An Afternoon Safari

We took a dip in the pool overlooking the Zambezi River, and then moved on to our next adventure: a safari through the smallest game park in Zambia, close to our hotel.  The adventurous trio. . .

It was the habitat for the major African animal groups, except the lion and leopard. Due to its proximity to our lodge, and the probability they would eat the creatures systematically in this small park, the keepers decided against keeping them.

                                                     

     Our first encounter: Cape Buffalo

                           

                               Bok (or buck) of all varieties. This one is an Impala

                                                                   Giraffe, of course. . .

                                      

                                           Couldn't resist this guy. . .

     Baboons. . .our flight's landing was delayed because of mischievous monkeys!

                        

                              Zebra (the "e" has a short, not long sound in Afrikkans)

                                                  

                                                The elusive Guinea fowl, who scattered each time our jeep approached.  

      About 8-10 elephant crossed the road in a parade, coming from the river at dusk. The perfect time        

      to see wildlife!

                                    

                                          What a treat to see the white (or wide-mouthed) rhino, which were     

                                          sequestered in a fenced off area for safety. We were yards from them, out in     

                                          the open!

                                    

                                           These guards were monitoring them 24/7. . .

     Years ago, these were the barracks of officers who guarded the entire park. . .

                             

                                    Now it's the hideout for the monitor lizard!

      The day ended with a brilliant sunset . . .but not before we returned to our 'gated community'.

                                 

            Stay tuned for our continuing adventure: Victoria Falls and the border crossing . . .

On to Zambia Where Adventure Awaits. . .

When we arrived in Livingstone, Zambia, we stepped on this platform as we disembarked:

It's true!

The David Livingstone Lodge and Spa was everything we expected and more:

After checking in, we took a Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River, and saw this comical character:

And many birds along the banks:

And then, the sunset, of course!

The sky is on fire!

Bright and early the next morning, we began our next adventure: riding elephants. We were instructed, signed the papers, and pulled ourselves onto the back of these gentle giants. Along the way, staff would stop and take photos. Here are a few Highlights:

Our missionary friend, Martha, joined us . . .

Cute little guy!

Ant hills. . .

My guide and elephant, who evidently, was orphaned then rescued.

The flame tree, which blooms BEFORE the rain. . .now that's faith!