So lots has happened since my last post. I made it to South Africa with no problems after a long 16-hour flight. Fortunately, I flew "Economy Plus" which didn't cost much more, but gave me 5 extra inches of leg room. It may not sound like much but it made a huge difference. I also sat next to a very petite young South African woman who didn't take up much room.
Jacques Senekal, owner of Africa Maximum Safaris and a good friend, picked me up at the O.R. Tambo International Airport and after a short drive to his Woodstock Farm we were greeted by his lovely wife Natalie and their two children, Danielle and Jean. All of the other clients were waiting for "Uncle Bob" to arrive for dinner. Apparently, Natalie had been regaling them with stories of hunting with Jacques.
The next day we began our drive to Zimbabwe. After 10 or so hours on the road, we stopped at Nata Lodge in Botswana. The next day we crossed out of Botswana and into Zimbabwe. I must say that the border crossing were relatively painless but did involve walking from building to building to get all necessary stamps for us, the vehicle and the firearms. Of course, when we got to the final checkpoint, the lone gate guard did not check any of our stamps.
After another 3 or so hours, we arrived at Bingwa Camp (Bingwa is a Swahili word that means "expert" or "competent, although the local people here are Shona and Ndebele), my home for until September 18. Bingwa is located in the Matetsi Safari Area of Zimbabwe. Here we will bait for Leopard and Spotted Hyena (which we can hear at night). We will also try for Chobe Bushbuck and Side Striped Jackal.
There is another party in camp from Minnesota that is trying for a Sable and a Cape Buffalo. Jerry, Cathy and Cyndi will be good camp companions. Jerry is 69 so for one of the first times I will not be the oldest hunter in camp.
I must keep these short because of the slow upload speed here. If there are not photos, you will know why!
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