Sorry, but yet again I can't seem to upload any images today. Will try again later or tomorrow.
Love to all xxx
Friday 27 February 2009
Well we are now at Hazyview after having 3 nights in Lesotho. As I didn't know much about it and couldn't find very much information about it I only set aside 3-4 nights there.
It is a stunning country and the scenery is the most spectacular you will see anywhere. We started by leaving Golden Gate Highland N.P. and driving to the border post of Caledonspoort in the north.
We then carried on up to the Katse Dam - my God what a road it took us hours and we got up to over 3000m in height through some of the passes. Apparently they say that even the low lying areas in Lesotho are over 1000m high! That will give you some idea of the heights you are travelling around.
The drives are absolutely amazing, tiring and hard going, but well worth it. We had a tour of the dam the following morning which was extremely interesting and it seems that only the first phase has been completed. The second phase has been given the go ahead and should be completed in 2015 I think they said.
It is a huge dam and the wall is about 284m high (I think I remember correctly). It was a huge project and nows provides the power for Lesotho as well as water to Gauteng Provence in SA.
We then travelled across the country with the roads not as good (the main road to Katse Dam is the best as it needed to be, to be able to truck in all the equipment and machinery to undertake the making of the dam). Nevertheless the views were just as stunning. The changes in weather as you travel through this country is quite awesome, getting colder as you get higher and also quite often wetter and then very hot in the lower reaches and sheltered regions.
We got to Roma about 5pm and stayed at the Trading Post Guest House, an absolute little gem of a place with fantastic staff, a big thanks to Jenny for all of the information as well.
We had a lovely dinner (my cooking again) and meet a lovely couple who have just adopted a wee boy from Lesotho. Had an early night as it had been two pretty long and tiring driving days.
Next day we went on a guided walk to see the dinosaur footprints and also learnt a bit about the Basuto way of life and culture. Very interesting and nice to get out for a walk.
We invited Mike & Laura (the couple from Canada) to join us for a potjie for dinner as we need to try and use up most of our food as we will be staying in lodges for about the next 10 days. Had a lovely dinner , good conversation and great company.
Mike & Laura we hope things are going along well with the final adoptation processes (i.e. passport etc).
We started out early yesterday morning from Lesotho to make the big trek north towards Kruger N.P. We got to the Maseru Bridge border post quite quickly and the Lesotho side was super easy. Next step the SA side which took about 30-45 minutes - oh joy! Finally got away and started the long trek north.
It was a good drive most of the way as we stayed off the main N roads and took the R roads. We only had one big hold up about 20km from Nelspruit which was about 20 minutes at the stop/go man due to road works.
We arrived to our hotel about 7.15pm last night and had dinner a few drinks and then I managed to catch up on the Super 14 results and went to bed.
Well today was meant to be one of my most exciting days as we were going to be doing the Panorama Route which I have wanted to do for years and wouldn't you know it - the fog/low cloud came down and seemed to stay day.
We started out towards The Pinnacle, God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and the Blyde River Canyon. We got to God's Window and the cloud was enveloping the car park, so we drove own towards Blyde River Canyon and saw the Potholes - loads of water and very cool. We tried to to call back in at Wonder View and God's Window, but the cloud was still everywhere.
Leanne we saw one of your trucks at Graskop this morning. I suspect the pax didn't get to see much either. I managed to watch the Crusaders v's Hurricanes this morning which was great - first rugby I've seen in ages.
Well I will now update this post and then download the new photos and then try to put some on for you all.
Love and hugs to all xxx
It is a stunning country and the scenery is the most spectacular you will see anywhere. We started by leaving Golden Gate Highland N.P. and driving to the border post of Caledonspoort in the north.
We then carried on up to the Katse Dam - my God what a road it took us hours and we got up to over 3000m in height through some of the passes. Apparently they say that even the low lying areas in Lesotho are over 1000m high! That will give you some idea of the heights you are travelling around.
