We sat down with our friends one Sunday afternoon, from Groblesdal Frans and Denise Eksteen (mad friends I may add…. 🙂 ) some two months ago and we decided we all need a nice break……! Yes please!!! And quickly settled on destination Lake Malawi.

Round trip from Jhb – Malawi – Jhb = 4200km

Vehicle 2008 Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D4D.4X4.

And it was decided no kids…..which in inself was quite a challenge as most of them are still at school and very active with sport and, and, and…..the things kids do!

The route

We left for the dreaded Beitbridge SA / Zimbabwe’s border post  (18/04/2013) S22 13.524 E29 59.179 , and within 45 minutes we were in Zimbabwe (Gods Country)

Limpopo river

We headed for our first sleep-over, Elephant & Lion Lodge 80km from Beitbridge (S21 42.333 E30 29.996). It was by no means easy driving as there are many overloaded vehicles and heavily loaded trucks heading North! LOTS!!!

Pitstop / break

Zim 1 US$ toll gate

Zim is known to have “many” police checkpoints along all major routs, so best keep to the speedlimit at all times. Checkpoints are commonly found every 25km’s which adds extra travel time, so keep this in mind! Speed limit is 100km/h on the open road and 60km/h in urban area’s.

Our stay at Elephant & Lion was pleasant, rooms were clean and the food was good. Double room was 58 US$ and for dinner had kudu steaks!

.

Camping facilities are available at E & L, basic and rustic!

The following morning after a good cuppa we headed for Mutare (S18 59.360 E32 39.347) where we would cross into Mozambique and sleep over at Manica (S18 56.240 E32 52.884)

On route coffee and some breakkie!

Back on the road and more familiar scenes……

Fuel petrol and diesel was freely available @ US$ 1.40 p/l

Birchenough Bridge – over thr Save river, Impressive!!! (S19 57.742 E32 20.576)

Mutare, is a fairly large town. Here you can stock up with whatever from clothes to food!

After filling up with diesel we headed for the Zim / Moz border.

Border post:

The border crossing was pretty painless and we headed for Manica where we would have supper and sleep over at the Manica Lodge (S18 56.446 E32 52.070) There are about 3/4 places one can over-night.

Like Frans would say: “In sy moer gebliksem!!!”

Manica Lodge: Cost was US$ 63 per double room.

Frans looking good after some cold 2M……LOL!!!

The next day we headed for Tete: (S16 09.477 E33 35.434)

Leaving Manica:

Charcoal available along the road

Creative advertising honey and charcoal:

Another one, in sy moer gebliksem!!!

The road was good, however 80km before Tete lots of potholes were all over the road. Dodging donkey carts, trucks, cars and guys on motorbikes!

Here trucks have right of way!!!

Tete is a hussle and bustle town, and one of two crossing points from South to North in Mozambique, crossing the mighty Zambezi.

We stopped at “VIP” for some lovely pizza and bought some fresh rolls they bake daily!

Prior to our departure I had made contact with Thinus who works in Tete in the mining industry. He was kind enough to contact me as he heard we were passing through. Accommodation in Tete is scarce, camping non- existent, but with the help of Thinus he managed to accommodate us on his premises. He is in the process of building a lovely secure area for travellers passing through. Rustic, clean, lots of shade to pitch a tent! You can contact him via email to make arrangements.  thinusk@multotec.co.za

Campsite in progress with lots of shade: Campsite Tete, Thinus S16 07.013 E33 41.871

We could have easily kuiered there for another 2 days, as Thinus had lots to tell about his over landing experience! But sadly we had to move on .

We filled up with fuel in Tete as we heard there was a shortage in Malawi, so we did not want to risk being forced to buy at on the B-Market @ R33.00 p/l……!

Just outside of town a common police roadblock

We saw literally 1000’s of these trucks loaded heading towards Beira. Apparently for the Chinese!!!

Thinus had warned us of the next 100km stretch road condition and said it would be pretty rough, and he was so right!!!

Vehicles wiggling over the road everywhere for 100km took almost 3 hours….

We then finally arrived at the Moz / Malawi border post

Upon arrival….same as last time you will have about 15 runners assisting you, happy to take you money! If possible have Quachas available beforehand. You will need 25 000 Quachas for Tip and road insurance which equates to about R630.00

After which felt like forever approx.. 1 hour we were in Malawi

We headed straight for Cape Mac Clear (S14 01.685 E34 50.175) where we had arranged one nights accommodation before departing for Domwe Island the following morning.

Roadside furniture store…

And butchery!

The roads were in good condition, careful of the pedestrians!!!     

When you see this sign, you know you are close!!! :)—–>

There are two Islands you can inhabit, Domwe and Mambo

Mambo is full board and Domwe self catering. We opted to stay on Domwe for 4 nights. Bookings can only be made via Kayak Africa: http://www.kayakafrica.co.za/index.php?page=5:Kayak%20Africa%20Homepage

On Domwe there are x3 full tents and x2 campsites. We had the island to ourselves! There is a kitchen with pots, pans, cutlery gas stoves and a gas fridge. Drinks are available and recorded on an honesty basis booklet. Fresh water and ice is provided. Rustic toilet and shower and a dining table on the deck.

There are x2 helpers on the island that will assist you with hot water and anything els you require. They have a two way radio on the island and can make contact with land should it be required. Snorkeling gear and kayak’s are for hire should you not have your own.

Take some extra food along for the workers, they appreciate it !!!

On route to Cape Mac Clear, which by the way is a nature reserve:

What we had come for……!!! And the weather was great  

We spent the rest of the afternoon there and went for a walk in the local village

Our supper arrived which we had for dinner, prepared by the chef!

The village was quier as it was low season for them, however the local market was in full swing and with curio’s and fresh veggies available.

We were then treated to a typical, spectacular sunset !!!

The following morning after a healthy breakky, we got our things together and ready to board for Domwe

Waiting for our transfer to Domwe

And Off we went!!

After a quick off-load we were shown to our safari tents!

I was quite surprised to hear that “Curio, 72 years old” was still working on the island. What would the chance be that he would recognise us…..well I was 100% wrong. He greeted us with open arms literally!!!

Boat leaving for Mambo

Quick Swim!

Dining Room

So we just chilled for the rest of the day and soaked in the beauty!

The Sun started fading and the fires were Lit!!!

Curio Kindly lit the fires for us every night!

We had a lovely supper and later every evening the local civet comes for some leftovers..

Sunrise and once again a beautiful day!!!

Local fisherman returning from their evenings catch

The routine was pretty much like, wake up, have coffee, go snorkeling  have breakkie, snorkel, afternoon nap, supper and sleep.

 That evening we were treated do a spectacular lightning display!!

The following morning another beautiful day!

 Danelle Calling the Girls…

View from the look-out point

Back to Eating again…

The ladies prepared a nice meal for us hard working people….

Cat Was Back

View from our tent, the weather was a bit overcast and windy, however did not bother us as we were there to relax!

Bathroom and shower

The call of the fish eagle really was special!

Breakkie, with fresh rolls baked

Departure time…….

 All good thing have to come to an end and we said our good buy’s! To Curio and this staff for looking after us !!! Their house

Dining Room

Kitchen

Our transfer arriving

Must admit it was a sad moment leaving……but we would certainly return again 🙂

We packed the vehicle and headed for Cape Mac Clear, as I heard the Ilala had docked and wanted to have a look and get further information….

MV Ilala, formally Ilala II, is a motor ship that has plied Lake Malawi in East Africa since 1951.[2] She is operated by Malawi Lake Services and based in Monkey Bay, Malawi (on the southern end of the lake);[2] every week she crosses the lake all the way north to Chilumba, Malawi, near Tanzania (about 300 miles (480 km) from Monkey Bay)[2] and then returns to Monkey Bay. She carries both passengers and freight, and calls at major towns on both the Malawian and Mozambican coast, as well as at the two inhabited islands of the lake (Likoma and Chizumulu). While the ship is often late (reportedly by as much as 24 hours or more)[3] and has sometimes broken down[4] she remains the most important means of long-distance transport for the people living on the coast of the lake.[2] She is 172 feet (52 m) long overall, has a gross tonnage of 620 tons and can accommodate up to 365 passengers and 100 tons of cargo.

 More here:

http://www.wawamalawi.com/malawilakeferry

Today the locals use the ship as public transport. I spoke to the captain who gave me all the various “class” options you can travel on. A max of 3/4 vehicles are allowed. Next on our to do list, for sure!!!

We drove through the town, which is not much. Everything evolves around the harbour. Lots of little roadside shops

Then we spotted this little shop……yummy, just what the doc ordered! And Frans went mad….lol!!!

I am not so sure if he bought the toys for his son……or……himself…???

Anyway, we had good fun negotiating with them, as always

We headed back for Tete and the initial plan was to sleep over at Thinus….if he would let us in….he,he,he!!! But we got to Tete quite early and decided to sleep over at Manica.

