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Okahirongo Elephant Lodge

North-West, Namibia

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is situated near a small settlement called Puros, in the heart of the Kaokoveld in Namibia. Our annual rainfall average was around 20mm last year and this year we had over 250mm consecutively. The Huarosib River was in full flood and we enjoyed river rafting in truck tubes down the river. Unfortunately, we have no pictures of this adventure, as it's impossible to take a camera with you. The desert elephants stayed in the area this year, which is something new, seeing that they normally disappear into the mountains over the rainy season.

This picture was taken just before a major storm we had late in the afternoon.

Cottars 1920's Camp

Masai Mara, Kenya

Unexpected rains in January turned the whole of our concession green. We saw a tremendous increase of plains game, which in turn led to increased sightings of cats. Both our resident prides of lions had new cubs, making this one among the largest surviving Mara prides. To top off an excellent season, a leopard snatched a baby zebra from the lawn outside the mess tent as guests were enjoying sundowners.

Garonga

Limpopo Province, South Africa

Since the release of the Garonga Cheetah's, Purdey and Browning, there have been many sightings of the two brothers over the past few weeks. They are totally chilled, well fed, and seem to be enjoying themselves out there in the wild having been cooped up for two months rehabilitating.

So far so good. Luckily they have taken to the Garonga Area as opposed to going way out on the Reserve, and the Guides are able to produce some excellent sightings of them.

Mfangano Island Camp

Lake Victoria, Kenya

Life on the Lake - Mfangano has lots to celebrate. The roots of President Barrack Obama's are from this enchanting part of Kenya. Another local phenomena from Mfangano Island Camp was the unusual sight of two flamingo flying past the camp. A large flock of Abdim's Storks have settled in our Giant and ancient fig tree.

While our camp is not only about the stunning wild life, 25 students of the Mfangano School have attained a worthy grade for university education.

Sand Rivers Selous

Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania

2009 has started out hot and dry at Sand Rivers Selous. Some of the smaller lakes have dried up and their crocodiles and hippos have moved into Lake Segesse. This has made for a spectacular game viewing experience. The pods of hippo lie in the middle of the lake with egrets using their backs as stepping stones. As space is limited, there are frequent, noisy squabbles between everyone. The rains are on their way, already the few showers we've had have left the Selous carpeted in a green lawn.