This week we’ve got a roundup of incredible images from Botswana and from Kruger where our exceptional camps nestle in their wild homes. Surrounded by the African bush, everyday is brimming with opportunity to witness something phenomenal. It is the new season of rain, and the heat is rising for summer, and with the new flourish of greenery come the migratory birds. Animal activity is changing, and there is a sense of celebration in the air. Take a look at what superb wildlife sightings have come out of our camps this week!
In Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Mapula Lodge is located on its very own hippo-filled lagoon. After flying in with Major Blue Air‘s 6 seater plane, we enjoyed a series of game drives and a cruise on the mokoro, which resulted in some fantastic game viewing. The first morning began with a lone male lion on the airstrip – a sighting we enjoyed for a luxuriously long time as he rose and eloped into the bush. Game drives were full of elephants, giraffes, and general game, like the zebras (pointed out by Mapula’s guide, Albert) and the buffaloes whose united interest in us made for a good capture.
Haina Kalahari Lodge lies on the fence line of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in its own wildlife concession. The fence does not mean anything to the lions however, as we witnessed a huge male effortlessly squeeze himself through the wires! A fantastic kill site was the highlight of our game drive, and we got to watch a pride of 3 lionesses, 6 cubs and one male feed off a kudu bull. That night we set off after dinner for a night drive in search of some nocturnal activity. We were very lucky to see a genet, a pair of spotted eagle owls, and the precious bat-eared fox.
Headed for Camp Linyanti, we drove through the marvellous Chobe National Park, famously known as the home of elephants. Before we had entered the park we had had elephants crossing the road in front of us, alongside giraffe and zebra. A truly wild country, and we were entering its oldest and most diverse park. After arriving at our campsite, neighbouring the permanent 5-bedroomed Camp Savuti, we pitched tents and said hello to the elephants, which were ambling passed our braai place and headed towards the Linyanti swamp in front of us. We set out on game drive and saw some incredible things! An African rock python was seen strangulating its meal and thereafter, eating it; plus, 2 male lions were panting on the green banks of the swamp with their buffalo kill, while a couple of elephants were angrily making their way over to the lions to chase them away. What a game drive that was!
Afrika Ecco Mobile Safaris, conducting water-based and on-foot tours in the Okavango Delta, takes adventurous guests into the wildest regions of this wetland. You are always likely to see things other guests may not, as you delve deeper into the details and discover a new world of wilderness. Here are some of the sights stumbled upon recently with these passionate, Setswana guides.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the Greater Kruger Park has been a hive of activity lately. The Klaserie’s Ross Pride lionesses have made numerous kills, all in view of guests at nThambo Tree Camp and Africa on Foot. The camps are full and guides are busy showing their visitors just what Africa is all about. Elephants are everywhere with lots of young babies to ‘ooh’ and ‘ash’ over, while guests have also been treated to a young rhino calf, and some exceptional bird life.
nDzuti Safari Camp, placed at the beautiful ox-bow of the Klaserie River, is surrounded by ridges and valleys, which makes the landscape indescribably beautiful. Sundowners are a highlight at this camp, as Bruce and Judy know just the right spots to boast the phenomenal views as the sky turns pink and orange. While photographer Em Gatland was visiting, she captured wonderful images of nightlife, birdlife, and some of nDzuti’s common residents.
In the Sabi Sand Wildtuin – little introduction needed – Umkumbe Safari Lodge elevates itself overlooking the Sand River, and there is little reason to move from your comfortable poolside lounger, as so many species gather right in front of the lodge to drink and graze. As superb as Umkumbe’s placement is, it is not its only appeal. Game drives are chock-full of predator sightings, just as the Sabi Sand is known for. Take a look at the recent sightings Em Gatland bore witness to…
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