……..well that was a bit of a disaster as we only arrived at Manica @ 23h00. The driving was tuff, trucks with no lights, donkey carts, guys on motorbikes with no lights……how they manage to stay alive is a wonder!!! Finding a place to sleep at 23h00 in Manica proved to be a bit of a challenge, however at 23h45 we opted for the Manica Hotel @ 75 US$ WHICH SEEMED LIKE A BARGAIN! Oh yes, breakfast included…yeah right in your dreams! Breakfast was a cup of Frisco and a roll, without butter! We laughed and headed for Zim.

The following morning we stopped in Mutare (nice town btw) for a good healthy breakkie!!! “You’re Welcome”!

Thinus recommended we sleep over at a game farm (Threeways Safari) near Lion & Elephant, which we did. Found it pleasant and the food was good!

Tokkie, the owner was very friendly and treated us just like any of his other overseas guests !!!  S21 44.908 E30 33.168

 We stopped at a few curio shops along the road and found this crock, carved out of stone, a real beauty !!! (not sure how to pay or transport it…..)

 Frans badly wanted the hippo….but no one could load it for him…lol!!!

 Well from there it was Beitbridge and home, to see our kids again!

 Regards!

Mark

So here goes another report….no pressure please time is not at hand 

Last year 2011 my wife, Danelle (OOOODS) and I discussed exploring the Southern part of Namibia as she had not been that way ie. Fish River & Luderitz area.

So plans were roughly discussed and set a date after the kids finished exams begin Dec. As time slowly moved along Crysten (14y) our daughter finished her exams and we could only leave around the 10th Dec! Was hoping to leave earlier but had little choice in the matter.

Date of return…..well when cash runs out….. 

Koos (Ou Vale1) wife Rita and Franken (good friend of ours) also showed interest and shortly were on board. Sadly Johannes van die See and his family could not join in due to his work arrangements.

The route: The round trip according to the GPS was 6459km’s 

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We all got together 3 weeks before departure date and briefly discussed the basic route and food arrangements and by this time Alec ‘Modder’ was also on board.

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No bookings were done except we decided to also include the Namakwa 4×4 route and had to obtain permits for this area: (Permit can be obtained here:http://www.linx.co.za/info/offices/nc16publ.html) Cost per vehicle is R150.00 and valid for 5 days….bargain (camping bush style along the Orange / Gariep river) You have to be self sufficient and have enough food and fresh water. Bathing was done in the river! (more details later…..) The route is approx. 230km long and proved to be the highlight of my trip 

On the 8th Dec. Alec advised that he could only leave on the 13th due to work commitments, but would catch up with us along the Namakwa route. (which never happened….  )

Packed and ready to go with a nice wet departure the night before:

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Tip: never leave things till the last minute…suppose after 10 years some never learn….   

Anyway… us, Koos & Franken left on the 10th as planned after a cuppa coffee and headed for Kuruman / Upington area where we would sleep over somewhere.
Coffee break:

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Rita, had kindly offered to bake lovely rusks and let me tell you they were wonderfull   

Finding a descent camp site proved to be difficult, as many companies and mines were having their year end functions and the camp sites seemed an ideal place for them. However we managed to find a little run down site next to a dam in Olifantshoek.

Turned out to be OK once the locals departed:

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The next morning we left at around 08h00 and headed for Upington.

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Nice town with plenty of accommodation around and has almost every store you can think of  Via Keimoes

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But first a stop at The Pienk Padstal in Kakemas S28 45.953 E20 37.068 a definite must stop at 

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Here you will have to spend at least 2 hours as there are some nice dried fruits and lots of interesting memorabilia around!

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In the ladies bathroom…..

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After a shopping spree we headed for the recommended Riemvasmaak, S28 27.851 E20 17.363

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Plenty of these nests around

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Steepish downhill to Riemvasmaak, pretty steep!

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Camping was relatively cheap: R80.00pp kids half price. Situated amongst a rocky cliffs and there are two man made pools (x1 hot) to choose from. Must say it was rather hot in that area and we opted to only stay one night.

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That evening Franken treated us with some……..yes, yes, yes   

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Chalets:

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View from above:

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The next day we would head to the Augrabies falls 

Approx. 30km trip which eventually took us 5 hours, will explain why…….

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Just 3km from Riemvasmaak we came across this fella who seriously needed help…..soon and found out he could not release his spare wheel as he had no ‘bar’ no wheel spanner and to top it all his spare wheel was flat….oh yes and no jack 

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Anyway we could assist him and within 30 mins they were on the road again 

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We headed for Blouputs and the GPS T4A route took us to nowhere, but it was fun….well for some……….    Ne Koos…..

The road took us along the Orange

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and without thinking we / I followed the road, till we hit some thick sand……and the loaded trailer bogged the Prado down 

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And within a few mins (not deflated)……I was stuck also   

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……..and it was m@er hot   

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So out with the long spade as we were in deep sjit…… 

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Franken came to the rescue and pulled Koos out  As he was observing the fiasco from a distance…. 

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The detour cost approx. 2 hours, but is was funny afterwards, watching 

And soon we reached Augrabies

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After a short walk from the parking area, we could see there was little water. But pretty, regardless 

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A number of viewpoints were still visible from the floods in 2011. No repair has been done as yet. So viewing was limited. So we headed for the restaurant for something to eat 

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Clearly Koos suggested this as heights did not make him happy   
Anyway there were plenty of rock rabbits around which entertained the kids along the route 

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Food was good as we were pretty hungry and we soon headed for Pella 

On route to Pella:

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Pella, is also where the Namakwa 4×4 routes starts: Turn-off from main road here: S29 07.617 E19 12.882

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A visit to the church is a must, approx 105 years old and pretty 

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A short while later one of the sisters arrived and asked us if we would want to have a look inside 

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Truly pretty, and near the church a museum, she also offered to unlock

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Klein Pella a privately owned date and grape farm on 58 000hec. farm along the Orange river…..wow, my kinda place    Best run and organised farm I have ever seen, with extremely friendly staff.

Just to clarify, for those that don’t know, the Namakwa 4×4 route starts in Pella and then through Klein Pella sorta day two, but you can easy stay at Klein Pella on day one or two, should you opt not to bush camp.

On route from Pella to Klein Pella:

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Klein Pella farm gate entrance:

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View from the campsite:

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More on Klein Pella to follow   

Must mention that my cousin and her husband (Mike and Sonya) from Hermansburg who left a week before us has some major car Mzda problems and called me and joined our group  They were on their way via Kgalagadi when they had to be towed in to Upington where repairs were done….only R12k damage…nothing major….ps It’s for sale….  

Camping at Klein Pella was R80p/p and as there was no rush we stayed there for 2 nights. There is a restaurant and also units available + pool. (no shop)

View of the campsite taken by Mike during a short hike:

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The next day we went for a drive aroun the ‘Small / Klein’ farm…..beautifull….I was amazed at this operation……..  Still trying to figure out why it’s called Klein Pella……..????

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One of a few irrigation dams for the date trees and grapes

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And the grapes wherever you look….huge operation this! There must be at least x10 of these vinyards…..

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Topping up one of the dams

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I have decided to forward my CV to em, I will except anything available….just to be there   

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Sunset:

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The following morning Koos made some breakkie   

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Oh JOY……….    Now the next holiday seems so far away……  

After chilling here for 2 days, we decided to start the Namakwa 4×4 route the following day, which starts in Pella, but found a shortcut from the farm 17km and decided to follow the twee spoor. We were not disappointed   

The Namakwa 4×4 route is a 5 day trail and you have to obtain a permit from here:
http://www.linx.co.za/info/offices/nc16publ.html or email Marika at marikag@namakwa-dm.gov.za

Cost is R150.00 per vehicle for your 5 day’s, and can only be driven from East to West  You start at Pella here: S29 01.963 E19 09.404 ….still don’t know if there is an office, but no one stopped or asked and ends near Vioolsdrift here: S28 52.948 E17 43.046

You could expect to drive anything from 230km – 350km in this area, there are various routes you can choose. See Mapsource mape here:

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Allocated campsites are marked, some better than other, however as we did, find a nice spot and crash. Take own wood, food, drinks, water as you will have to be self sufficient. And no cell phone reception  So best to travel min x2 vehicles 

Route is not difficult however 4×4 is required in some places. Trailer not recommended….ask Koos 

So off we headed from Klein Pella to Pella via a very scenic route:

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This friendly chap, helped with some directions 

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A taste of some more to come 

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The first part of the trail is along the river and then you head towards the mountains again and then back down to the river 

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Shortly we headed back into the mountains:

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From the main route there are a number of smaller roads leading towards the river, but be prepared to walk the last stretch, we took one of ’em 

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Anyway it was time for a cuppa, while the others checked out the interesting stone formations 

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My daughter thought she found real gold lying around….truth is the area is a gem 

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Soon we were charged up and back on the road again with takes you towards the Klein Pella farm

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A part of Klein Pella from a distance

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You can he as mentioned overnight there or head on….

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We continued as we had arranged to meet Alec and his wife at Groot Melkboom camping area

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Never travel alone =   

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This section past Klein Pella is a faster section

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And the route takes you down to the river again 

…..or rather T4A 

We ended up in some very dense bush, and I heard Koos calling over the radio:

Koos: ‘Is jy hier deur????”
Me: Ja 

Eish the Prado picked up some scratches, but had to happen sometime…..   

