"Out to Bush"

Getting to Impodimo Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve took a 5-hour van trip from Joburg...in pouring rain! In addition to Tommy, me, and our friend Susan from Charleston, we only have one other cruise couple on the safari -- Gail & Britt from Scottsdale, AZ. We weathered the van ride with our driver, Amos, and travel guides, Darrell & Paul. 

We no sooner drove through the gate of this 35,000 acre reserve than we spotted an elephant. A little further along, two zebras were munching on bushes in the rain. Then, a small herd of impala. Lastly, a gigantic giraffe! It seemed suspiciously like they had been sent a WhatsApp message to run out along the road to greet the arriving tourists. 

Next stop, the Impodimo Lodge. Wow. Just Wow. A 30-minute ride into the reserve strictly on dirt roads through the Bush brought us to a fabulous stone lodge with thatched roof. Rustic, comfortable, 5 star. We got checked into our luxurious individual cabins, walked back for High Tea, and then headed out with our ranger, Sam, and his scout, Lock. All of this still in pouring rain. 

We didn't last too long (2 hours) in the rain, but had a great time watching a rhino rolling around in a water hole. Then, back to the lodge for drinks and a delicious dinner.  

We are not allowed to walk around at night by ourselves, so Sam (and his rifle) escorted us to our cabins. Just as we arrived, lions let out huge roars. It sounded like that old lion in Hampton Park had escaped, found 2 or 3 new friends, and they were roaring right outside our bedroom window!

But they didn't keep us awake. We fell straight into bed only to have the phone ring at 4:30 am. It was Sam reminding us that the morning drive was beginning at 5 am. Get moving! 

The rain had stopped, and we were out 4 hours, including a "coffee break." More animals, more laughs.

Now, NAP TIME until high tea at 4, and afternoon drive at 5, with "Sundowner" drinks in the Bush. As I write this, we are watching parades of impala outside our  cabin window. Two more days!

"Going to Bush." Exhausting. Amazing. Like nothing else, ever!