The drives are absolutely amazing, tiring and hard going, but well worth it. We had a tour of the dam the following morning which was extremely interesting and it seems that only the first phase has been completed. The second phase has been given the go ahead and should be completed in 2015 I think they said.
It is a huge dam and the wall is about 284m high (I think I remember correctly). It was a huge project and nows provides the power for Lesotho as well as water to Gauteng Provence in SA.
We then travelled across the country with the roads not as good (the main road to Katse Dam is the best as it needed to be, to be able to truck in all the equipment and machinery to undertake the making of the dam). Nevertheless the views were just as stunning. The changes in weather as you travel through this country is quite awesome, getting colder as you get higher and also quite often wetter and then very hot in the lower reaches and sheltered regions.
We got to Roma about 5pm and stayed at the Trading Post Guest House, an absolute little gem of a place with fantastic staff, a big thanks to Jenny for all of the information as well.
We had a lovely dinner (my cooking again) and meet a lovely couple who have just adopted a wee boy from Lesotho. Had an early night as it had been two pretty long and tiring driving days.
Next day we went on a guided walk to see the dinosaur footprints and also learnt a bit about the Basuto way of life and culture. Very interesting and nice to get out for a walk.
We invited Mike & Laura (the couple from Canada) to join us for a potjie for dinner as we need to try and use up most of our food as we will be staying in lodges for about the next 10 days. Had a lovely dinner , good conversation and great company.
Mike & Laura we hope things are going along well with the final adoptation processes (i.e. passport etc).
We started out early yesterday morning from Lesotho to make the big trek north towards Kruger N.P. We got to the Maseru Bridge border post quite quickly and the Lesotho side was super easy. Next step the SA side which took about 30-45 minutes - oh joy! Finally got away and started the long trek north.
It was a good drive most of the way as we stayed off the main N roads and took the R roads. We only had one big hold up about 20km from Nelspruit which was about 20 minutes at the stop/go man due to road works.
We arrived to our hotel about 7.15pm last night and had dinner a few drinks and then I managed to catch up on the Super 14 results and went to bed.
Well today was meant to be one of my most exciting days as we were going to be doing the Panorama Route which I have wanted to do for years and wouldn't you know it - the fog/low cloud came down and seemed to stay day.
We started out towards The Pinnacle, God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and the Blyde River Canyon. We got to God's Window and the cloud was enveloping the car park, so we drove own towards Blyde River Canyon and saw the Potholes - loads of water and very cool. We tried to to call back in at Wonder View and God's Window, but the cloud was still everywhere.
Leanne we saw one of your trucks at Graskop this morning. I suspect the pax didn't get to see much either. I managed to watch the Crusaders v's Hurricanes this morning which was great - first rugby I've seen in ages.
Well I will now update this post and then download the new photos and then try to put some on for you all.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Monday 23 February 2009
This is the view from our 'home' in the Golden Gate Highland National Park.
Well I am trying to upload some images for you all, but they are proving very difficult.
We are heading into Lesotho today and have just tried to hide all the alcohol as they say you are not allowed to take any into the country. Hopefully they will not want to do a full search of the trailer!
We are hoping to stay at Oxbow tonight and then carry on to Katze Dam tomorrow where you can arrange a tour of this huge dam. It will all be played by ear as I don't really know much about Lesotho and therefore we will go where the mood takes us.
I am not sure if we will be able to get any wireless access whilst in there so just in case - don't worry about us we will be in there for 3-4 days I think.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Sunday 22 February 2009
This afternoon we went for a walk (Echo Ravine) which was very cool. The baboons followed us around the cliffs (must be the only entertainment they get)! They are so agile on the cliff faces and watching 3 youngsters play fighting was unbelievable - I wonder how many ever (if any) fall off??
The walk was great, but Martin decided that the track had got too narrow and wouldn't go any further. I carried on up to the waterfall at the end of the ravine and true to form did the yelling thing to see how good the echo was!
The two overhangs on either side almost, but not quite meet in the middle - see the photos I took (hopefully if it lets me upload them.
