had I not ended up in the career I'm in now. I've been so lucky.

Thanks to all who have helped with this, whether they knew they were helping or not. I've run into a lot of fine ladies and gentlemen on AR.

Dean

Seven days chasing buffalo in the Selous doesn't sound like a compromise to me.

Congratulations and have a great time.

Maki

I've also been thinking a lot lately about taking my father along as an observor/photographer for a buffalo hunt. I think he'd really enjoy that even if he's not doing the shooting. However, I've always wondered how the older guys do with all the walking involved. I've never hunted buff before but you read about how much walking can be involved. Do you know how you're going to handle this part of it? Just curious.

Maki, want to tell you..You will never be the same...Africa keeps calling you back...I did RSA, then Zim, 53 weeks away the Selous 21 days and a full bag...

Mike

"Seven days chasing buffalo in the Selous doesn't sound like a compromise to me."

Only a compromise because I don't have the time or money to stay as long as I'd like. Wait a few years and maybe be able to take a longer trip, or definitely go now on a shorter trip.

"However, I've always wondered how the older guys do with all the walking involved.... Do you know how you're going to handle this part of it?"

Not really. My father is in his early 60's and still fairly fit and active, but has had a heart attack and by-pass surgery. I figure he'll walk till he's had enough, then find a shady spot with a book and a beer. My biggest concern is that he won't be careful enough. He's basically a brave man who long ago came to grips with his mortality. Since he realised he wasn't going to live forever, he's gotten a bit too brave at times. He got a bit rash with some musk ox a few years ago. No harm done, but I'm worried he'll try the same stunt with a buffalo or hippo.

Cheers,
Dean

quote:

Originally posted by maki:
"Seven days chasing buffalo in the Selous doesn't sound like a compromise to me."

Only a compromise because I don't have the time or money to stay as long as I'd like. Wait a few years and maybe be able to take a longer trip, or definitely go now on a shorter trip.

Or both.

quote:

Originally posted by maki:
...I actually carried a .375 H&H and .458 WM cartridge in my pocket most days as a reminder of why I was doing it...

That`s a good one! I did place some photos of african animals on top of my working desk.. It worked as well!
Have a good hunt and best of luck!

Maki,

I believe you made a very good decision. I checked out Christie's and he has a very good reputation. But, a plains game hunt in Namibia doesn't even come close to a buffalo hunt in Tanzania; and, Rungwa has an excellent reputation. The icing is that youir hunting buffalo sooner and with you dad. Way to go!