Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Embarking on the Epic Zambian adventure was a journey teeming with anticipation, excitement, and just a hint of the unknown. As the clock's hands nudged their way towards 5:30 AM, the atmosphere was charged with the promise of exploration. 

The starting point: Bryanston, a place of origin that held both the echoes of familiarity and the promises of uncharted territories. With the first rays of dawn casting a warm golden glow, two vehicles stood ready, like loyal steeds prepared for a grand quest. Accompanied by trailers that carried the weight of expectation, the convoy set forth. It was a sight to behold – the engines roaring to life, the tires rolling purposefully over the pavement, and the trailers trailing like loyal companions. 

The departure was remarkably smooth, as if the universe itself conspired to ensure a seamless beginning. The new, seemingly modest driveway transformed into a portal of possibilities, beckoning the travellers towards the open road. It was an affirmation that this journey was destined to be epic in every sense of the word. However, the adventure wouldn't be complete without a touch of whimsy and irony. Just as the convoy was finding its rhythm, a hiccup emerged – the American vehicles lacked rear lights, an unforeseen quirk that introduced a dash of eccentricity to the journey. But such hiccups were mere ripples in the narrative, easily overcome by resourcefulness and adaptability.

As the convoy rolled towards the first toll booth, a blend of curiosity and exasperation hung in the air. The encounter with bureaucracy took an unexpected turn – foreign credit cards weren't embraced here, and the Americans found themselves navigating the intricate dance of cross-cultural transactional quirks. With a bemused shake of the head, they paid their first "African welcome fee," a gesture that mingled exasperation and amusement in equal measure. 

The voyage led them to the Stockpoort Border Post, a juncture that had been a source of apprehension. The imagined hurdles of transporting wine and meat across borders vanished like morning mist. The border officials, with their welcoming demeanour, defied the worries that had been nurtured for so long. The travellers were met not with suspicion, but with open arms – a reminder that genuine human connections transcend bureaucratic boundaries.

The sun had climbed higher in the sky as the convoy entered the Khama Rhino Reserve, a place where nature's majesty met the thrill of exploration. The clock's hands pointed to around two in the afternoon, a time when the heat shimmered and the anticipation of the first campsite hung heavy in the air. As the vehicles came to a halt and the trailers were released from their duty, a sense of accomplishment permeated the scene. 

But even in the midst of triumph, reality had its say. The bustling popularity of Khama Rhino Reserve revealed its own challenges. The ablutions, usually sanctuaries of convenience, now seemed overwhelmed by the influx of guests. It was a reminder that even paradise requires prudent planning to preserve its magic. 

A game drive beckoned, an opportunity to encounter the wild residents of this African haven. Yet, even nature's symphony sometimes struck discordant notes. Khama's decision to funnel all traffic through a single path caused a vehicular ballet that was equal parts chaos and camaraderie. The vehicles, returning from their journeys, brushed shoulders with those heading towards the horizon, creating a tapestry of exploration and excitement. As the sun began its descent towards the horizon, the travellers found themselves at Malema Pans, eager to witness the canvas of the sky painted in hues of gold and crimson. The wardens, guardians of this sanctuary, added their own twist to the tale – "Stay within your vehicles," they cautioned, offering a taste of the wild while keeping a firm grip on safety.

Cambel - The Explora

Khama Rhino Reserve, a place of cherished memories, had transformed in the face of popularity. Its allure remained, but it had reached a crossroads where its charm needed to adapt to the demands of the present. The travellers contemplated future paths, vowing to seek the less-travelled trails, perhaps venturing as far as Nata or even the gateway to Maun. For in the heart of every great journey lies the unquenchable thirst for discovery – not only of new lands but of one's own resilience, adaptability, and the ability to find the extraordinary within the ordinary. 

The Epic Zambian trip had only just begun, and its chapters promised both the predictable and the unexpected, all woven together to create a narrative as diverse and captivating as the landscapes they traversed.

Wonderful camp fire tunes from Rob - seriously amazing thanks Rob!

A fresh start to our day but luckily Mike had a sunrise fire going to keep us warm.

Crimson Breasted Shrike