Into the Wild
The mountains of South Africa and Lesotho were incredible to experience, but I had yet to feel what the "real" Africa was like. Setting off in my little Hyundai i10, I drove about five hours east towards the country of Swaziland. The scenery was spectacular through the countryside, and the people also very welcoming. I was happily delayed several times while fueling up at the petrol stations, as the employees were curious why I was driving across random parts of the country on my own.
About half an hour from the Swaziland border, Google decided to take me on a little detour on a true African road. Luckily, my mini-car stayed together the entire time. The usual paperwork at the border crossing only took minutes, and I entered the initially mountainous landscapes of Swaziland. As I meandered my way through several valleys, I was greeted with several waves by passing schoolchildren, again curious to why I was passing through their native land. I'm continually amazed by how happy people are in all corners of the world, no matter what their situation.
My final destination was Lobamba, a decent-sized town on the outskirts of the capital city of Mbabane. After a nice dinner near a nature reserve, I prepared myself for the following day's activities. Up bright and early, I headed up the trail just behind my hostel to gain a view of the mountain plains below us. Guided by the hostel dog, I completed the short hike just in time to take in the view and head to the Mlilwane Nature Reserve. It was my first safari of sorts, so I was happy to encounter several gazelle species, zebras, crocodiles, and wild boars. However, it would be nothing compared to the following day in Kruger National Park.
It was only three short hours from Swaziland up to the park border. I found a nice room at a local backpackers and got several heaps of advice from the owner, a true man of the bush. I began driving to Crocodile Gate, one of the main entrances to Kruger, at around 5.30 AM. Even with my early start, I was greeted with an hour and a half line to get in. However, once I passed the gates I was free to drive around the entire park on my own, without the need of a guide.
Although I had to act as the driver, photographer, and game-spotter, it was still a great experience to do on my own. Only after ten minutes of being in the park, I spotted two lionesses slowly waking up, with a herd of rhinos standing strong nearby. It's amazing to see these animals out in their own habitat, and I sometimes felt quite vulnerable in my small car. From there, I saw several elephants, cheetahs, and even a leopard perching in a tree. As I was driving back towards Crocodile Gate, I was slightly disappointed that I didn't see a large pride of lions. That thought was instantly released, as that very wish was granted.
Several lionesses appeared out of the bush, along with several cubs and one large male. It was an incredible sight to see. Luckily, my car was right behind the pride. For over an hour, I cautiously followed them down the road. It was one of the most incredible wildlife encounters I have ever experienced. Even though I was amazed, the lions did not seem too concerned about my presence. They eventually scampered off into the bush, focusing on their hunt. I'm glad it wasn't me.