"G-G-G-Girrraffe." I stuttered as we bounced by a small group feeding nearby. "Imp-p-p-pallla, " Countered Jan, looking the other way as we bounced from one rut into another on the marsh road from the entrance gate, heading North towards Savuti.
In fact, this was the best section of road in the park! We did not know this at the time, but were soon to find out.
We rejoined the main track South of Savuti and encountered thick sand. We had been told to take the marsh road to avoid the heavy trucks careening down the main road from the North. We found one of them now, but he was heading in our direction and kindly let us by. We sped on. Speed being a relative term here. Bouncing over and over and over for what seemed like hours on end.
We stopped for a break and met a convoy of 6 fellow travellers. We warned them of the deep sand they were heading into and wished them luck. We had barely made it through ourselves.
Arriving in Savuti, we knew that we had a long road ahead, so motored on. Eventually hitting a section of gravel so we could stop and take a break.
After a bone cracking, back breaking, teeth chattering drive, we finally hit the tar road at Kachikau and drove in relative comfort for the first time that day.
Along the A33 we saw a magnificent sable bull at the side of the road, but he would not pose side on for a photo and moved off into the bush.
Arriving in Kasane, we headed for the shops to stock up on supplies before checking in at Chobe Safari Lodge. We had a campsite booked, but opted to upgrade to a room for a spot of luxury.
Showered & shaved, we headed for the bar and relaxed for the evening. The wall above the bar was decorated with gecko sculptures. Some were surprisingly lifelike!
We sat on the deck above the Chobe River, enjoying the view and the cold beer. The cries of African fish-eagles echoed into the distance and when a group of African skimmers flew by, other patrons wondered if there was a madman amongst them as I think I may have been a wee bit excitable at this point.
