Mapunga - Griessballs on Tour

24 Aug

24Aug

As we roll on we set our course from Kasabushi to Mapunga (the closest camp to Basunga Plains) in Northern Kafue. Once our convoy parked and we switched into full-on camp mode, we embarked on a sun-soaking mission for our solar panels, hoping they'd give our power systems a much-needed boost. As for ablutions, well, they were there – let's just say they weren't winning any "best in show" awards. At least the ladies got the upper hand with private showers, a small victory in the world of wild restrooms.

Our camp on the banks of the Kafue River had a star resident: Pinkie the so-called pet hippo. Now, don't let that "pet" label fool you – this four-ton personality paraded around camp like the true boss of the savannah, grazing and sleeping as if the whole place was his personal kingdom.

We lined up a sunset cruise on the Kafue with our guide extraordinaire, Greg. Boarding the boat, we set sail up the river, the horizon painted with the hues of a promising evening. Birdwatching was on the menu, and guess who decided to grace us with its presence? The elusive African Finfoot, a true feathered VIP. With a couple of beverages in hand, we cruised along, relishing the cool breeze and the slow drift of the river. And then, it happened – a spot perfectly timed sunset. The Kafue River, that legendary name our parents and friends have raved about, lived up to its larger-than-life reputation.

Summing up Mapunga, it's a well-run camp site. The staff are like the friendly conductors, orchestrating the camp's every note with super helpful efficiency. And let's not forget the game-changer – they have ice. Yes, you heard that right. Ice in the wild is like stumbling upon a treasure chest, and they've got it. Score one for the adventurers' refreshment arsenal!

So, from Pinkie's grand entrances to sunset cruises with birdwatching VIPs, and from ok restroom to the holy grail of wilderness commodities (ice!), Mapunga was a chapter of our journey that seemed to dance to its own rhythm. A bit of humour, a lot of nature's beauty, and just a touch of modern convenience.