Lower Sabie 22nd August and Finale

Tuesday, 22nd August            This is our last afternoon and again we choose to go out to the Muntshe area along the H10. On the river bridge we are told that there are Wild Dogs nearby along the S29 loop road out east. We go to have a look but find the pack of about ten dogs all sleeping under bushes. Rather like lions, Wild Dogs when sleeping are not the most interesting of sights – so we push on along the S29. Near the S122 intersection we come across a male and female Reedbuck at rest – both such beautiful specimens.

Thereafter, back early to camp where we sadly pack our camping gear in preparation for tomorrow’s departure.

Wednesday, 23rd          We leave Lower Sabie at 6.15am and travel down to Crocodile Bridge, The first 10km is in thick mist and with the caravan in tow, I always dread meeting an irritable elephant. We leave Kruger with the usual cheery good wishes from the Gate Guard.

The first half of the trip to Jo’burg is difficult with the road choked with heavy coal trucks. But after Machadodorp and once on the freeway, one can travel safely and quickly. After five weeks of such tranquility and peace, it really is an adjustment to rejoin the real world.

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So as to fill this last report from Kruger, I thought I would give a photographic summary of some of the highlights we have enjoyed since leaving Somerset West on 10th June. With the Cape experiencing a particularly cold and wet winter, we could not have timed our trip better.

It began with a short stay at beautiful KarooNational.

Then pushing onto Bloemfontein and then arriving at warm Ballito on 13th June.

On 13thb July we travelled to Jo’burg where we spent five days preparing for Kruger.

We arrived at Lower Sabie on 18th July where we spent three days before the arrival of Werner and Noleen who stayed in our caravan.

We then moved to Shingwedzi where we stayed in chalets for five days.

On 26th July we moved down to Satara.

30th July it’s down to Skukuza for three more days

And then back into the caravan at Lower Sabie on 2nd August.

What an outstanding trip. Kruger in winter is just magnificent. The pastel shades of the dry veld merging into the pale blue sky is so appealing. One truly becomes at peace with the world here and we were both so sad to leave. However, summer brings with it the migratory birds and the swimming pool so we will most likely be returning in February 2024.

In the meantime, Renette’s brother, Steven, will be join me in early January for a dedicated photographic trip to Etosha in Namibia. I will keep you posted.

Until then, thank you for joining us on our travels and we look forward to the next time.