Kruger National Park
From Jo'berg, Kruger National Park was about a 7 hour drive. After we finally arrived and got settled into our hotel, several of us felt like venturing out into the woods. There were signs everywhere that said it was dangerous to leave the hotel grounds, but that did not stop us. We wanted to see some wild animals! Our bravery lasted about 10 minutes, because as soon as we saw the 1st sets of eyes shining in the darkness (they belonged to some giant wildebeests), we ran in silence back to the safety of our rooms.
June 10th
The day began with a 6AM morning game drive and ended with a 10PM evening game drive. I was so exhausted by the time we got back to our room. The safari gods and goddesses were certainly looking out for me though, since my jeep spotted the most animals.
The park was really amazing with its vast savannas, abundant wildlife, and long conservation history. We saw all of the "Big 5" (on the first day is quite rare): lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and black rhinos, as well as many other species.
Before the evening game drive, we had dinner in the middle of the bushland. The animals could approach us at anytime, thus the guides had to be ready to protect us. Sure enough half-way through the meal the guides jumped up in attention, as a hyena had wandered within feet of us. It stayed for 20 minutes and then left as quickly as it had come. It was such a surreal moment!
June 11th
We had another all day game drive, in which I spent pondering the last two extraordinary weeks of my life. I had heard a quote by the President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, that really resonated with me. He said, "I am like a cosmic wanderer, driven by the winds to land where they will." The winds took me to Africa and now I could not get her out of my mind. Is it possible that the reason why she touched me so deeply is that she is the birthplace of humankind? Is she in my DNA and I am forever connected to her? As I walked along Africa's earth, I walked along my roots. Mother Africa. I will surely miss her, but I know that I will return...many, many times.
June 12th
Off to New York City...
