Even seeing it casually lounging in the shade it is obvious that it's an apex predator.
That it also decided to trot across the road directly in front of me? Delightful! Wow!
Other highlights: close with a buffalo (who was very accommodating about good poses), a giraffe just off the road who also posed a few times, and beautiful scenic views of mountains and plains. Oh! And a crocodile and hippo in the river.
With exotic wildlife this abundant, there were a few times where I almost felt blase. Honestly we didn't even slow for at least 10 herds of impala. But seeing a giraffe wobble-walk ungainly to reach for juuust the right leaf, or the heave of a lion's belly while napping, or paying attention to the cracked skin of a hippo; it only takes an extra moment and I know I'll treasure these memories later.Read more
South AfricaMpumalangaMatjulu25°26’23” S 31°31’6” E
South AfricaMpumalangaMatjulu25°26’23” S 31°31’6” E