Of Cheetahs and Elephants

(Elke) Some time to write after a long, tiring but very interesting day. This morning, we went to the Cheetah project, in a private reserve bordering to the Kamela Park. It was interesting for two reasons. First we got to see the Cheetahs (or Jagleugpar like they are called in Afrikaans). They are beautiful animals of the cat family that are threatened and therefore a breeding project was started up in that place. It was interesting for another reason: the project is taking care of other endangered species or other animals that live in difficult situations. No need to say that we have been impressed by the cheetahs, and personally I was touched by the way these animals interact with the guide. In our case, the guide was responsible of a few cheetahs and he could really describe their character and behavior. One of them in particular was said to be aggressive. And indeed, you can see it on the picture....

After a relaxing and good picnic, we moved on to the Camp Jaboulani. On the way there we met zebras and buffalos on the move, as well as a white rhino. Camp Jaboulani is said to be a unique place in Africa. They have a group of elephants with which they do walks in the bush twice a day with visitors on top. We decided to try the experience and it has been fantastic. At first, I was curious about climbing on the animal. I had been on horses before and was sometimes afraid on it. However, it was not at all the case on the elephant. For some reason, it is a very trustworthy animal that makes you feel comfortable immediately. The guide on the animal also has a very good connection with the animal as he is was, in our case, for more then 10 years already with the animal. After the climbing exercise, we went for a walk on them. On top of them you have a great view on the bush and that is really unforgettable. Also you really feel the animal. The main feeling I will remember were the sounds of the elephants (mainly when something was happening to the baby elephant - they are extremely protective!), and the fact that they have so much force to destroy trees to get their food. Unforgettable and unique experience.

(Francesco) Let's see if Elke already told everything .... yes, she did :-( ... btw the cheetah was very aggressive and bloody fast! Now, before we stop ... I received a nice suggestion about using Google maps for showing where we are. I will try to add this when we are back in Jo'burg (Johannesburg as they call it here) since in the lodges we ... kind of have internet and I believe we have none in the coming two days before Jo'burg. What can I say ... this place is really really nice. Now, off we go!