Sun Destinations

Mike and Fiona Clark had yet another successful day game viewing in the Klaserie. This post was written on their third day in the Klaserie and it seems the rangers from both Africa on Foot and nThambo have delivered in terms of sightings.

“Over lunch we all discussed which animals we still wanted to see, and a resounding “leopard” was the answer from everyone – the only one of the big 5 we have not yet seen! ” I have a foolproof plan” replied Faffa. So off we started on our game drive, all awaiting Faffa’s plan to see a leopard. We stopped at a bush (I can’t divulge the name of the bush as it’s top secret – well more like I have forgotten its name!) and Faffa jumped off to collect leaves. We all had to chew on the bitter leaf – this apparantly would ensure we see a leopard before we leave. And, like fools we did as we were asked. It was like chewing on a lemon!!! Then we continued on our way with high expectations……

Firstly we came across a ‘Dazzle’ of zebra. Theses are quite rarely seen in this area, so it was lovely to see this mother and foal, standing together looking at us for that perfect photo. Next we saw a herd of Kudu, including a young male with tiny horns, looking just like a devil. We hunted high and low for the elusive leopard, not stopping for anything else – but no luck. We stopped for sundowners, right beside 2 rhino, who watched us intently as we drank and ate. How lucky and privileged to see these animals so relaxed in our presence !

We continued in our search for the leopard as the skies got darker. Gawie stopped as Faffa spotted a bush baby in the light from the spotlight in a tree. John, one of the other guests, jokingly commented – “is it a leopard?” Faffa replied ” yes it’s a bonsai leopard” to which we all fell about laughing. It just goes to show, it’s not always about the animals we see, it’s about the good company and the rapport between the guests and the rangers.

Here at nThambo this is always the best part of any time spent here. Back at camp we were treated to a traditional South African Braai, of lamb chops and boerewors. This was cooked by Gawie as we all sat around the Braai reminiscing about the fun nights we’ve all just experienced.

This morning we were up early, still insistent that we would see a leopard today, but the bush had other ideas. There were plenty of birds sitting perfectly for photos, including black headed oriole, brown snake eagle, grey goaway bird and lesser striped swallows to name a few. We also saw a herd of blue wildebeest (aptly named ‘the Addams family’). We also saw another 2 rhinos in the thick bush, but despite all their efforts, no leopard came out to see us – never mind there still 3 more days for the magic leaves to work!!!!”