Friday, August 15, 2014

Addo Elephant National Park: Still No Leopards

However, we did see plenty of other new animals!  Within our first 30 minutes in the park, we saw both meerkats and elands:


...and had several close-up encounters with previously-viewed game.


We thoroughly enjoyed our two days in Addo, even though we continue to be unlucky with the big cats, failing to spot either more lions or our first leopard.  (Giorgio is starting to think that leopards are mythical creatures.)

In comparison to the other parks we’ve visited, Addo seemed to be both newer and more upmarket.  Our accommodation certainly eclipsed the rondavels in Kruger (and was larger than a standard studio in NYC).


Although our private terrace was surrounded by trees, dinner our second evening was abruptly ended by the arrival of a mystery visitor.  After some internet research, we discovered that this was not some form of rabid African raccoon, but rather a relatively docile spotted gennet.


The name of the park was also spot-on.  We were treated to the sight of massive herds of elephants.  One afternoon, we spent at least an hour watching the comings and goings of numerous elephants to one watering hole – elephant happy hour! 


We spent so much time engrossed in the elephant’s activities, that we almost missed gate closing and had to speed back to camp.  Addo is our last safari destination in South Africa – our next stop for game viewing is Etosha National Park in Namibia.

Next up, a drive down South Africa’s Garden Route, en route to wine tasting and Cape Town!

#stephandgio

No comments:

Post a Comment