The morning game drive
With a gentle shake of the wake-up call, my heart races as I prepare for the first game drive. The sounds of the bush awaken my senses—the call of birds, the rustle of leaves, and the distant roar of a lion. I gather my essentials: a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and my camera, ready to capture the memories.
As we hop into the open-top vehicle, the guide introduces himself with a warm smile. Sharing deep knowledge of the flora and fauna sets the tone for an immersive experience. As the engine starts, I can feel the thrill of adventure pulsing through me.
Driving through the rugged terrain, I scan the landscape. Suddenly, our guide stops the vehicle, and my breath catches in my throat. Just ahead, a magnificent herd of elephants emerges from the thicket. Their majestic presence is overwhelming. I watch in awe as they interact, mothers tenderly guiding their calves while the larger bulls assert their dominance. The sight is both humbling and exhilarating.
A World of wildlife
We continue our journey, and each turn reveals a new marvel. Giraffes gracefully browse on acacia trees, their long necks stretching to reach the tender leaves. A pride of lions’ lounges under the shade, their golden coats shimmering in the sun.
Our guide shares fascinating stories about each species we encounter, illuminating the intricate web of life in the bush. His passion is contagious, and I find myself hanging on every word. I’m learning not just about the animals but also about the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
The morning’s highlight comes when we spot a cheetah—perched on a rock, surveying her territory with a watchful gaze. Her beauty and grace captivated me, knowing she was one of nature’s most skilled hunters. I snap photos, hoping to capture the essence of this fleeting moment.
Lunchtime reflections
After a thrilling morning, we returned for a sumptuous lunch. As I savour the delicious meal, I share stories with fellow like-minded people, our eyes alight with shared excitement. Each person has their own tale, and it’s fascinating to hear how diverse backgrounds have converged in this magical place.
Between bites, we discuss our morning encounters. I can’t help but smile, reflecting on the wonder of seeing animals in their natural habitat.
An afternoon adventure
Fuelled by a delicious lunch, it’s time for the afternoon game drive. This time, we venture to a different area of the reserve. The heat of the day brings a stillness to the air, and I remain alert, scanning the bushes for any signs of movement.
Our guide suddenly spots fresh tracks in the sand as we drive along a winding path. The game-drive vehicle slows down, and we set off on foot to follow the tracks. The thrill of tracking animals adds an exhilarating layer to the safari. My heart races as I tread carefully, simultaneously feeling excitement and a hint of nervousness.
We stop as we come across a waterhole. The sight of a solitary hippo basking in the mud is a reminder of the diversity of life here. Moments like these make me appreciate the beauty of the African wilderness.
Magical sunset
As the sun begins to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, we find a perfect spot to stop and take it all in. Our guide pours us drinks, and we sit in awe, watching the day come to a close. The serenity of the moment washes over me, and I can’t help but reflect on the beauty and majesty of the wild.
Suddenly, the air fills with distant lion roars echoing across the plains. It’s a reminder that this land is alive, filled with stories unfolding in real-time. I realize I’m not just a spectator but part of a larger narrative, a beautiful dance of life in the African savanna.
The journey home
As the day comes to an end, I feel a profound sense of gratitude. My heart is whole from the experiences I’ve had, the knowledge I’ve gained, and the connections I’ve made. The stars begin to twinkle in the clear night sky, and I know that this safari is not just a trip; it’s a transformative journey that will stay with me forever.
Once returning, I sit listening to the sounds of the night—crickets chirping, the distant call of an owl, and the rustle of leaves in the breeze. I can’t help but smile, already dreaming of my next adventure in this beautiful, wild world.
A safari is more than just an escape into nature; it’s a chance to connect with the wild, learn, and grow. Each experience shapes us in profound ways, leaving us with memories that last a lifetime. If you’ve ever considered going on a safari, take the leap. The wonders of the African wilderness await, ready to leave their mark on your heart.
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What to expect from the Professional Field Guide course?
We join EcoTraining Training Manager David Havemann, who gives us insight into the one-year Professional Field Guide course, including its structure, a breakdown of the various shorter courses within it, what you will learn, and the mindset you might take from it. At EcoTraining, we create Guides and Guardians of nature. We are guardians of the land, looking after the integrity at our doorstep and wherever we go. Join us today as we give you a sneak preview into a year of becoming a Professional Field Guide.