And then Koos…..’Waar is julle?’
Me: ‘Hier!’
Koos: Ons het ‘n draad opgetel en kan nie voort nie……
Me: Het julle hulp nodig?
Koos: Sal laat weet 

After 30 mins nothing, and we decided to head back into their direction and found these legs…..

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There must have been 1km of wire wrapped around the propshaft……

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And it was hot…………but everyone pulled in and assisted and within 2 hours of cutting and, and, and …we managed to get the wire removed. But with damage to the seal….   

Hence his new nickname….’Draadkar’  

We continued and monitored as the closest town was Sprinbok!

Back on the road again…..  You pass Goodhouse:

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And this structure:

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Stem saam 
Nog:

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Grafte

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We headed for Groot Melkhoutboom camp area….tooo beautiful  S28 53.963 E18 23.522

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Where Koos got stuck……   

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But out wit a set of trax in no time 
And then Frankin got stuck….eish……..   

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The river was very inviting 

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We pumped up the tubes and in no time were floating down some small rapids. Kids really njoyed emselves   

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After up and down the river someone had to get back as out tummies were calling 

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Die following morning we headed towards Ramansdrif camp area S28 53.162 E18 20.000,

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Once again a beautiful drive 

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Road leading towards Ramansdrif

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We stopped here as the road seemed to end

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And found some more graves

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We took a walk down towards the river and found a lovely….no awsome spot to camp   This ‘spot’ could only be accessible as the water levels were low….so Mike looked at me…….and said….’Very cool place to camp    ‘

Done  We found a road leading down towards the river and headed for the spot 

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Better than this it does not get……..   

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Mike followed!

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Then Koos and the others

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Frankin

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And soon we were set up!

