Makadigkadi Pans

Hot on the road, straight away 2 elephants. A good sign. Until one walked towards the road as I approached. Didn't stop for photos. Zebras up next then nothing for ages. Plenty of sign of elephants removing water pipe covers to get into the water pipes. I'd been warned many times and yesterday about the elephants so was on high alert. Apart from a solitary gazelle that was it for the morning. It took another 5 hours before my next encounter. Dumbo was grazing the tree from the shade, in the heat of the day. About 5 m from the road. As I approached on the opposite side he swiveled and eyed me up. Once again an approaching car distracted him. Snapped a few shots but no Nat Geo for them. At around 4 pm and 100km done I was down to my last 500 ml of fluids, without an obvious refill scenario. And I could feel the early signs of cramp. I flagged down a truck driver, holding up the water bottle. He warned it might be a little salty - just what was required. Heading off again I made another 2 km before I got hit with a decent calf/hamstring cramp combo. Ugh ! I was down to walking until I could ride again it seems. A few minutes later a lovely couple from Gaborone stopped and offered me a ride. It was pretty clear the bike wasn't going to fit so they continued on. 2 minutes later they returned and were determined to help me out. I got the wheels off and bags in the car and ended up sitting on the frame, holding the door closed against the bike, which was still too big. However we made it to Gweta Lodge about 20 km away, where thankful and happy I managed to get a room for an acceptable rate. Beer was also welcome.Read more