Dorset

Another sound sleep and the kids and I headed off for our 6am safari with guide Matthew and the 4 Germans. Pete opted for a lie in and to rest his back, after we left he had FOMO. Every safari is different and you never know what to expect. We decided to return to the zebra carcass to see who was feeding on it around the area. It was in worse shape than yesterday (smell and look). We ventured further down the track and found the two sisters and female cub. A different spot than yesterday and closer to the zebra (lions don’t usually stray far from their kill). Two kyte birds were hovering near the zebra, keeping an eye on the lions and swooping in for a feed themselves. It was a bit cooler this morning and the lions were all in a row, the cub in a pit. Again, amazing to watch and observe these creatures in the wild. As Ted said, you could stay watching them for hours. They are used to the safari cars that have been introduced that they barely arouse when they approach, only one lion lifting its head when we turned the engine back on again. We then ventured to higher ground for a coffee and muffin break, overlooking spectacular scenery. Continuing on, we came across a waterhole where 3 elephants were enjoying a big drink, learning that they drink up to 150 litres /day. Another elephant wandered down the hill and joined the others. They fell into pairs and began play fighting, incredible to hear the tusks clash in the quiet of the morning. We arrived back to the main lodge for breakfast and shared our adventure with Pete. We farewelled the Germans who were all heading off after breakfast. The girls and I had massages, a wonderful treat and sooo relaxing. Pete also booked in for a back and shoulders massage too. Chilled time playing games, reading and soaking up the tranquility, interspersed with Ted’s YouTube clips. Our guide Matthew did say that Ted could sub in for him due to his knowledge of the animals and their habitat. Instead of a game drive this afternoon we opted for a cruise on the Kariega river. We were on the Kariega Queen, it felt like the African Queen! It was serene and peaceful. We spotted many birds - a huge fish eagle perched high up on the bank, egrets, herons, monkeys and impalas. Ted even had a go driving the boat. As we made our way back to the main lodge, we saw some zebras up close. Dinner was a lovely affair as usual, and I think it was the most delicious yet! Perfectly cooked beef and roast vegetables - the food has not disappointed. We enjoyed stories with Matthew, and Ted added a few of his own (all YouTube based of course) and showed us funny videos of crazy tourists on safari he’d seen, one person even chasing a hippopotamus! Great end to another great day.Read more