A weekend of amorous elephants

Last weekend, Jon, Veronica and I went off to spend a romantic weekend together in a family chalet at Liwonde National Park -- the same incredible place I went with Laura a couple of months ago when we shared the honeymoon suite.This time, the bathroom in the cabin had walls, an advantage with 3 people. The bathroom also had a mouse who enjoyed swimming in our toilet when not eating our soap.

Jon and Veronica were excited from the moment we stepped into the boat to take us to Camp. Warthogs greeted us as we approached our cabin, and the two of them were overcome with emotion as if seeing a double rainbow. The joy continued during our first evening safari when we saw elephants, antelopes, zebra, hippos, and everything but the rhino we were searching for in the rhino sanctuary. In fact, the driver was so intent on finding a rhino for us, that we arrived back at the gate to find it already locked – too late. Still, with gin and tonic and cold beer, who needs a lovely sunset location or a way out? We enjoyed our sunset drink while standing around the vehicle staring at the padlocked plotting our escape. Freedom rang after an hour by miraculous discovery of a “hidden” key.

The next morning, we went for an incredible morning boat safari. We saw several family groups of elephants, likely more than 60 in total, including babies, a bachelor group, and several amorous elephants. [Did you know that elephants have 5 legs? Check out the photo]. We also saw hundreds of hippos, stunning birds, and myriad crocodiles lounging on the banks. It is my third time in the park, and I still caught flies in my open mouth while staring.

Our second evening safari was slightly less pleasant (for others in the car). 2 flat tires stalled our progress – the first one was fixed with the spare, the second one left us waiting in the dark for a rescue vehicle. The newcomers in our group were less than impressed even though we did manage to see both a porcupine and a large family of mongoose. That evening, we were “treated” to a brai (South African style BBQ) and traditional dancing. It was entertaining enough, but slightly uncomfortable as many canned cultural events are. We escaped back to our cabin early and woke to the sights and sounds of munching hippos right outside. One hippo even slept in the bush next to our cabin! We went on a quick “tracks and turds” early morning walking tour and then, full bellied, made our departure. Veronica and I left Jon on the side of the road and drove on home. I promise, he wanted to be left there. Really.