Anyway all my washing is dry and away in my drawer - yipee. Oh what fun I can hear you all saying, but you seriously have to think about these things if you are going to be camping for awhile. When you come and join us for a bit you will find out! Who's game??
Well we are just about to have drinks and then I will start cooking dinner - Chilli Con Carne tonight - with a difference as I have just realised that I don't have any chilli - oh well tabasco sauce will have to do.
Hope your all fit and well as we are?
Loads of love, kisses and hugs to all xxx
The walk was great, but Martin decided that the track had got too narrow and wouldn't go any further. I carried on up to the waterfall at the end of the ravine and true to form did the yelling thing to see how good the echo was!
The two overhangs on either side almost, but not quite meet in the middle - see the photos I took (hopefully if it lets me upload them.
Anyway all my washing is dry and away in my drawer - yipee. Oh what fun I can hear you all saying, but you seriously have to think about these things if you are going to be camping for awhile. When you come and join us for a bit you will find out! Who's game??
Well we are just about to have drinks and then I will start cooking dinner - Chilli Con Carne tonight - with a difference as I have just realised that I don't have any chilli - oh well tabasco sauce will have to do.
Hope your all fit and well as we are?
Loads of love, kisses and hugs to all xxx
This is the views around the vultures restaurant.
Well yesterday afternoon we drove around the two loops again to see if there was any more wildlife about. We saw 3 females and 1 male Grey Rhebok and alot of birdlife. This park is more about the scenery and the walks than the wildlife, it is great for birders as well.
We had a crested barbet watching over us at lunch yesterday. We also checked out the vultures restaurant again, but still nothing happening there - as Martin says it was closed! It is a feeding project whereby the local farmers come and dump any carcasses that they have got and then the birds all come in to feed. So there is no specific times when feeding takes place.
We had some beautiful ostrich steaks for dinner last night and have decided to definitely stay another night here.
This morning I did all my washing as it is a beautiful day again and a good drying day. We will go for another walk soon before it gets too hot.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Saturday 21 February 2009
Well we had rain again last night and quite heavy too! Our trailer is holding out against the heavy storms though which is great. The car still leaks a bit around the sunroof - before we got Bushwakka to put a cover on top you almost had to have an umbrella up inside!
When we went on the drives last night we saw two jackals I will try and attach a not so good picture, but at least you can tell what it is for you.
Today is a beautiful day and I think about 28 degrees or so. We went up to Oribi Loop and then walked up to see the vulture restaurant this morning, but no new carcesses so no birds around. At least we know where it is now and the views were stunning.
We then came back and put on the walking boots to do the Mushroom Rock walk - what awesome scenery there is around this whole region - you can just sit and stare all day. The overhangs on these mountains are above you when walking and depending on the wind the small waterfalls give you a wee shower now and then.
Got back for lunch and will probably do another walk this afternoon. Hope you are all well.
Love and hugs xxx
When we went on the drives last night we saw two jackals I will try and attach a not so good picture, but at least you can tell what it is for you.
Today is a beautiful day and I think about 28 degrees or so. We went up to Oribi Loop and then walked up to see the vulture restaurant this morning, but no new carcesses so no birds around. At least we know where it is now and the views were stunning.
We then came back and put on the walking boots to do the Mushroom Rock walk - what awesome scenery there is around this whole region - you can just sit and stare all day. The overhangs on these mountains are above you when walking and depending on the wind the small waterfalls give you a wee shower now and then.
Got back for lunch and will probably do another walk this afternoon. Hope you are all well.
Love and hugs xxx
Friday 20 February 2009
The spectactular scenery in the Drakensburg Mountains.
Well it seems that I am slowly... managing to get some photos on. I am still trying to get some more on, but very sorry if it doesn't work!
It has been lovely talking to mates in Cape Town over the last couple of days and I will try and speak to you all before we leave SA - which will be in about 2 weeks time.
Hoping more photos will apear for you all soon.
Love, hugs & kisses to you all xxx
A little friend I met along the way on the walk in the Drakensburg!
Well it seems that I still can't upload any photos at this stage - sorry! Will try again later and also in the morning.
