At Mission Tour and Travel, we often speak of Amboseli as the “Land of Giants.” Today, that land feels a little quieter, and the horizon a little emptier. It is with heavy hearts that we join the global conservation community in mourning the passing of Craig, one of Africa’s last and most iconic “Super Tuskers.”
Craig passed away peacefully of natural causes on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, at the age of 54. For over five decades, he was the living embodiment of the majesty we invite our travelers to witness.
A Life of Quiet Dignity: Craig the Gentle Giant
Born in 1972, Craig lived a long and remarkable life. In a world where many of his kind have been lost to poaching or conflict, Craig stood as a symbol of resilience. He was a “Super Tusker”—a rare designation for elephants whose tusks are so large they touch the ground, often weighing over 100 pounds each.
Yet, despite his immense size and power, Craig was known by researchers, rangers, and visitors alike for his extraordinary gentleness. He was a calm presence on the plains, often unfazed by the safari vehicles that came to admire him. To see Craig was to see a masterclass in quiet strength.
A Legacy That Lives On
While Craig is no longer roaming the marshes of Amboseli, his legacy is firmly rooted in the soil.
- Conservation Ambassador: Craig helped the world fall in love with elephants, drawing attention to the vital work of the Amboseli Trust for Elephants and the Kenya Wildlife Service.
- Genetic Heritage: As a dominant bull, Craig has left behind numerous offspring. His “giant” genes will continue to flow through the herds of Amboseli for generations to come.
- A Symbol of Hope: His survival into old age is a testament to the successful partnership between conservationists and the local Maasai community, who worked together to ensure he could roam safely.
Reflection: The Creator’s Handiwork
For our faith-based travelers, Craig was more than just a wildlife sighting; he was a profound reminder of the Creator’s handiwork. Standing in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Craig looked like a creature from another era—a remnant of a time when giants ruled the earth.
His life reminds us of our responsibility as stewards of creation. We are called to protect and cherish the wonders of this world, ensuring that future generations can also experience the awe of standing near such a magnificent being.
A Final Salute
As we look toward the peaks of Kilimanjaro, we say goodbye to a friend of the park and a legend of the wild. The plains of Amboseli will miss his steady gait and the sweep of his great tusks, but his spirit remains in every elephant calf that plays in the dust and every sunset that paints the sky.
Rest in peace, Craig. You were truly one of a kind.
“Behemoth, which I made along with you… his strength is in his loins, and his power in the muscles of his belly. He makes his tail stiff like a cedar… He is the first of the works of God.” – Job 40:15-19
If you would like to learn more about how you can support elephant conservation in Amboseli, please visit the Amboseli Trust for Elephants.
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