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The girls quickly found a fishing spot    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1564 (Medium).JPG [ 70.67 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] OOOODS relaxing on her birthday  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1589 (Medium).JPG [ 73.67 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Attachment: IMG_8314 (Medium).JPG [ 75.4 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Kiara having a ball  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1591 (Medium).JPG [ 60.59 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] while others made turns cruising down the river Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1593 (Medium).JPG [ 90.59 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Franken supervising the pot Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1601 (Medium).JPG [ 75.76 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1606 (Medium).JPG [ 68.42 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Chilling at it’s best    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1587 (Medium).JPG [ 58.8 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1607 (Medium).JPG [ 72.61 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Attachment: IMG_8318 (Medium).JPG [ 99.02 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] Time to move on….sadly, could have spent a week or two here!!! Attachment: IMG_8323 (Medium).JPG [ 85.67 KiB | Viewed 298 times ] From here we headed in the direction of Viools border which would bring us here S28 52.510 E17 42.896 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1609 (Medium).JPG [ 138.43 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Nasty little incline which required low range  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1614 (Medium).JPG [ 132.18 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Mid morning pit stop    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1617 (Medium).JPG [ 83.04 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1619 (Medium).JPG [ 58.97 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1621 (Medium).JPG [ 91.69 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1623 (Medium).JPG [ 129.88 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1625 (Medium).JPG [ 62.76 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1626 (Medium).JPG [ 53.36 KiB | Viewed 292 times ] Road towards Viools Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1630 (Medium).JPG [ 61.72 KiB | Viewed 292 times Meet the great people that travelled with us and met  Koos ‘Ou Vale1’, wife Rita and Tommy: Prado 120 3.0 D4D Auto + off-road trailer Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 800 (Medium).JPG [ 86.66 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Busy bee Rita: Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 226 (Medium).JPG [ 71.09 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Franken ‘ Franken’ Vehicle: 4.2 Land Cruiser DC Attachment: IMG_8443 (Medium).JPG [ 62.24 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Mike and his wife Sonja (my cousin) Vehicle: Mazda Drifter 2.5 Diesel Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1600 (Medium).JPG [ 50.97 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Attachment: IMG_8556 (Medium).JPG [ 52.19 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Us: OOOOMS, OOOODS Vehicle: Toyota Hilux 2.5 D4D 4X4 Attachment: 698 (Medium).JPG [ 110.29 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] And our girls Crysten & Kiara Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 088 (Medium).JPG [ 65.38 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Members we met on route: Trevor ‘Hi-Hilux’, Anita & Keanu Attachment: 493 (Medium).JPG [ 91.21 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Willem ‘Doom’ & Elsa Attachment: 509 (Medium).JPG [ 71.57 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Carl ‘Jackal’ and his wife: Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 623 (Medium).JPG [ 73.06 KiB | Viewed 269 times ] Footloose (no pic) JC Avis and his brother Johannes ‘Zaan’ The following day the rest of us got up (wondering if Toyota Springbok) would have the correct parts…..and hoping for the best  Not nice having vehicle trouble especially if caused by loose wire accidently wrapped around the prop……  Anyway we followed the road on the Southern part of the Richtersveld heading towards Eksteenfontein S28 49.434 E17 15.258 The road quite rocky and slow in places however scenic  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1652 (Medium).JPG [ 107.88 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1655 (Medium).JPG [ 90.56 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Attachment: IMG_8372 (Medium).JPG [ 109.78 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1661 (Medium).JPG [ 107.11 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1664 (Medium).JPG [ 115.83 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1669 (Medium).JPG [ 84.45 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Beatiful view from the hill    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1670 (Medium).JPG [ 103.69 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] Spotted this fella   Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1672 (Medium).JPG [ 44.19 KiB | Viewed 251 times ] OK – Quick quizzz:?: Name the correct bird in the tree? (and no it’s not called an eagle…..    ) Now where was I……..? Oh yes on route to Eksteenfontein  Andrevt’s favourite pic……    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1657 (Medium).JPG [ 107.65 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] On route again  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1674 (Medium).JPG [ 78.64 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1680 (Medium).JPG [ 56.64 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Attachment: IMG_8375 (Medium).JPG [ 113.72 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Attachment: IMG_8370 (Medium).JPG [ 64.31 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Attachment: IMG_8376 (Medium).JPG [ 98.99 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] PS @ Doom die is nie ‘n roosboom nie……    Attachment: IMG_8378 (Medium).JPG [ 62.39 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Eksteenfontein from a distance: Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1681 (Medium).JPG [ 70.11 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1682 (Medium).JPG [ 88.2 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] This was quite funny…… my daughter Crysten’s slops broke the the previous day and she was in a bit of a panic! We told her ‘not to worry…..  ‘, tomorrow we will be in Eksteenfontein and you can shop there…..yeh right    Not sure how these little communities survive here  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1687 (Medium).JPG [ 64.98 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1688 (Medium).JPG [ 69.96 KiB | Viewed 220 times ] We only found a bottle store & pharmacy combo  From Eksteenfontein we followed a scenic route towards Sendelingsdrift S28 07.364 E16 53.414 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1691 (Medium).JPG [ 77.7 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1701 (Medium).JPG [ 106.51 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1703 (Medium).JPG [ 90.26 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1704 (Medium).JPG [ 99.48 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1705 (Medium).JPG [ 86.32 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1706 (Medium).JPG [ 150.14 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: IMG_8380 (Medium).JPG [ 87.22 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1708 (Medium).JPG [ 125.99 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Time for a cuppa  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1717 (Medium).JPG [ 102.25 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1718 (Medium).JPG [ 48.99 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1722 (Medium).JPG [ 75.99 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1725 (Medium).JPG [ 66.52 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Sign in at the entrance quickly: Richtersveldt NP gate entrance: S28 18.562 E16 56.321 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1727 (Medium).JPG [ 76.71 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1729 (Medium).JPG [ 72.04 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1728 (Medium).JPG [ 50.25 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Neat and tidy! Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1731 (Medium).JPG [ 77.56 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] And some pretty flowers! Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1732 (Medium).JPG [ 134.8 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1734 (Medium).JPG [ 47.43 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1736 (Medium).JPG [ 57.55 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] I then received an SMS from Koos advising that his Prado had been repaired and they were on the road again. They would meet up with us in Namibia (Fish river – Hobas)  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1738 (Medium).JPG [ 58.45 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 174 (Medium).JPG [ 81.59 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] We decided to sleep over at Potjiespram (name sounded good to Franken  ) Campsite D! Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1741 (Medium).JPG [ 126.78 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: IMG_8388 (Medium).JPG [ 118.81 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Roadside maintenance to Franken’s chair  Attachment: IMG_8387 (Medium).JPG [ 108.31 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] There is no power at the camp sites and the ablutions were nice and clean  Mike going for a quick dip! Attachment: IMG_8390 (Medium).JPG [ 107.47 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] Attachment: IMG_8392 (Medium).JPG [ 82.42 KiB | Viewed 212 times ] So we spent the night there and decided to cross to Namibia as Koos and ’em were already waiting for us at Fish river  Woke up to an early morning sunrise, Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1748 (Medium).JPG [ 44.38 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1751 (Medium).JPG [ 73.85 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] border opens at 08h00 so we made sure we were there at 07h30 just before the main rush, towards the ferry! And true, about x8 vehicles arrived, but we were first   Or rather Franken was  Two, two at a time  Attachment: IMG_8398 (Medium).JPG [ 81.91 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: IMG_8406 (Medium).JPG [ 43.53 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1756 (Medium).JPG [ 86.67 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Then Mike & Sonya followed: Attachment: IMG_8409 (Medium).JPG [ 64.83 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1762 (Medium).JPG [ 95.1 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Checked in at the Namibian side and on the road again! Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1767 (Medium).JPG [ 118.41 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1772 (Medium).JPG [ 68.96 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Turned right and followed the river once again    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1773 (Medium).JPG [ 68.82 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1774 (Medium).JPG [ 70.27 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1777 (Medium).JPG [ 53.7 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1779 (Medium).JPG [ 64.82 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1780 (Medium).JPG [ 71.71 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1782 (Medium).JPG [ 73.17 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] The beauty of the mountains and the freshness of the river….breathtaking…..    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1784 (Medium).JPG [ 77.42 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1785 (Medium).JPG [ 67 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] And more…. Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1788 (Medium).JPG [ 118.27 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1789 (Medium).JPG [ 83.68 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1795 (Medium).JPG [ 56.84 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Stunning piece of gravel this (C13/D212 [Gravel])    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1796 (Medium).JPG [ 84.18 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: IMG_8416 (Medium).JPG [ 76.43 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1801 (Medium).JPG [ 103.24 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Time for a break  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1802 (Medium).JPG [ 97.89 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Then some time ago I read an article about a short riverbed drive in a WegRy Mag and jotted down the co-ords…..(Tx Ali & Team) this was awsome  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1823 (Medium).JPG [ 97.84 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: IMG_8424 (Medium).JPG [ 67.9 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] I would have camped here…..but Koos and his crew were expecting us at Hobas  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1829 (Medium).JPG [ 136.92 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1835 (Medium).JPG [ 105.63 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1836 (Medium).JPG [ 67.01 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] So we pushed on! Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1838 (Medium).JPG [ 54.81 KiB | Viewed 509 times ] Turn-off to the canyon is here: S28 16.452 E17 22.105 Exit here: S28 12.656 E17 26.287 a nice 20km drive! And on we drove towards Hobas where we we would meeet up with Koos & Rita! Attachment: IMG_8436 (Medium).JPG [ 69.91 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1868 (Medium).JPG [ 54.26 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1844 (Medium).JPG [ 58.21 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Saw this sign half way up the hill    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1890 (Medium).JPG [ 40.96 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1892 (Medium).JPG [ 110.4 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1897 (Medium).JPG [ 60.88 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1898 (Medium).JPG [ 72.38 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1904 (Medium).JPG [ 58.52 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1905 (Medium).JPG [ 75.54 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1906 (Medium).JPG [ 94.04 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Upon our arrival, Koos and Rita had already prepared a lovely potjie for us hungry one’s  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1907 (Medium).JPG [ 88.57 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1912 (Medium).JPG [ 93.84 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Lovely shaded campsites Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1914 (Medium).JPG [ 39.91 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1916 (Medium).JPG [ 99.84 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] With a pool    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1915 (Medium).JPG [ 84.2 KiB | Viewed 460 times ] That afternoon we would take a 15km drive and watch the sun set over the canyon’s viewpoints  Attachment: Some pics of the Fish river: Awsome place  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1917 (Medium).JPG [ 109.39 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1920 (Medium).JPG [ 139.77 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1928 (Medium).JPG [ 89.92 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1932 (Medium).JPG [ 112.69 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] From here there are a number of various viewpoints we visited Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1935 (Medium).JPG [ 115.94 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] Start of the hiking trail Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1937 (Medium).JPG [ 114.25 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1941 (Medium).JPG [ 82.45 KiB | Viewed 455 times ] And so another beautiful day ended….. Attachment: Some rain in the distance with the sun rising behind  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1968 (Medium).JPG [ 53.37 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Some aaaaarsstrech with her little one’s  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1969 (Medium).JPG [ 79.51 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Some more is taken in the morning  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1972 (Medium).JPG [ 106.88 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1982 (Medium).JPG [ 118.49 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Time for a cuppa  Attachment: IMG_8451.JPG [ 719.16 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Then on to Canyon Roadhouse: S27 31.472 E17 48.932 You can easy spend 4 hours here reading all the signs and has plenty of memorabilia  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 1997 (Medium).JPG [ 81.21 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2000 (Medium).JPG [ 72.56 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2004 (Medium).JPG [ 147.2 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2006 (Medium).JPG [ 70.56 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2008 (Medium).JPG [ 86.75 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Gents: Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2032 (Medium).JPG [ 60.78 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Ladies: Attachment: IMG_8472.JPG [ 762.91 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2013 (Medium).JPG [ 68.45 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2015 (Medium).JPG [ 42.07 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2017 (Medium).JPG [ 78.92 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2018 (Medium).JPG [ 87.09 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2020 (Medium).JPG [ 44.84 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2022 (Medium).JPG [ 72 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2023 (Medium).JPG [ 73.16 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2025 (Medium).JPG [ 82.23 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] And when last did you see this……? Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2028 (Medium).JPG [ 34.28 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] From there we headed to Seeheim S26 48.947 E17 48.017 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2042 (Medium).JPG [ 55.54 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] But first some roadside lunch  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2043 (Medium).JPG [ 84.69 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Jaffels……..    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2047 (Medium).JPG [ 133.51 KiB | Viewed 424 times ] Attachment: Seeheim Hotel: Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2052 (Medium).JPG [ 110.37 KiB | Viewed 411 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2053 (Medium).JPG [ 113.15 KiB | Viewed 411 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2054 (Medium).JPG [ 75.46 KiB | Viewed 411 times ] Quick brain teaser: First correct answer wins a Hilux 4×4 Club sticker   What was placed in this oven / used for  Attachment: IMG_8481.JPG [ 577.05 KiB | Viewed 411 times ] Attachments: We moved on to small town called Aus and deided to camp at Klein Aus just a few km’s down the road, lovely ampsite they have in the hills  Fish river bridge Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2055 (Medium).JPG [ 59.84 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2061 (Medium).JPG [ 50.41 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2063 (Medium).JPG [ 52.96 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Church in Aus Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2065 (Medium).JPG [ 65.21 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Camp site Klein Aus S26 39.093 E16 14.717 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2069 (Medium).JPG [ 67.05 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: IMG_8493 (Medium).JPG [ 117.02 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2071 (Medium).JPG [ 72.14 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2072 (Medium).JPG [ 65.85 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2076 (Medium).JPG [ 80.45 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: IMG_8510 (Medium).JPG [ 64.12 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] And plenty of these around…..this really made Koos happy…..    Attachment: IMG_8515 (Medium).JPG [ 75.91 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Let me tell you these creatures are everywhere and had us all in stitches…..  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2090 (Medium).JPG [ 97.34 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] The following morning we headed towards Luderitz, but first a stop to see the wild horses Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2095 (Medium).JPG [ 58.11 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2125 (Medium).JPG [ 109.79 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] At first nothing, then they slowly came in to drink  Attachment: IMG_8526 (Medium).JPG [ 100.1 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: IMG_8535 (Medium).JPG [ 94.32 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2097 (Medium).JPG [ 83.23 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2108 (Medium).JPG [ 109.65 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2115 (Medium).JPG [ 101.57 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2114 (Medium).JPG [ 103.05 KiB | Viewed 535 times ] Quite amazing how the have survived here in the desert…..  Off towards Luderitz S26 38.897 E15 09.248 On route to Luderitz some interesting station houses Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2127 (Medium).JPG [ 71.57 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2129 (Medium).JPG [ 51.4 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Change of scenery Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2128 (Medium).JPG [ 68.19 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Initially the plan was to amp at Shark Island, but the wind was blowing so bad, it would have blown our RTT off the vehicles….I think….? So we opted to look for a bakpakers  And Franken found a nice place for us  Some interesting buildings around Luderitz  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2131 (Medium).JPG [ 69.83 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2132 (Medium).JPG [ 79.7 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2133 (Medium).JPG [ 56.58 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Churh where my gran was baptized Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2134 (Medium).JPG [ 53.71 KiB | Viewed 520 times ] Attachment: IMG_8564 (Medium).JPG [ 183.57 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: IMG_8562.JPG [ 575.33 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Harbor Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2136 (Medium).JPG [ 73.67 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2141 (Medium).JPG [ 76.42 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2142 (Medium).JPG [ 66.5 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2143 (Medium).JPG [ 71.42 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Shark Island campsite. Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2149 (Medium).JPG [ 60.77 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2153 (Medium).JPG [ 69.53 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Then we headed for Dias point….after a quik fish and chips lunch    Attachment: IMG_8542 (Medium).JPG [ 55.93 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Off to Dias! Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2161 (Medium).JPG [ 56.7 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2162 (Medium).JPG [ 65.34 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2165 (Medium).JPG [ 47.3 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2168 (Medium).JPG [ 98.06 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2169 (Medium).JPG [ 88.99 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2174 (Medium).JPG [ 67.44 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2183 (Medium).JPG [ 59.79 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Some more campsites here! Sleeps approx 6 Attachment: IMG_8553 (Medium).JPG [ 65.8 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Lower deck Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2196 (Medium).JPG [ 88.65 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] or Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2198 (Medium).JPG [ 73.6 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Sleeping arrangements with fold up beds Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2199 (Medium).JPG [ 108.81 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Abutions Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2200 (Medium).JPG [ 82.62 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2201 (Medium).JPG [ 51.65 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Time for a hot cuppa  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2203 (Medium).JPG [ 70.8 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] Attachments: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2148 (Medium).JPG [ 39.41 KiB | Viewed 522 times ] We decided to stay over at a backpackers and found this old ‘still running’ Deutz overlanding truck parked in the driveway. The owner travels through Africa and was doing some preparations for his next expedition……! On their last trip they got stuck somewhere in Botswana for 3 months, hence the boat on the roof and used it to paddle to town to get supplies…! Who needs a vehicle    Possible new entry for the 2013 Dakar    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2328 (Medium).JPG [ 94.61 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] ….and the scooter also goes along….    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2329 (Medium).JPG [ 95.87 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2330.JPG [ 701.5 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2331 (Medium).JPG [ 90.64 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2324 (Medium).JPG [ 67.08 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2323 (Medium).JPG [ 44.76 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] The following morning we visited Kolmanskop  Very interesting indeed, I would really recommend a guided tour if you have not done it yet  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2215 (Medium).JPG [ 89.29 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2216 (Medium).JPG [ 71.36 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2218 (Medium).JPG [ 42.13 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2308 (Medium).JPG [ 73.52 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2221 (Medium).JPG [ 43.96 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2237 (Medium).JPG [ 48.47 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2229 (Medium).JPG [ 70.62 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2242 (Medium).JPG [ 42.45 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2243 (Medium).JPG [ 63.66 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2279 (Medium).JPG [ 56.96 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2281 (Medium).JPG [ 62.94 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2286 (Medium).JPG [ 101.11 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2303 (Medium).JPG [ 76 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2305 (Medium).JPG [ 88.75 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2306 (Medium).JPG [ 89.36 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] More info on Kolmanskop ghost town: http://www.encounter.co.za/article/87.html http://www.wilkinsonsworld.com/2010/09/ … olmanskop/ Strange how most visitors were looking around on the ground, in hoping to spot a lost forgotten diamond……    Well, the following day it was time to say goodbuy (sadly) to my Mike and Sonya as they had promised to be home before xmas with the family. Franken also wanted to spend time at Etosha so we said our goodbuy’s   We, (Koos / Rita & us) headed for Sesriem  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2332 (Medium).JPG [ 60.94 KiB | Viewed 508 times ] We chose the scenic route  Down the C13 and left on the D707  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2349 (Medium).JPG [ 60.54 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2351 (Medium).JPG [ 68.82 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] We passed a farmhouse approx. here (S26 28.594 E16 28.981) not listed on T4A, the board said Coffie, Biltong & Camping…..so we stopped and popped in! Very friendly reception by the farmer and his wife  (Will post details when I find ’em). The lady showed us her new campsites (nice  ) clean ablutions. They will be offering day trips into the dunes (red dunes) very cheap, something like R125.00 pppd which is part of their farm, soon  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2345 (Medium).JPG [ 106.81 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2370 (Medium).JPG [ 50.66 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2379 (Medium).JPG [ 68.73 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2380 (Medium).JPG [ 63.88 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Breakfast on the go    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2385 (Medium).JPG [ 100.64 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2397 (Medium).JPG [ 76.46 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2399 (Medium).JPG [ 68.51 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 2403 (Medium).JPG [ 92.59 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] We headed for Bathesda lodge S24 37.165 E15 59.468 as recommended by ChrisF (I think?) as being a nice camp site  And nice it certainly was  Lovely clean pool, friendly staff and we just chilled. We stayed here x2 nights. Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 121 (Medium).JPG [ 117.79 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] The following morning it was up early a 40min drive to the dunes Sossusvlei S24 29.178 E15 47.880. (permit office) Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 005 (Medium).JPG [ 46.11 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 010 (Medium).JPG [ 50.54 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 016 (Medium).JPG [ 57.36 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 025 (Medium).JPG [ 50.4 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Water……..still from the recent unusual rains  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 026 (Medium).JPG [ 47.7 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Rita, Tommy and Crysten walking to the top……  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 027 (Medium).JPG [ 48.31 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 044 (Medium).JPG [ 31.65 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] And made it  Crysten on her way down  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 056 (Medium).JPG [ 31.01 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 057 (Medium).JPG [ 50.51 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Then Rita, where she gets her energy from……I have no idea  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 063 (Medium).JPG [ 50.33 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Dune buggy  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 065 (Medium).JPG [ 96.32 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] The we headed towards Sesriem Canyon S24 31.114 E15 48.014 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 070 (Medium).JPG [ 47.42 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 074 (Medium).JPG [ 115.34 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 079 (Medium).JPG [ 105.73 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 080 (Medium).JPG [ 74.08 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 082 (Medium).JPG [ 55.73 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 093 (Medium).JPG [ 58.38 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 096 (Medium).JPG [ 59.75 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 098 (Medium).JPG [ 101.55 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 100 (Medium).JPG [ 96.6 KiB | Viewed 500 times ] Quick Q? Q: Where does Sesriem Canyon get it’s name from? Click here to show the answer! http://www.wilkinsonsworld.com/tag/sesriem-canyon/ From here we headed toward Walvis Bay S22 56.985 E14 30.900 via the C14/M36 Attachments: And OOOOMS was about to demonstrate to us his mountaineering skills to see if the eagle had chicks in the nest Attachment: DSCN0989.JPG [ 110.18 KiB | Viewed 475 times ] Attachment: DSCN0988.JPG [ 137.16 KiB | Viewed 475 times ] Missed the shot where he saw his AGT however…………………… Off to……S23 53.480 E16 00.484 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 136 (Medium).JPG [ 103.67 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] And you can get some nice treats    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 137 (Medium).JPG [ 67.27 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] See some interesting things  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 139 (Medium).JPG [ 82.62 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] And fill up with some gazolene Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 135 (Medium).JPG [ 74.35 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] There are also camp sites available here should you wish to stay over, nut we were heading towards Walvisbay  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 147 (Medium).JPG [ 65.2 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] A very scenic route indeed! Route C14/M36, next time we would however get the permits and explore into many ‘restricted area’s / permit required’ roads  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 151 (Medium).JPG [ 67.85 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 158 (Medium).JPG [ 102.69 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 165 (Medium).JPG [ 72.08 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 174 (Medium).JPG [ 81.59 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 175 (Medium).JPG [ 90.72 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 181 (Medium).JPG [ 38.65 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Walvis bay! Nice neat clean town and we stopped here at the P&P for some supplies Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 186 (Medium).JPG [ 90.47 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] We noticed a lot of new development going up around the area, mus be due to the oil they found along the coast…. Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 188 (Medium).JPG [ 48.76 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 190 (Medium).JPG [ 44.77 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] We decided to camp at Sylvia’s (not my kinda camp site as it was very over crowded and pretty noisy) but options were few……  ) as all the places were full in and around Swakop S22 40.712 E14 31.353 Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 194 (Medium).JPG [ 92.91 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Most shops were closed in Swakops, so we spent the day on the beach with the kids  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 208 (Medium).JPG [ 71.26 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 228 (Medium).JPG [ 77.13 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 230 (Medium).JPG [ 53.11 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 232 (Medium).JPG [ 88.47 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 235 (Medium).JPG [ 99.85 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Koos and Rita advised that they had to start heading home as ‘work’ was calling, so we would now travel on our own. We chatted with some camp buurman, who was afraid to drive the riverbed alone, so we decided to show them the beautiful riverbed the next morning. Drive approx. 70km towards Usakos and there is a very nice ‘twee spoor’ road leading into the canyon. PM me for details or co-ords. Then there is a short but tricky section you need to go through (not to be done alone) as my friend with his Navara almost….almost rolled his vehicle here. Luckily we managed to get him out of the situation….. frikkadel dit was amper en daarna moes hy sy rocksliders maar beskadig….  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 239 (Medium).JPG [ 72.4 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 240 (Medium).JPG [ 89.5 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 244 (Medium).JPG [ 99.62 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 247 (Medium).JPG [ 91.61 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 251 (Medium).JPG [ 109.24 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 252 (Medium).JPG [ 133.42 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 254 (Medium).JPG [ 130.31 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Man all I can say was he was damm lucky…the rear wheel was approx. 1m off the ground and the front wheel barely touching the ground…. Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 255 (Medium).JPG [ 128.93 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] It took some time to calm him down, but after the first turn I heard his voice over the radio…..dis flippen nice hier    Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 256 (Medium).JPG [ 108.06 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] …and for our second time, it truly was  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 261 (Medium).JPG [ 85.06 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 265 (Medium).JPG [ 73.66 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 268 (Medium).JPG [ 101.27 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 269 (Medium).JPG [ 104.23 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 274 (Medium).JPG [ 52.98 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Breakkie  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 278 (Medium).JPG [ 94.92 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 281 (Medium).JPG [ 89.55 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 282 (Medium).JPG [ 92.85 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] We drove approx. 40km’s in the canyon towards Swakop and exited here at this mine Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 286 (Medium).JPG [ 60.24 KiB | Viewed 380 times ] We said our goodbuy’s and headed for town for some B&B accommodation which was not that easy to find as everything was fully booked, however we managed to find a cancellation made earlier that day  The next day I called Trevor ‘Hi-Hilux’ who was in Henties and advised that were would be passing through adn he kindly invited us for some coffee…..or shall I say I invited myself     Tx Trevor, gerat seeing you guys again! Willem ‘Doom’ and his family kindly nagged us to come and say hello at Mile 110 and after a brief discussion with my wife agreed that we would go and visit them as we were in the area only 180km from where we were. Attachment: Upon our arrival at Mile 110 (St Nowhere) we were directed to the VIP stands where Willem – Doom and his family were camping! Certainly has it’s advantages with a man of his stature  We quickly introduced ourselves and I new straight away ‘hier gaan ons lekker kuier’  And so we did  Attachment: Namakwa Namibia 2011 331 (Medium).JPG [ 76.95 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] This place is not a camp site for every Vaalie and his wife…..you need to be pretty well rigged for wind, rain and some cold air  But clearly it was not their first time here, Willem had everything including the dishwasher    Attachment: 509 (Medium).JPG [ 71.57 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Who said it was hot in Dec…..? The following day we decided to take a drive to the Messum Crater: Satellite view: http://www.satelliteviews.net/cgi-bin/w … wa&DG=CRTR On route to the crater we stopped a many Welwitchia plants along the route  Attachment: 511 (Large).JPG [ 73.24 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 516 (Large).JPG [ 163.12 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 518 (Medium).JPG [ 52.45 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 522 (Medium).JPG [ 119 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Lizzy: Attachment: 521 (Medium).JPG [ 154.98 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 531 (Large).JPG [ 112.09 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Back on the road again, first to the Ugab River Attachment: 513 (Large).JPG [ 76.25 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 536 (Medium).JPG [ 92.06 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 537 (Medium).JPG [ 102.22 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] The most beautiful mountains    Attachment: 538 (Medium).JPG [ 105.81 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 542 (Medium).JPG [ 89.76 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 544 (Medium).JPG [ 122.39 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 547 (Medium).JPG [ 140.73 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 549 (Medium).JPG [ 108.23 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 550 (Medium).JPG [ 104.68 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 551 (Medium).JPG [ 130.13 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Then we came across this…    Never seen an underground water vein before  Attachment: 559 (Medium).JPG [ 148.83 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 556 (Medium).JPG [ 112.24 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 555 (Medium).JPG [ 100.26 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 557 (Medium).JPG [ 100.88 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Heading towards the crater we stopped off at an old mine. Amazing how these miners survived here and the structures (small settlements they put up  ) Attachment: 563 (Medium).JPG [ 97.53 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 564 (Medium).JPG [ 139.62 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 566 (Medium).JPG [ 180.66 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 571 (Medium).JPG [ 85.27 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 572 (Medium).JPG [ 99.43 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 576 (Medium).JPG [ 94.92 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 577 (Medium).JPG [ 98.46 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachment: 580 (Medium).JPG [ 88.42 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] On route to Mussem Crater! Attachment: 585 (Medium).JPG [ 52.77 KiB | Viewed 329 times ] Attachments: When viewing the area / crater is you need quite some imagination as to the size of the area as it apeared some 130 million years ago! (Andy may remeber this though…. ) The crater is large estimate 7km across…? Could be more! Attachment: 591 (Medium).JPG [ 104.99 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 595 (Medium).JPG [ 98.45 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 608 (Medium).JPG [ 115.18 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Not exactly exiting stuff for kids….  Attachment: 611 (Medium).JPG [ 97.51 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 612 (Medium).JPG [ 142.2 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 615 (Medium).JPG [ 103.48 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Pretty place though  We searched for the so called bushman paintings but were obviously looking in the wrong place…..    Attachment: 618 (Medium).JPG [ 73.66 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Others also….. Attachment: 619 (Medium).JPG [ 125.33 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] So we made our way past the Brandberg, and headed home as time was catching up…! Attachment: 626 (Medium).JPG [ 80.95 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 652 (Medium).JPG [ 54.79 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Doom’s campsite at night  Attachment: 634 (Medium).JPG [ 41.42 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] We had a really good time with Doom and his family and hope to see ’em soon again  The following day we headed for Spitzkoppe: Attachment: 661 (Medium).JPG [ 50.58 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] And then to Okahandje via Usakos Attachment: 667 (Medium).JPG [ 48.48 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 669 (Medium).JPG [ 56 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] In Okahandje we headed for the Hotel…….  Attachment: 686 (Medium).JPG [ 93.38 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] ………..but found only this little sign on the gate….’Sorry we are closed….!!!’ In December……  Attachment: 685 (Large).JPG [ 68.72 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] So we headed for another campsite, which was pleasant Okahandje rest camp. Attachment: 687 (Medium).JPG [ 106.39 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 688 (Medium).JPG [ 119 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Kids seemed happy enough  ……..and clean…..  Attachment: 716 (Medium).JPG [ 76.13 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Sunset! Attachment: 722 (Medium).JPG [ 76.91 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] The following morning we were off to Mariental via Windhoek. We contacted Franken to see how he was doing (in Etosha) and advised that he was also heading South. Attachment: 731 (Medium).JPG [ 37.8 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 733 (Medium).JPG [ 59.39 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 735 (Medium).JPG [ 61.32 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 738 (Medium).JPG [ 63.92 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Pit stop. Attachment: 751 (Medium).JPG [ 108.64 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Then the earth got flatter and flatter! Attachment: 764 (Medium).JPG [ 48.39 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] A quick stop at the Spar for supplies in Mariental and were off to Stampriet S24 20.747 E18 24.456 farm. Lovely place  Attachment: 790 (Medium).JPG [ 81.14 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] We spent the rest of the day lazing around the pool! Attachment: 788 (Medium).JPG [ 111.54 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 787 (Medium).JPG [ 112.78 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] At around 18h00, a familiar looking cruised pulled in!  Franken had joined us    Attachment: 791 (Medium).JPG [ 99.36 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: 789 (Medium).JPG [ 81.55 KiB | Viewed 314 times ] The day ended once again with a beautiful sunset  Attachment: 810 (Medium).JPG [ 39.26 KiB | Viewed 315 times ] Attachment: ust a few km’s up the road we passed the Kalahari Anib Lodge and wify wanted to stay over here as the pics from a brochure was pretty nice! And so it was  There are only x3 campsites here so best you book this one. They also have x2 swimming pools and horses, a zebra wandering about the pool area, restaurant, bar & game drives  The kidz liked this  Attachment: 827 (Medium).JPG [ 60.35 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] They are also part of the Gondwana Collection and we have joined! It’s a no brainer, for more info read here: http://www.gondwana.collection.com Attachment: 833 (Medium).JPG [ 140.3 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 842 (Medium).JPG [ 95.31 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 845 (Medium).JPG [ 133.84 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Campsite: Attachment: 854 (Medium).JPG [ 99.1 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Very friendly staff, will certainly recommend it  Attachment: 883 (Medium).JPG [ 84.35 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 893 (Medium).JPG [ 89.38 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 894 (Medium).JPG [ 101.98 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] After a nice breakkie it was time to move on the C15 towards Koes S25 56.045 E19 07.264 (pronounced Kwes)  Very scenic route indeed  Attachment: 895 (Medium).JPG [ 76.76 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 907 (Medium).JPG [ 52.23 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 913 (Medium).JPG [ 66.58 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 918 (Medium).JPG [ 47.8 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] That they can say again!!!! Attachment: 929 (Medium).JPG [ 117.67 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 933 (Medium).JPG [ 78 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] And bumped into Forum member Jackal and his wife at the garage  Attachment: 932 (Medium).JPG [ 73 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] On route Attachment: 937 (Medium).JPG [ 89.47 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Salt pan Attachment: 951 (Medium).JPG [ 55.36 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 957 (Medium).JPG [ 46.63 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 961 (Medium).JPG [ 70.74 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 963 (Medium).JPG [ 54.44 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 973 (Medium).JPG [ 47.48 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Nam / ZA border control Attachment: 981 (Medium).JPG [ 51.74 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 985 (Medium).JPG [ 49.3 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Reality sinks in…..oh darn the holiday is almost over…..  Attachment: 990 (Medium).JPG [ 61.98 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 994 (Medium).JPG [ 55.26 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] We headed to Molopo Kalahari Lodge…options are few here….place nice indeed! Attachment: 995 (Medium).JPG [ 84.93 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: 999 (Medium).JPG [ 65.68 KiB | Viewed 482 times ] Attachment: All good things come to an end, and we had to break away from our wonderful travelling partners (duty calls). Headed from Swakop through Windhoek (unfortunately on a Sunday because I still have an argument with their local brewer about the cost of their product compared to what we pay in SA for imported stock) and camped over at Gobabis . Attachment: DSCN1099.JPG [ 106.77 KiB | Viewed 390 times ] And a sudden thunderstorm forced us to take shelter under an unpaid and unoccupied safari tent Attachment: DSCN1103.JPG [ 108.19 KiB | Viewed 390 times ] Storm gone and the most beautiful sunsets Attachment: DSCN1117.JPG [ 121.43 KiB | Viewed 390 times ] Into Botswana and heading home we aimed for Kang and decided to book a log cabin rather than setting up camp. Had some great Botswana beef fillet on the coals and watch the sun go down on the Kalahari Attachment: DSCN1129.JPG [ 92.03 KiB | Viewed 390 times ] The rest was donkeys, donkeys, SA border control intimidation for a bribe, toll roads, potholes and ……………….. maar dit was great Ooooms, Ooods, kids, Franken, Mike & Sonja