It was still raining this morning so we packed up in the rain and Martin did really well! After we finished he went off to the shower and got changed and had a shower, but all was well.
We decided to head on off to Lesotho, but as the rain was so bad we stopped at The Waffle Hut and Zuluweavers for a coffee and a discussion about what was the best plan of attack! I had a lovely Jungle Waffle (bacon and banana) and Martin had an open sandwich which was huge! Lovely coffees as well and we deicded to head to the Golden Gate Higlands National Park.
What an absolutely stunning drive - the scenery around this region is something else. We arrived around 3pm and found a site that was not flooded with a concrete pad, so set up with loads of water being dropped from the Drakensburg. The tent was so wet from the morning, but at least it was sunny and dry when we set up - temperature ranged from 18 degrees fr60 when we left to about 27 degrees today.
Anyway had some lunch (late) and then decided to do the game drives. This park is more for walking, but we did the Blesbok Loop 6.7km and the Oribi Loop 4.2km, it was raining quite alot most of the time.
We got back to camp to find that our little home was home and dry! This park also has the vulture restaurant which is a feeding station for Cape Vultures and also Bearded Vultures (Lammergeiers) so we will try and head out that way tomorrow - will be awesome to see both species.
We are camped next to a river which is great and I cooked a lovely dinner even if I do say so myself! Baked potato, steamed broccoli and butternut and stuffed chicken breast wrapped in bacon. Camp fare is not so bad! When are you all coming to join us for a few days or a week????
Well Martin is a great dishwasher and Tris doesn't matter if it fits in the dishwasher or not Dad washes it!! A sight to see (and if I can upload photos you will see it)!
Well love and hugs to all xxx
Thursday 19 February 2009
Well we had a lovely dinner last night and then I had my usual coffee with amarula x 2 before going to bed. We were up quite early as it gets light really early over here. Had some breakfast and then decided to go on a walk.
You have to tell the office which walk you are going to do, time of departure and have to take with you: warm clothing as well as a waterproof, basic first aid kit, water, food, a torch and your cell phone as well. We also put on loads of insect repellant and sunscreen as well.
We decided to do the Gorge-Nandis Falls walk which is about 6.5km and takes +/-4 hours. We started out at 9.15 am (me with my packed lunch, drinks, plasters, torch, jumper, waterproof and cell phone - Martin with his water, waterproof and stick)!
What a fabulous walk, you firstly get to Sterkspruit Falls and then walk along the river. The scenery is absolutely stunning all around you. Martin said it was like Monar x 10! The mountains are certainly alot higher, greener and the paths not so steep which was a blessing.
Martin said it was like the hare and the tortoise - I would get way ahead of him and then sit and wait on a rock while he plodded along and caught me up. It was a stunning walk, very hot towards the end and we were leaking loads!
Got to the falls and they are beautiful, quite a bit of spray and you look up at them it almost seems like you are under the water falling over the edge. I had a few stops on the way up to eat my museli bars and then had the rest of my lunch at the falls.
We then started back through alot of grassland and then some lovely zig zag paths back to the office - took us just under the 4 hours to complete. We then headed straight for the shop and an ice cream and cold drink.
We then had lunch and now I have finally got Martin doing his record of the trip. He wanted to keep most of the brochures and permits, so I bought a big pad and glue for him to stick them all in order in the pad for his record. It has only taken (how long??) for me to get him started on it, but now it will be so much easier that he has started it.
Well we will love and leave you all now - hope your all fit and well.
Love and hugs to all xxx
You have to tell the office which walk you are going to do, time of departure and have to take with you: warm clothing as well as a waterproof, basic first aid kit, water, food, a torch and your cell phone as well. We also put on loads of insect repellant and sunscreen as well.
We decided to do the Gorge-Nandis Falls walk which is about 6.5km and takes +/-4 hours. We started out at 9.15 am (me with my packed lunch, drinks, plasters, torch, jumper, waterproof and cell phone - Martin with his water, waterproof and stick)!
