Frankfurt

The first big leg of our journey home is over. Uneventful, although a bit bumpy, and everyone slept. It was fun to smell sauerkraut as we walked through the airport to our gate. I am now sipping rooibos tea to remind me of Bushman's Kloof where it was growing. 

We had several hours to wait in Johannesburg so we all went to the Apartheid Museum. Very sobering experience for everyone. But really worth it. Also, a nice chat with the black driver who was a youth during those years.

Anyway, we are filled with thankfulness for this lovely experience with the Nichols and Jackson. Although some of us struggled with colds we all were safe and healthy and so well taken care of by these lovely people we met in SA. 

I think we are looking forward to home now and will try to beat the snow!

Thanks to all of you who read and responded to my blog. I loved sharing our experiences.

A blessed 2015!!!

Final Game Drive with New Sightings

This morning was our final game drive. It was a lovely morning with perfect temperatures. There had been rumours of African Wild Dogs entering the area last night. The rangers have an uncanny ability to find them. Just 20 minutes into our drive a herd of Impala is in full flight. The Wild Dogs have caught a young Impala and are enjoying breakfast. A pack of at least 10. 

Next, we find three sleeping lions and soon after, a mom and daughter leopard pair. 

Near the river we come across a single hippo out of the water. This proves my point that they ar not always in the water during the day! This one stares at us for a while and then settles back into the mud.

It was a lovely morning and now we must pack. First flight, to Johannesburg. Second one, to Frankfurt. Third one, home!!

Warthog and Such

Within minutes of this evening's game drive we were surrounded by elephants again. They communicate with a low rumble which is amazing to hear. It is a bit nerve wracking to be near them because they are so big!! 

We came across a warthog at close range. It actually has wart like things on its face. 

Petro, our spotter, has eagle eyes and noticed a leopard hidden on top of a termite hill.

Finally, we were treated to female lions nursing their young. What a treat that was. The big male lay some distance away, fast asleep.

We are getting tired of all the early morning rising. One more game drive before we head home!

Oh, yes. We also saw three white rhinos wallowing in a pond.

Happy New Year

Another game drive this morning. We saw "only" another leopard, some elephants and a few sleeping lions. We also had another flat tire. Not surprising with all the rocks, thorns, etc.

After our coffee break, John, Jeff, Ryan and the ranger with his loaded gun walked the last five Km back to the lodge. I did not go because I didn't want the stress. The guys have just come and they did not see any animal. But how was I to know!

Last day here. Tomorrow the long trek home again.