I was fortunate to visit Londolozi in October 2014. Things were just beginning to green up and lambing season has not quite begun. There had recently been a big storm and clean up was underway. Our ranger was the wonderfully easy going and informative Sandros and it was the first time out for our tracker, Joy, who did a great job.
Practically the first sighting was a female cheetah. She was not very active but very relaxed and provided some great viewing. Later that week we also saw a male cheetah who was on a kill and practically waddled around, his stomach was so full! He left his meal and walked slowly, as if posing for us the whole way. We saw the female again on our last day, this time on the move. I was thrilled to see two different cats on three separate occasions.
It was as if she was posing for us to admire her beauty
The relaxed female allowed us to spend some quality time with her
A yawn!
Continued…
Another highlight was seeing two of the Majingilane males together. We were the first to find Scar Nose resting and after a few minutes with him we saw Dark Mane walking towards his brother. They greeted briefly and Dark Mane joined him. Dark Mane had a large wound over his right eye as evidence of a recent conflict.
Dark Mane with a wound over his eye
I think there is nothing more peaceful than watching a breeding herd of elephants moving quietly through the bush feeding with their youngsters. We were treated to this a couple of times.
Perfectly framed under its mothers belly
We were fortunate to have many great elephant sightings
The calf follows closely at its mothers side
The playful young hyenas kept us amused
Another great pleasure is watching young lions playing as well as seeing the close bond of the adult females. Also, visiting a hyena den to see the young juveniles playing together, was a special moment.
A tender moment
We saw the Big Five, along with cheetah, mating leopards, giraffe, beautiful birds, zebra, antelope, warthogs, hippos, a nursing rhino, and of course the beautiful scenery.
Leopard magic
Striped perfection
A young buffalo checks us out
The mighty Dark Mane
When you return to your camp, you are met with the most friendly and helpful people and on one occasion we were treated to a surprise bush dinner under the stars.
One afternoon, we toured the village and saw the many ways the Londolozi family help other people to help themselves.
I can’t find the words to describe the emotions of a safari trip to Africa but there are many. It makes me realise that I am but a speck in the universe and to hope that people can find a way to live in harmony without ruining Nature’s plan.
Seen from below our room in the Sand River
Written and Photographed by: Leslie Backus
Thank you so much for sharing your lovely photographs and memories of your trip with us Leslie. We never tire of visiting Londolozi and each trip presents us with something new and wonderful. Hoping to see Dark Mane and his brothers next weekend.
Your descriptions brought back fond memories of our times at Londolozi. Good to know the cheetahs are still there. Does anyone know where the off spring from 2013 have gone ?
Again, outstanding photos. I feel so insufficient when I look at such great lens-work but grateful that so many of you can encapsulate my best memories.
Leslie,
This is so well done. Beth was so pleased with the book you gave her, that we all got to look at it. Amazing photographs.
A fantastic trip! Thanks for sharing Leslie.
Your excellent photos and comment encapsulate our best memories and a great desire to return. Thank you for sharing.
Your pictures are stunning thank you Leslie
Thank you for sharing your experiences! Beautifully written and really amazing photos.