Panoramic route & Kruger National park
Day 2: A Panoramic Journey On day two of our South African adventure, we embarked on the breathtaking Panoramic Route. Our first stop was at a viewpoint overlooking the majestic Blyde River Canyon. The landscape before us was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The rugged cliffs and lush greenery of the canyon created a postcard-perfect scene, a true feast for the eyes.
Next, we made our way to a place known as "God's Window." The anticipation was palpable, as this spot promised an amazing view. However, Mother Nature had her own plans that day, and a thick mist shrouded the landscape, obscuring the view. Despite this, the ethereal atmosphere created by the mist was an experience in itself, reminding us of the unpredictability of nature.
Day 3: Kruger National Park - A Wildlife Photographer's Dream Day three was a day I had been eagerly anticipating. We rose at the crack of dawn, around 5 AM, to venture into Kruger National Park. As we entered the park, our excitement reached a fever pitch. It didn't take long for the wildlife to make its presence known. Our very first encounter was with a magnificent elephant, who seemed a bit irritated by some careless drivers who ignored his warnings.
Just when we thought the elephant had moved on, he suddenly charged out of the bushes, toppling a tree in his path and narrowly missing our jeep. It was a heart-stopping moment that left our group in awe of the raw power of nature.
Throughout the day, our wildlife adventure continued. We spotted an array of animals, including hippos, crocodiles, zebras, and the lions. For a wildlife photographer like myself, this was a dream come true. However, we missed out on seeing the elusive leopard, which completed the Big Five, leaving us with a sense of anticipation for our next visit to Kruger.
Despite the excitement, it was bittersweet that we could only spend one day in this wildlife wonderland. Nonetheless, the memories and photographs we captured will be cherished forever.
Next Stop: Swaziland (Eswatini) Our South African journey is far from over. The next day, we will be setting our course for the Kingdom of Eswatini, also known as Swaziland. This land of rich culture and stunning landscapes holds its own promises of adventure and discovery. Stay tuned as we continue to explore this captivating region.