Well, I might as well share this quick 10 day trip to the Namakwa….. 

Frans aka Hou da nou da from Groblersdal contacted me (as he does every holiday…..  ) for a quick trip he has been looking forward to for some time…..

So we agreed and quickly made bookings for April 2012 with Namakwa District Municipality (Tourism Office) Email: marikag@namakwa-dm.gov.za
Website http://www.northerncape.org.za
Private Bag X 20
Springbok
8240
Tel.027 712 8035
Fax.027 712 1421

Cost of the 5 day trail is R150.00 per vehicle (bargain….  ) however you need to be self sufficient during this period 
Map info:

Attachment:

 Appendix 1.doc [151.5 KiB]
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Vehicle / occupants:
Myself / wife (Danelle 0000DS) – Hilux Vigo DC 2.5 D4D – Crysten (14) & Kiara (6)
Frans / wife Denise – Hilux Vigo 3.0 D4D – x4 kids – 2, 9, 11, 13y

Round trip Jhb / Jhb 2746km’s

Day 1 was to push through to Upington approx. 800km’s via Koster, LIchtenburg, Vryburg, Kuruman and then Upington. There Cobus aka Kaspaas recommended we stay over at Oranjerus Camp site (S28 38.350 E21 07.107) and we were not disappointed one bit  Nice green grass with shaded camping area, pool, bar, restaurant, braai facilities and immaculate bathrooms. (Rate 80.00pp kids U13 R40.00) And on the bank of the Orange river 

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That afternoon Khalahari Seun & Kaspaas came to visit as we had not met before…..What nice guys  Please do contact them if you are in the area, they know it well and will gladly to assist 

The following day (Sunday) we took some time to explore the area Kanoneiland and some of it’s attractions…..no much but pleasant 

Cobus had kindly invited us on a tour of Oranjerivier Wine Cellers which we obviously agreed to just before Keimoes  Was an interesting tour to say the least and some……wine was drunk……only a little  

And obviously we had to take some home 

After a nice tour we had to say our goodbuy’s and headed for Kakamas. But first lunch @ Vergelegen Restaurant, also recommended and not disappointed at all  S28 45.105 E20 38.626
Expect some of these on route…… 

n Kakamas we stopped traditionally at ‘Die Pienk Padstal’ for some snacks….. 

D

From here we headed to the recommended farm Raapenskraap S28 37.454 E19 30.550 (via the Onseepkrans road) and the campsite was wonderful and rustic!!! We were the only people there and had the place to ourselves  Bit of a bush camp, next to the Orange river, with a donkey, nice fireplace and wood for Africa  What more could we ask for  For R100 per vehicle per night, not bad !

There are also a few guest houses available, should you not want to camp.

The campsite

Oh yes carefull the thorns……   

Supper, hamburgers and chips on the fire, kids favourite 

They farm here mainly with grapes and lemon’s and is part of Karstens Boerdery !

The following day we headed S/E towards Pofadder S29 07.509 E19 23.796

When in Pofadder main spar or whatever they call it, make sure to get some delicious billies……don’t forget to share…… 

Anyway from there we moved to Klein Pella farm (S29 00.343 E19 00.705) also mainly farming grapes and dates (export) and part of Karstens Boerdery. Camping here was R150.00 per vehicle, swimming pool, braai facilities, clean ablutions and friendly staff  There are also some rooms available for those who do not wish to camp and a small restaurant and bar facilities.
Pella here:

Campsite view 

Kids enjoying the pool….

Afternoon nap for some…… 

Such a relaxing place we decided to stay for 2 nights 

For the next day which is actually part of the Namakwa4x4 route we left most of our goods at Klein Pella camp site as we would do the circle route to Pella about a 6 hour drive.

Type in these co-ordinates S29 00.902 E19 01.166 which will take you from Klein Pella to Pella viaa very scenic route 

Once you get to Pella follow these co-ordinates which will take you through Charlies Pass  Ask the locals for directions should you get lost, absolutely worth the drive   Follow these co-ordinates S29 01.319 E19 10.432

Stunning scenery 

The pass eventually takes you to the banks of the Orange river 

hen along the route we spotted this road…..on the Namibian side…..and ‘other’ thoughts were going through my mind. Where does it come from, why and leading down to the river?

Anyone driven this road before  T4A shows no road there…… 

Clearer view of the road.

So along the river just North of Pella heading East (oh yes….forgot to mention, for those that don’t know the trail can only accommodate 10 vehicles per day so bookings are essential as well as the ‘permit’ for the Namakwa4x4 trail! The trail can also only be driven from East to West, thus eliminating traffic I suppose 

Found a nice spot in a dry riverbed 

Time to cool down 

Frans almost getting into a bit of a situation…..   

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Luckily he managed to get out……but later it would be my turn…..  

From there it’s another hour drive to the farm Klein Pella, where we would overnight again 

Break 

Some more date plantations

Pickers still at work at the end of the season

O….K, where was I….. 

The older girls slept outside as the weather is still pleasant

While the younger one’s felt better in the tent

We left Klein Pella or shall I say the kids left KP with heavy hearts, towards Grootmelkhoutboom

Witbank, a small settlement on route

Ruins

Almost at Groothoutmelkboom and I was getting hungry……  For a sarmie and some coffee……However when we got there the group ahead of us were still chilling there….. 

So we stopped and said our hello’s…just passing through…won’t stay long and disturb the peace……

Danelle said ‘lets leave rather….’ Me not happy agreed and pulled away in a huff….not far and……..damm, STUCK 

Front wheel….

Back wheel….

All wheels…..   

Frans quickly deflated his tyres and came to assist with a tug  Tx Frans 

Back to he Klein Pella camp site

So off we headed to out favourite camping spot, Ramansdrift  

And that was that  We decided as we have no further bookings we would stay here, no further 

What more can one ask for 

We really had an awsome time here and the ladies even remembered to pack easter eggs for the kids 
Some more pics

Kids even managed to catch some fish, this entertained them quite somewhat 

If you like loud music, malls and crowds….this is def. not for you…. 

Here I must add the awnings came in pretty handy, there is little shade in this area 

Sunrise

Easter some easter eggs for the kids, which they enjoyed! Another advantage of having x2 fridges – they come in quite handy 

The following day/s we just spent chilling next to the river. Kids loved the riding the small rapids with the tubes…..& kept them occupied 

Frans trying for the big one….

And this is what I live for 

It doesn’t get better than this… 

The following morning waking up to this was awsome, pic from RRT   

Packed and ready to rumble……

We could not exit the way we came in as the water was rising, so found an alternative 

Back on the road again

We found this fella crossing the road….3 inches long!

From here we headed towards Augrabies, Khamkirri

http://www.khamkirri.co.za/

As my birthday present OOOODS suggested we go away…    …which sounded just like a fab idea 

Initially we planned to go to South Luanga (Zam) however time would not be on our side as we only had 9 days of holiday.

So we decided to visit Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

Frans (Hou da nou daar) and his wife, Denise (from Groblesdal) have been very keen and decided to join us. (x4 kids – 2, 8, 10, 12y)

Frans towed an off-road trailer and myself, wife and x2 daughters (6, 14y) went with my DC with x2 roof tops.

So we chatted one Sunday afternoon and quickly finalized the food arrangements and general stuff….

The plan was to avoid Beitbridge (for obvious reasons….  ) and travel through Botswana via Zanzibar border post
Francistown
Nata
Hunters road
Pandamatenga border (into Zimbabwe)
Vic Falls
Hwange National Park
Bulawayo
Plumtree border (back into Botswana)
Francistown
Zanzibar back to ZA

Total km’s 3006km (Jhb – Jhb)

We left on 02/10 Sunday at 02h00 as Zanzibar border post only opens at 08h00 and would meet Frans and his family at 05H00 in Pietersburg (Polokwane). From there we would travel together and reach Zanzibar by approx. 07h30. The last 16km to the border is pretty badly corrugated gravel road.

The girls were nice and comfortable in the back after a nice morning sleep 

Zanzibar border crossing has two low water bridges and is not always open, depending on the level of the river. However we had no problem at all. Upon our arrival at 07h45 there was only one vehicle and took us about 45mins to complete both sides. No problems!

Water crossing in ‘no man’s land’ 

Botswana side: Please note, take Botswana Pula to pay for your road tax (TIP) if you are planning to exit the country and re enter, ask for a re-entry pass. It is cheaper!!! Cost around 160 Pula for a vehicle.

Just outside the border post is a lodge called Oasis and next time we will sleep over there for sure  Starting a trip at 02h00 in the morning is for da young ones….. 

From the border we drove to a nice picnic spot +-50km (boabab tree) and had some well deserved breakkie 

Back on the road again….towards Selebi-Phikwe

At Serule we encountered our first vet check point, but no problems at all 

Heading towards Francistown, there was another vet check point, however they just wayved us through. We filled up with Diesel and where the ladies popped into the Spar.

