1st Time Mapungubwians *

[Penga Ndlovu]

In the meantime mMa was taking her shots too as per usual

a non- survivor



a Birdie in the flowers I can't seem to get identified



a Woodpecker in a tree. Stumped here too



Some Jabbie rumps



a Very surprised looking G

[nan]

love Baobab and the little Dassie

[Penga Ndlovu]

As we left that beautiful place for our 40km trip back to the camp, we decided that tomorrow we will be back there and then a bit earlier.

The rest of the day we filled with a short trip along the western part of the park.

We found this curious Warthog that did not really wanted to show himself



The trees slowly started to glow in the late afternoon sun



The only two Giraffes in the park getting some dinner



The two Zebbies cuddeling



And then running off.



And then it was time for a beer and a braai again.

[Penga Ndlovu]

So the next morning, after a quick breakfast of coffee and rusks, we set of for the main gate again.

Along the way looking for that big mFesi that crossed the tar road right in front of us yesterday.



At the main gate, and also all along the road we came across these ugly fellows



The vistas hazing in the sun already



And then this great big fellow standing guard over it



More of them elsewhere



And later on we met up with these fellows whom first blocked our path on the Riverine Road and later came out and walked in this magnificent "Out of Africa" setting



And in a grad display of colors this dam opened up on us



With more sights to be seen



And then we came upon another 4 x 4 route only which mMa, again, insisted on taking.
Hopping and bopping along over gullies, rocks and soft sand we were halted by this, rather, stubborn fellow.
He just simply would not let us pass.
So we made a U- turn and let him have his satisfaction



Along the way we met this cute little fellow
Normally they are really skittish, but in Mapungubwe they are extremely curious



Just before the exit of the park is the last 4 x 4 trail.
Classed as very dangerous.
As the solitude of the north was reeling us in very rapidly we decided to do that one too



Damn!
It was the ride of a lifetime.

Steep cliffs, very loose sand, loose shale and gravel and near 40 degree angles took every every bit of driving skill I had out of me to negotiate that trail.



But the ride sure was one worth doing





There were times that there was literally no road as water had washed it away and I had to get out and build a road.
I felt like a Voortrekker.

After a lot of laughs, ohhh's, ahhh's and cursing we finished the trail in one piece.

We left with a feeling of utter contentment and joy and we were not at all disappointed by the park.

Braaitime and Klippies and Coke.

The next morning it was time to pack and leave this great place



Along the route still enjoying the scenery



And seeing some wildlife



Beautiful