Boats and automobiles

We woke up on Tuesday to a foggy, hazy day with the smell of bushfire strong in the air. We woke up really early as we wanted to be at the gate of iSimangaliso park when it opened. At 6AM.

We were hoping to see some animals still on our wishlist, like the Elephant and the Leopard. Starting early might just give us the edge we need.
Luckily for us, the fire seemed to be on the dumpster and controlled, while the haze and fog lifted soon after the sun rose high enough to burn it away.

It turned out to be a fantastic day, with lots of animals seen, but without the elusive two missing species.

We booked a tour on a boat to go see the Crocodiles and Hippos at 3PM, which meant we also saw the sun setting whilst on the water, being surrounded by Hippos. What more to wish for?

At nighttime though, we were back in the park to try and find the nocturnal animals. We did see a lot! Including the endemic Chameleon and lots of Night Jars and bucks.  The most special moment was when we encountered a pair of Rhino and the guide decided it was a good time to enjoy a hot beverage just meters away from two giant animals. Ultimately, we thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend a similar tour to anyone in this neighbourhood.

Tomorrow, we are going to Hluwhluwe Imfolozi park. Again, we are sad to leave our current place, but we must go on as there is lots more to see!