Our tour of "proper Africa" Day 1
The tale and pictures you've been waiting for!
We arrived at the tiny thatched roof Nelspruit/Kruger National Park airport to Tim, another friendly South African face welcoming us to "proper Africa. Cape Town is European."
Tim is co-owner and architect of the Bushwise resort in Marloth Park, a conservation park just outside of Kruger. The lodge is beautifully designed with a thick thatched roof that is a requirement for developing in the area. The view from the the balcony of Bushwise is of Kruger National Park and the Crocodile River. The properties are only divided by a wire and electric fence (which apparently doesn't really work on the leopords!). Everyday we get to see a still and serene landscape, and at night hear the lions and hippos declaring their territory. Very cool experience!
View from the Bushwise upper deck:
Very nice little infintity pool over looking Kruger:
Shortly after arriving we went on our first safari adventure-the night run. Guides from the park take a group of about a dozen on a sunset to evening ride in a vehicle with spotlights to see the nocturnal animals. Fortunate for us we had a jolly guide (Isaac) with a good sense of humor because after 2 hours of riding and having cold wind and water slapped in our faces, and seeing nothing but common impalas and bush babies we were feeling a little grumpy. Eventually we did spot animals. An adolescent elephant, black backed jackyl and hyenas! On future winter night rides, I recommend a ski mask and several wool blankets. ;)
-Noosha, the blossoming blogger and Brian