Once again it is much easier paying in Pula   

Frans, Frans, Frans……   

The road was very busy to Nata as the locals celebrated some National holiday….

We headed off for Nata, where we would stay overnight and rest at Elephant Sands lodge approx. 50km North of Nata:

We found a nice campsite and decided as there was a pool, pub and restaurant and animal drinking hole we would relax here for two nights 

The camp site was was not spectacular imo, but we had some ellies visiting us that night about 5m from out vehicles….while we were fast asleep………..  

Some more pics of Elephant Sands campsite, pool & lodge: Camping US$10.00 kids US$ 5.00

At around 18h00 some ellies came for a drink 

Campsite:

Girls helping with the salada

Heinie in a bit of a situation……   

That evening the rangers found a dead leapard 30m from the water hole. Apparently it was hit by a passing vehicle……sad sight 

There were quite a few ‘international’ visitors in the campsite, however they were quiet and not a problem at all 

The next day we just lazed around the pool and had some cold one’s 

That evening a few more visitors and this time right in the campsite 

The kids found this quite facinating and plenty of other visitors 

We took the turn-off to Hunters road and really an amazing drive  There are some side roads withe really very thick sand  Downside is it took us almost all day to complete 180km, as the going was slow but well worth it 

There were plenty of ellie droppings however we only managed to see a few of em 

The bush was dry and in need of good rains 

Eventually we arrived at Pandamatenga border post, but the troops were hungry so we stopped of for some toasted sarmies 

There was also no fuel available (near Pandamatenga), not even at the truck stop however we were OK  As we could get fuel in Zim. So after our expensive toasteds we headed for the Zim border.

Small but neat border post with ‘time’ not really being a factor…….

From the border a gravel road about 65km which lead us to the turn off to Vic Falls

Here we saw lots of animals as well as herd of buffalo 

The roads in Zimbabwe were very good condition and off we headed to Vic Falls ‘The Smoke that Thunders’

From the gate to the falls not far you first see Livingstone 

The falls – once again spectacular   

Then the stiff walk back to the campsite….

Just before the campsite, there is a Pizza and Ice-creap parlour….we had to stop   and decided to have lunch at the pool before leaving for Hwange 

Before leaving for Hwange, Frans had to add diesel to his KZ……outch Diesel in Zim was R13.60 p/l……  Anyway, what can you do….zilch!   

So off we headed South towards Hwange and…..outa the bush jumped a uniformed man flagging me down me to stop…’Eish officer was I speeding’

  ‘Yes Sir, I hope I am not going to spoil your holiday’ he replied in a very friendly manner  US$ 20.00 fine, so I gave him (them x3) a tip for cooldrinks and we parted as friends.

He kindly advised that there was another trap 70km from there…nice guy really 

10km’s further….a toll gate US$ 1. But we were well stocked 

Kids enjoyed the ride…really   

Brick factory along the road

So off we headed to Sinamantella Camp (there are two Main camp sites, the other being Hwange Main camp….  ). Upon our arrival at the gate, I saw old original buildings as they were in the 70’s. Seems everything has been left as it was before 30 years ago and time has rather stood still. We paid and were directed to the campsite….wich was rather barren, no grass, just soil and no trees with broken down braai area’s.
A friendly worker offered to bring us wood with a smile.

The view however was very nice, on top of a small mountain and one can see for miles 

As it was getting rather late in the afternoon we decided to head for the nearest water hole! Approx. 15km from camp.

Upon our arrival we raised our eyebrows as this was far better deal than Sinamantella Camp. It is a pvt. campsite and you have to pre book. However there were no other campers in sight.

A friendly ranger (William) came to us and asked us if we were the guests staying over? Nope but we could certainly be….. 

So he radioed the Main office and they said that if the ‘booked people’ were not there by 18H00 we could camp there but would have to pay in the difference as the pvt camp sites were more expensive.

It was a no brainer and Frans quickly drove back to the office and settled 

What a beautiful setting right in front of a large dam, with plenty of hippo’s, crocs and fish eagle to put the cherry on the cake so to speak 

So within minutes we had a nice fire going 

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The tents were up in a flash!

We spotted a number of huge crocks lying on the banks of the dam.

CHECK OUT THIS ONE    Those little ones in the water are hippo’s…I would be afraid….. 

Best camping bush food ever 

This time we took along a large foil dish, easier to dispose of 

Heat up the oil, under a roaring flame until piping hot (this takes some time….!)

Throw, the chips into the oil…carefull and stand back, as the oil falls into the fire and walla 

Repeat at least twice a week…   

So after a lovely breakkie the next morning,

ranger William asked us if we would like to take a walk around the dam…..hmm, me thought, oh well why not, so off we went. The kids really enjoyed this  ….me well no fine….I was watching ranger William, as his eye’s were in the bush, looking for lions and thirsty buffalo…. 

Heinie just loving it….. 

We stopped for some snacks 

Where we felt safe 

Until we found these…..    Mamma’s eggs, a few metre’s away… 

So we left quietly………..!

Was an awsome walk getting close to the hippos’s and crocks  Tx to ranger William who allowed it 

.

There is plenty of birdlife around so a definate must for birders  

And the cutest birds…..   

After the 3 hour walk aroound the dam…..afternoon laze around watching the wildlife around the water 

The next morning we headed for main camp, and heard over Wilson’s radio that a pride of lion had pulled down an elephant at an onroute water hole. So we headed in that direction, asap.

Girls loaded!

When we arrived at there were x3 huge males lying around, protecting the remains…..I have not seen huge lion’s like this in a long time…..   The valtures were hanging around as well as a jackal, waiting for the big boys to leave, but they remained….. 

There were about x8 hippos in the water I could see,

and within 30 mins it was like happy hour  Ellies came in from all over the place, from all directions for their afternoon drink  

What an awsome sight    Later a heard of buffalo and some giraffe also pulled in 

eading towards Main camp the road was fair to very poor, with some bad pot holes in places….the tipe where it is better driving on the side of the road…. 

We encountered a number of ellies and my imperssion was they were very skittish. Obviously ‘man’ afraid due to poaching and so on   

Some huge bulls roaming around….

We arrived at the Main gate, paid at the office 

Still all as it was 30 years ago…. 

There is a basic restaurant. shop with some goodies and a poorly / expensive curio shop. (very basic)
 But importantly, a variety of beer 

The campsite was empty at our arrival but another x4 vehicles arrived later that afternoon / evening. Nice shady trees with lots of ablution blocks. The cleanest abutions I have ever come across   

Lots of these okes wandering about, so pack away food stuffs….

I would certainly not hesitate camping here again 

The gals doing the dishes….. everyone has a job…very important 

Mine supervising…   

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That afternoon we came across a herd of +50 ellies at this drinking hole. What an awsome sight  Babies, males and bossy females   

Some playing in the mud:

Daughter had the best view….. 

All good days have good endings 

Supper alla Denise….pasta and mince…not my all time high, but something different and very tasty 

………..anyway………the kids seemed to enjoy it 

These are only for show…..there is no fuel available in the park.
There is however a small town 10km away, who can supply, called Dett. When we got there, we were told the owner with the key was at the police station, as he had not renewed his ‘fuel’ liscence, so we went to the station, found him and he gladly topped up the KZ (once again….)

The next morning we headed for Bulawayo (280km) form Hwange Main and came across these funny signs….WTH is a painted dog???

Low and behold….my daughter spotted the Painted Dogs ….   

Amazing 

Then off to Bulawayo around 270km….with 2 or so more US$ 1.00 toll gates, but the road was good 

I was really looking forward to Bulawayo, and was reaaly amazed how clean everything was 

Sorry petrolheads……. 

Really a pretty town, even today 

Some more of B 

From there we headed for Plumtree border post back into Bots, to avoid BBridge…….

Once throuh the border we headed for Francistown, where we would overnight.

We opted for Woodlands…nice place! But the unfriendliest staff ever…well that’s another story….never again 

Nice camp area, ablutions and pool 

 The next morning a quick cuppa and hit the road….

Through a couple of vet points, no problem 
Only in a Toyota!!!

Some boababs, along the road towards Zanzibar border post 

Once through the Bots border post we stopped halfway in no mans land for breakkie 

Almost done….

All of us 

The long road home…..

Some tips and hints to follow 

The end   

Tips:

– Two way radio’s with two or more vehicles are not an option…..a must 
– Use currency of the country   
– Be friendly and patient, especially at border and vet check points ie. let your wife do the talking… 😳 
– Make sure you have warm clothing, it can get cold in the evenings
– Take spare slops / shoes along
– Take 2/3 camera’s along, you may miss something
– Ensure all fridges, connections are tested before the trip. At least 4 weeks in advance.
– Keep to the speed limit at all times
– Have a comprehensive medical bag…very handy!
– Take a few nuts, boltz & washers along, they come in handy
– Don’t go looking for relrctive tape the day before you leave….AA has for between R10 – R20 p/m 
– Up-to-date GPS, makes looking for campsites, filling stations, shops easy!!!
– Paper map, the kids understand it better