Tinyiko came and got us this morning because we were one minute late for the game drive. If everyone is early, then he can leave earlier. We were trying to send some reports and pictures from 4am, when we assume most folks are not online. Sometimes it works, and other times, not.
We had mostly sun with a fresh breeze early this morning…more like we remembered it in past years. Today we headed out for an hour drive towards the park boundaries and Shaw's Gate in search of a different pride of lions. On the way, we did see a few impala, wildebeests, zebras, and a giraffe. Sitting on a bare limb, we spotted a couple of vultures. Five rhinos stood firm while many birds flew overhead. Eventually, we were driven to a high bluff with views of the Sabi River and bridge far below. It was the perfect spot to stop for our morning coffee. The dried fruit and almond biscotti cookies are the best, and becoming as addictive as the Amarula in the coffee.
Back on the road, we drove past a bull elephant and a group of road workers driving tractors. A warthog and her four babies crossed in front of us, their little tails flying in the air as they scooted off of the road. It was then that Tinyiko got a call to go see the lions. There were 4 males, or two sets of brothers, and one female, a sister to two of the males. They were all sleeping in a pile alongside the road in the grass. They could care less about us being there. Our guide said these males were young at three years old. In time, they will have to split up and find different lions to mate with.
On the way back to the camp, we passed by a male baboon and one elephant. We were back at the lodge by 9am and ready for breakfast. At least eight guests had gone home today, so we were able to finally get some fresh-squeezed orange juice for a change. The end table was set for beverages, but these folks made themselves mimosas every morning and drained the juice.
With our omeletes today, we asked for some potatoes, like hash browns or diced roasted potatoes. Our server said that was fine, and shortly, she arrived with a full plate of French fries. Not expecting that, we enjoyed every bite since they were hot and crispy. About then, we were treated to a sighting of the mama wart hog and those 4 babies.
We caught up with photos, then ran in between showers to the little shop on the grounds. We discovered that the best internet is right inside this small building. The staff invited us to use their counter, which we did. Had we known, we could have tried this sooner. The showers continued off and on most of the afternoon. It was also a great time to start the packing, since we will be leaving after breakfast tomorrow. No sense waiting until the last minute.
Lunch was at 2:30pm, and we were served the snack tray along with a large green salad with diced chicken to share. We also had taquitos with sweet and sour sauce, and assorted fresh fruit. By 4pm we were ready for game drive # 9. A new young Dutch couple joined our vehicle , but our buddy Robin was switched to another driver. He was not happy, but said nothing. Now that we had some new people, we went to see the rhinos first, followed by the Cape buffalo, one giraffe, and many impala. Reports were that the lions were on the move now. Maybe because of the on and off rain, they were more active. We did see the lions, but by now the light was very poor. We all saw a nice rainbow, as well as a nice sunset.
Although it supposedly is not allowed on game drives, everyone seemed to have a cell phone. Even though they all had cameras, they still used the phones to video. What these folks don't realize is when they put their arms up to film, they are blocking the view for others. In this case, eight arms went up. The best thing that happened was sundown as it was too dark to film.
By the time we stopped for sundowners, it was totally dark. One of us did not leave the vehicle, because you cannot see the elephant dung on the road. Our luck, we would step in it, and have to fly to Cape Town the next day smelling that. On the way back, a pick-up truck full of well-armed rangers were looking for poachers. They are told to shoot first, ask questions later. Tinyiko said if there was an incident involving poachers, they may not hear about it for days.
On the way back, Tinyiko spotted a small chameleon in the tree, and plucked it off from the branch for us to see. Curious little creatures, they seem harmless except to bugs. We also saw the nightjar again and the owl who seem to hang out together in this area.
Back at our cottage, we noticed that the claw-footed deep bathtub was full of hot, hot water with bubbles from the bath salts. It was cast iron, so we knew the temperature would last for quite a while. The staff has done this every evening since we came here. Tonight, one of us made the decision to use it, and it was heavenly. Should have used it from day one, duh.
Dinner was served at 8pm. Before the meal began, the current owner, Dave, came to each table introducing himself and chatted with the guests. He seemed to remember us, but it has been 5 years since we were here last. He filled us in with what happened after Covid shut down the country in 2020. It wasn't pretty and lasted too long he said. Although the camp was closed to foreigners, it was still operational for those who lived in South Africa. Having a drink, we polished off their bottle of Knob Creek, then had veggie soup and different salads. Bill's was smoked salmon, while mine was avocado. The main dish was roasted pork slices with rice, mixed veggies, and the tastiest gravy on the side. A shot glass of amarula followed with a light cheesecake for dessert. No coffee for us, we were in bed by 10:30pm.
Bill & Mary Ann
