It was a great weekend, from me learning to drive on the left (and giving James a few good scares!) to our walking safaris where on one walk we saw a lion and 2 lionesses (about 500 meters away). The camp is beautifully maintained, with great meals, no electricity - so it's amazingly quiet and peaceful.
Kafue Nat'l Park: http://www.zambiatourism.com/travel/nationalparks/kafue.htm
McBride's Camp: http://www.mcbridescamp.com/
9 a.m. - overlooking the Kafue River
A Breakfast Visitor
Watching The Hippos
Once out, the hippos barely moved. Just sunbathed all day, standing in one spot. They eventually all lay down on the ground, but spent a good deal of time standing first.
Hippos actually can be dangerous animals and you don't want to be too close to them. They can run fast (the word comes from the Greek word for 'horse') and they weigh 3,000 to 7,000 lbs. They are claimed to be the deadliest animal in Africa for humans!
Accomodation at McBride's Camp
Our accommodation was a thatched chalet with an open air, bathroom. The thatching is waterproof and animal proof. At night you can usually hear the hippos walking around that come up out of the Kafue River which is just a few 100m from the chalet. The second night we were there a leopard walked all through camp. It makes a distinct breathing sound. It won't bother humans and we were quite safe.
There is no electricity, so at night it's oil lamps and candles. And it's amazingly quiet and beautiful. It was the first time for me seeing the southern hemisphere sky and I have to admit I've never seen so many stars shine so brightly. A deep thanks to James for his patience in teaching me the Southern Cross.
The outdoor shower - under the stars at night.
Hanging out after tea. This is the lodge where we would have meals (on other side) or just hang out and read. It is open to the river, with walls on 2 sides.
James, John, the McBrides (owners) and another family visiting from the U.K.
