randombirder

After checking out of Sunbird Lodge, we set off towards Phalaborwa and began the long, stop-start drive in the direction of Hazyview.  These drives are really about the moments along the way, every animal sighting a small joy, regardless of the species. Although the park is rich in wildlife, there are stretches when sightings are few and far between, which somehow makes each encounter feel all the more special. Heading along the Phalaborwa road toward Letaba, it was generally quiet, until this happened. A beautiful lioness emerged from the leftside of the road. I slammed on the brakes and for the next few minutes with no one else around, we were absolutely beguiled by this beautiful animal. Into the road it continued unperturbed by a couple of other vehicles that eventually arrived on the scene. We continued to move further into the park stopping first at the Letaba rest camp. More roadworthy animals. This young male elephant evidently had a good time at a waterhole. More crossing...