What a fabulous walk, you firstly get to Sterkspruit Falls and then walk along the river. The scenery is absolutely stunning all around you. Martin said it was like Monar x 10! The mountains are certainly alot higher, greener and the paths not so steep which was a blessing.
Martin said it was like the hare and the tortoise - I would get way ahead of him and then sit and wait on a rock while he plodded along and caught me up. It was a stunning walk, very hot towards the end and we were leaking loads!
Got to the falls and they are beautiful, quite a bit of spray and you look up at them it almost seems like you are under the water falling over the edge. I had a few stops on the way up to eat my museli bars and then had the rest of my lunch at the falls.
We then started back through alot of grassland and then some lovely zig zag paths back to the office - took us just under the 4 hours to complete. We then headed straight for the shop and an ice cream and cold drink.
We then had lunch and now I have finally got Martin doing his record of the trip. He wanted to keep most of the brochures and permits, so I bought a big pad and glue for him to stick them all in order in the pad for his record. It has only taken (how long??) for me to get him started on it, but now it will be so much easier that he has started it.
Well we will love and leave you all now - hope your all fit and well.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Wednesday 18 February 2009
Well how lucky are we?? It appears as though I can get the wireless internet here up in the Drakensburg! We are staying at the campsite at Monks Cowl. I am just about to put a potjie on for dinner and then have a lovely shower. Today has been hot - got up to about 35 degrees in the car, but the humidity is the one sapping your energy here.
We have been having quite alot of thunder around us and a little splasttering of rain earlier on, but nothing significant as yet. We are hoping to go hiking into the mountains tomorrow - I like waterfalls and there appear to be quite a few.
Now to catch you all up to date on what we have been doing. The second day at Fugitives Drift was the morning tour to the Isandlwana Battlefield - what a huge site and loads of ground to cover. The Zulus really showed the English what a bunch of 'savages' could really do there. Joseph was our guide (and a Zulu to boot), he was wonderful just like Rob at Rourke's Drift. You really do feel like you were there at the battle itself - almost seeing, feeling and smelling it.
Got back to the lodge for lunch and then went out for a walk to see the gravesites of 2 of the English killed by Zulus whilst trying to save the 'Queen's colours' - these are on the property and was a beauitful walk as they have got quite alot of game on the farm.
Needless to say we had a fabulous time at Fugitives Drift and even though it was one of my choices - Martin thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
We then phoned Rocktail Bay Lodge to see if they had any rooms available. We were told just for two nights so booked and headed on our way across to the coast. It was a lovely drive through once again beautiful countryside. The road in was a little on the dodgy side - sand/mud and quite wet in places. We got to the gate to get our permit and were in luck as the lady had been delayed going home.
We finally arrived at Rocktail around 4.45pm. What a lovely setting for a lodge and a beautiful beach that goes on forever. We settled in and then tried to book the turtle tour, but it was full the first night. So I quickly added our names to the next night as that was the main thing we went to see. We also asked about being able to stay 2 extra nights and Tim & Hailey said that was fine and they had room - we just had to change rooms after our second night.
Next day was Valentines Day and we decided to have a relaxing day - so went for a long walk along the beach towards Black Rock after breakfast. We were sort of swimming along the way although you have to make sure that your can stand the whole time as the undertow and currents are extremely strong. Not a soul to be seen the whole time we were out (about 3 hours) was lovely.
Got back in time for lunch and then Martin had a sleep and I went exploring around the camp. I went to the bird hide and watched for a bit and also took the Hammock Trail through the forest and back to camp. So peaceful and the birdlife is great.
We went looking for turtles after dinner around 2245, we saw three nests which had all hatched that night, but we didn't manage to see any of the babies. One of the nests had been disturbed by honey badgers - they eat the young and once they are full the just kill all the rest and leave them (horrible buggers), at least we saw tracks so some of them made it to the sea.
Next day we were hoping to go diving, but it was too rough. So we went out and did the quad bike ride around the community with a local guide whole gave us a good insight into the community as a whole - very interesting.
