Chobe, Savute, Maun
We are in Maun, regrouping after an amazing, exhausting, exhilarating run down the Chobe River and through Savute. We have spent our days watching extraordinary animals in unspoiled wilds where they always have lived. The improbability of their bodies—giraffes, hippos, elephants—amazes me, as does the delicate beauty of their markings—zebra, Chobe bushbuck, and even the ubiquitous impala—and the ever watchfulness of those who are on the dinner menu of larger creatures.
We pulled ourselves out of bed before dawn each morning to get on the road to see game and search for elusive cats. We were rewarded both by a pride of seven young lions playing in the first rays of sunlight, as well a very close encounter with a lioness and her three cubs. By the end of the day, we were dust colored from head to toe and needed a breather as much as a shower.
The Island Safari Lodge in Maun is just the kind of place for breathers. Our laundry is now done, our bodies clean, our groceries restocked, and our water and diesel tanks filled back up again.