The sounds of the night fade and the change to the sounds of the day are a sacred time in Africa. The light changes in the sky and the night insects quiet down and the coerr-coering of the turtle dove and the grunts of hippo from the river remind you that you are in a wilderness surrounded by animals as they were many years ago.
The fires are re-awakened, the wonderful smell of coffee and wood-smoke mingle to energise you out of your sleepy state and into one of awareness. The bush has a way of reminding you of the NOW. As you step out into the crisp coldness of the morning, the faint colours of the dawn appear in the still dark sky, today you have the chance to walk the bush, on the animals terms and they are the wise ones, they are the sentients. You go on their terms.
After a briefing of some of the rules to be remembered, your armed Game Guide leads you deep into the heart of the bush, more noise you make the less game you will see. Better to wear bush coloured clothes as well. Fresh signs of animals that moved during the night, - spoor of a lion, elephant tracks, a herd of 10 or more must have been just here, the awareness is heightened, the heart beat and rush of where you are is awesome.
A little further on, there's a movement in the bush ahead, and there they are.... grazing under a grove of sausage trees. You hang back, making sure the wind doesn't bring the smell of you to them. Just watch....... See how they pull the bark from the tree, see the matriarchal mother lead the herd a little further, you creep slowly behind.
Your guide tells you many stories of the ways of elephants in their natural environment. You walk a little closer, keeping low and out of sight. Suddenly one looks up.......sniffs the air with her long trunk, lets out a long eerie trumpet as she senses the presence of humans. They turn and disappear from sight in seconds.
Most of the Game Lodges offer a Walking Safari option, taken either in the early morning or late afternoon. Refreshments are served along the way carried by an able porter. All you take is your binoculars, a hat and a sense of respect and wonder.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Also see tour packages in:
Africa
Zambia
Wildlife Viewing
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