Got back and after lunch went birding with our guide Gugu. He is fantastic, knows so much and is great with the birds. We spotted quite a few birds that I have never seen before - Rosy throated long claw and orange throated long claw - fab!!
We went out looking for turtles again and didn't see anything. It is half an hour later each night so getting really much later each night.
Next day we went on a forest trail with Gugu which was great fun, learning all about the plants, insects, cows and loads of stuff. We had a baby sleeping in the next room and it cried heaps during the night (could have killed it). You get back from the turtle tour about 1.30am so it gets later by half an hour each night as well.
We went to the hippo pool in the afternoon and also did a whole heap of birding on the way. What a fabulous place and Gugu is just one of the best guides around.
We decided to come back across to the Drakensburg as the hiking is meant to be reallu spectacular. We left a little later than we wanted (due to baby agsin during the night), but at least we got to finally see some hatchlings - awesome. Also there is loads of road works going on so we were slowed down heaps with those. We ended up staying at Thatchers Country Guest House between Newcastle and Ladysmith.
What a lovely couple, John & June Smith and a stunning place. The power went off as we arrived so we all had to eat dinner around the table by candlelight. Had as lovely chat to them about farming and business in general, also about the up and coming elections.
We left this morning in good time and stopped in Ladysmith for some shopping - I hope you all appreciate that I was sitting in the car in a carpark in the 33 degree heat updating our travels for you....
But at least I may be able to update a bit more now. I will sign off now and download all the new photos so that I can try and attach some for you.
Love and hugs to all xxx
We have been having quite alot of thunder around us and a little splasttering of rain earlier on, but nothing significant as yet. We are hoping to go hiking into the mountains tomorrow - I like waterfalls and there appear to be quite a few.
Now to catch you all up to date on what we have been doing. The second day at Fugitives Drift was the morning tour to the Isandlwana Battlefield - what a huge site and loads of ground to cover. The Zulus really showed the English what a bunch of 'savages' could really do there. Joseph was our guide (and a Zulu to boot), he was wonderful just like Rob at Rourke's Drift. You really do feel like you were there at the battle itself - almost seeing, feeling and smelling it.
Got back to the lodge for lunch and then went out for a walk to see the gravesites of 2 of the English killed by Zulus whilst trying to save the 'Queen's colours' - these are on the property and was a beauitful walk as they have got quite alot of game on the farm.
Needless to say we had a fabulous time at Fugitives Drift and even though it was one of my choices - Martin thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
We then phoned Rocktail Bay Lodge to see if they had any rooms available. We were told just for two nights so booked and headed on our way across to the coast. It was a lovely drive through once again beautiful countryside. The road in was a little on the dodgy side - sand/mud and quite wet in places. We got to the gate to get our permit and were in luck as the lady had been delayed going home.
We finally arrived at Rocktail around 4.45pm. What a lovely setting for a lodge and a beautiful beach that goes on forever. We settled in and then tried to book the turtle tour, but it was full the first night. So I quickly added our names to the next night as that was the main thing we went to see. We also asked about being able to stay 2 extra nights and Tim & Hailey said that was fine and they had room - we just had to change rooms after our second night.
Next day was Valentines Day and we decided to have a relaxing day - so went for a long walk along the beach towards Black Rock after breakfast. We were sort of swimming along the way although you have to make sure that your can stand the whole time as the undertow and currents are extremely strong. Not a soul to be seen the whole time we were out (about 3 hours) was lovely.
Got back in time for lunch and then Martin had a sleep and I went exploring around the camp. I went to the bird hide and watched for a bit and also took the Hammock Trail through the forest and back to camp. So peaceful and the birdlife is great.
We went looking for turtles after dinner around 2245, we saw three nests which had all hatched that night, but we didn't manage to see any of the babies. One of the nests had been disturbed by honey badgers - they eat the young and once they are full the just kill all the rest and leave them (horrible buggers), at least we saw tracks so some of them made it to the sea.
Next day we were hoping to go diving, but it was too rough. So we went out and did the quad bike ride around the community with a local guide whole gave us a good insight into the community as a whole - very interesting.
