It had been years since I went for a good safari in Africa. The anticipation was exhilarating. I was about to head to the Sabi Sands game reserve, which forms part of the Kruger National Park in South Africa.
The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is located neighboring the famous Kruger National Park, and there is no fence between the two. The animals roam freely between the two National Parks. Actually, the Sabi Sands game Reserve is the more beautiful of the two, and more animals seem to like it here. Almost everyone I met in South Africa seemed to personally vouch for the latter.
It was not my first time in Africa. I had a stint in Kenya in my twenties as a wildlife photographer and was familiar with the bush, although a lot has changed in the years. I still remembered the basics of camping, which mosquito repellent was effective and other details. I thought it would not be as hard as it would be for a novice, and it was with a relaxed mindset that I packed essentials.
Well when it is Mother Nature you are dealing with, certainly nothing can be taken for granted. Things can get quite unpredictable in the African Bush. I booked in at the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and booked into a hut. Although it was summer, since Mpumalanga lies in the regions where summer rainfall is common, a hut was a better option compared to camping.
The first day of my stay at the game reserve dawned, and I was lucky enough to spot some wild buffaloes right in the morning. Later in the day, I got really up close with a giraffe. The tall fellow was pretty gentle considering his height. It was certainly an experience. I remember wondering how a comment like “How’s the air up there?” would be received by the solemn animal.
The second day at the Reserve was even luckier, I saw a group of elephants, a leopard, and a couple of lionesses. Although I did not take any pictures, all these were perfect photo opportunities. The evening came, and I fell asleep. Elephants were what I wanted to see next. May be next day.
I always had a fascination with the big creatures, their movements and group behavior have always interested me. I always wanted to watch them live, and I got the opportunity only on the fourth day. The third day was not very productive in terms of elephant watching, although I saw some zebras and more lions. My guide advised me of a spot near a water hole where he knew elephants came to drink, and it was there I made my way to.
I was in my jeep when I saw a group of elephants strolling with dignity in the direction of the water hole. I went along surreptitiously and saw many of the gentle creatures in their natural environment. What touched me most was the interaction between a mother elephant and her child. I continued watching till the elephants disappeared.
My stay at the Sabi Sands Game reserve has become truly memorable.
