Day 9 Friday 17 April Masasani

Awoke at dawn with hippos on shore close by and 9 on the far bank. A stunning dawn sky. Made my way to the boma and made a coffee for r both of us, walking it back to our hut.

Packed up ready for departure and then walked to the boma for some breakfast.

We left Masasani just after 7.30 a.m. Stopped at the viewpoint again. The Rundi had visibly reduced in size. Paid for firewood at the Park Reception and asked a friendly South African to take a group photo.

Pushed through the Malalingwi Concession (saw no game) and filled up with petrol at Chiredzi. It was a long drive back to Harare (600 kms) so it was constant travel as we pushed north.

Chiredzi (extensive sugar cane fields), then Buffal Ranges and on to Zaka where there are some attractive hills. Stopped for morning tea on the side of the road. On to Gutu where the road deteriorated into frequent potholes. 30 minutes of arduous driving. Roadside for another lunch break.

Dave's car stuttering occasionally with dirt in the petrol. Arrived at the Harare South toll gates where I swapped cars and we farewelled the Whites. They had been fun on our trip.

Across town to Glen Lorne before dark and all hands helped unpack the trailer and Prado. Jean had prepared a Spaghetti Bolognaise so we sat and talked but were in bed by 9.00 pm.

It had been a memorable visit to Gonarezhou.Read more