Africa Trip Leader
Mark Butcher
A fifth-generation African, Mark “Butch” Butcher’s passion for wildlife conservation began early, when he joined Zimbabwe’s former Department of National Parks. After graduating from South Africa’s Rhodes University with a degree in zoology and botany, Butch joined the Forestry Commission as Provincial Wildlife Officer, patrolling and protecting a huge area of Hwange’s indigenous forest and its remarkable wildlife—his knowledge of this great park is simply phenomenal. A superb safari guide, Butch holds the highly coveted Zimbabwe Professional Guide's License and was a winner of Guardian Travel’s prestigious Ethical award for 2014. Deeply committed to wildlife conservation and the surrounding communities, Butch has been at the forefront of the most innovative conservation programs in the country, involving villagers in the protection of wildlife, and ensuring that they benefit from safaris. Endlessly energetic, hugely entertaining, and limitless in his knowledge of Africa’s wildlife, Butch is a force of nature and an absolute delight to travel with.
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Client Testimonials
Of the 8 trips that I have taken with Wilderness Travel, 'Butch' was off the charts for leadership, knowledge, attention to the needs of each guest, and always with heartfelt genuineness. Loved his stories and sense of humor as well!
Barb C.
Evergreen, CO
The Great Elephant Migration
Mark was a fabulous guide. He was incredibly knowledgable and passionate about the animals and Zimbabwe in general. Could not imagine a better guide to have had on this trip.
Becky A.
Thousand Oaks, CA
Zimbabwe!
Thanks to Mark's vast experience with and knowledge of Zimbabwe, we saw wild dogs on the run and a lion dragging a recent kill. We appreciated his commitment to the local communities and his passion for the country.
Deborah S.
Hermosa Beach, CA
Zimbabwe!
We loved spending time with Butch. He was an absolute treasure on every level.
Glenda B.
West Chester, PA
Zimbabwe!
Butch shared his knowledge, passion, and vision of Zimbabwe effectively and made the trip a joy. He found special places for photography and I will forever remember the elephants in the sunset and the marvel of them approaching us in the blind at a water hole.
Larry M.
Louisville, KY
Zimbabwe!
Mark's personal commitment and dedication to the animals, the community, and the country is deep and awe-inspiring. I really enjoyed his slide presentation, every conversation was fascinating, and he's fun, too. It became clear that Wilderness Travel shares this activism and has a commitment to a quality experience.
Lynn C.
Washingtonville, NY
The Great Elephant Migration
Mark made this trip as amazing as it was. His knowledge and commitment to the people, animals, and environment are incredible.
Mary J.
Arlington Heights, IL
A Vision for Wildlife: Wild Zimbabwe
Butch is a wealth of most interesting information. He was intuitive as to our needs, was an incredible animal spotter, was passionate about the lifestyle of Zimbabians, working towards improving the safety of animals, encouraging the growth of education and healthcare, caring about the people. So very glad we went!
Peggy H.
Empire, CO
Zimbabwe!
One of the best! Professional as well as personable.
Sonia V.
Suffolk, VA
Zimbabwe!
Butch is what every adventure travel guide should aspire to be. Endlessly informative, entertaining and engaging, witty, and more. He is a role model of a responsible, visionary human being putting great energy into making for a better world—his world—Zimbabwe.
Steve F.
Hermosa Beach, CA
Zimbabwe!
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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!