Got back and after lunch went birding with our guide Gugu. He is fantastic, knows so much and is great with the birds. We spotted quite a few birds that I have never seen before - Rosy throated long claw and orange throated long claw - fab!!
We went out looking for turtles again and didn't see anything. It is half an hour later each night so getting really much later each night.
Next day we went on a forest trail with Gugu which was great fun, learning all about the plants, insects, cows and loads of stuff. We had a baby sleeping in the next room and it cried heaps during the night (could have killed it). You get back from the turtle tour about 1.30am so it gets later by half an hour each night as well.
We went to the hippo pool in the afternoon and also did a whole heap of birding on the way. What a fabulous place and Gugu is just one of the best guides around.
We decided to come back across to the Drakensburg as the hiking is meant to be reallu spectacular. We left a little later than we wanted (due to baby agsin during the night), but at least we got to finally see some hatchlings - awesome. Also there is loads of road works going on so we were slowed down heaps with those. We ended up staying at Thatchers Country Guest House between Newcastle and Ladysmith.
What a lovely couple, John & June Smith and a stunning place. The power went off as we arrived so we all had to eat dinner around the table by candlelight. Had as lovely chat to them about farming and business in general, also about the up and coming elections.
We left this morning in good time and stopped in Ladysmith for some shopping - I hope you all appreciate that I was sitting in the car in a carpark in the 33 degree heat updating our travels for you....
But at least I may be able to update a bit more now. I will sign off now and download all the new photos so that I can try and attach some for you.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Hi everyone, well once again sorry, but we have been in an area which has no access! We have just spent 4 wonderful nights at Rocktail Bay Lodge on the coast quite close to the Mozambique border.
It was fabulous, only thing is that we didn't get to go diving, BUT two nights ago I was holding a wee baby leatherback turtle. Amazing, we went out three nights in a row trying to see any turtles either laying eggs or any hatchlings coming out and on our last night we were lucky.
There was about 100 of the little guys all making for the surf. It all happens so quick though from the time they break out of the nest till the time they enter the water can be a maximum of 10 minutes.
We are on our way back to the Drakensburg mountains now to Monks Cowl for some hiking. Hopefully we will have better luck with the weather, at the moment it is 33 degrees and we only have about 2 hours to go.
I will try and get back on once we get there, but just in case there is no signal I thought I would quickly put on some news for you all.
Love and hugs to all xxx
It was fabulous, only thing is that we didn't get to go diving, BUT two nights ago I was holding a wee baby leatherback turtle. Amazing, we went out three nights in a row trying to see any turtles either laying eggs or any hatchlings coming out and on our last night we were lucky.
There was about 100 of the little guys all making for the surf. It all happens so quick though from the time they break out of the nest till the time they enter the water can be a maximum of 10 minutes.
We are on our way back to the Drakensburg mountains now to Monks Cowl for some hiking. Hopefully we will have better luck with the weather, at the moment it is 33 degrees and we only have about 2 hours to go.
I will try and get back on once we get there, but just in case there is no signal I thought I would quickly put on some news for you all.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Friday 13 February 2009
Well sorry we have not been able to get access the last couple of days! The rain actually hadn't stopped in the Drakensburg so we made the decision to go and do the battlefields and coast first.
I phoned Fugitives Drift on Wednesday morning on the off chance that they would have any rooms available and our luck was in as they had a double room at the lodge. So we booked in quickly and headed off towards the Battlefields Region. When we got to Dundee we had to phone for directions.
Roads were a bit on the mucky side and several were closed due to flooding - fortunately none of the ones we needed to take! Anyway we arrived about 2.30pm and were greeted by a heap of friendly staff. We were in time to do the Rorke's Drift Tour at 3.15pm which was good news.
We settled into our fabulous room and got ready for the afternoon tour. (This was one of my choices on this holiday as Martin didn't really want to go round the battlefields). We had to take warm and waterproof clothing as unsure of what the weather would bring.
Rob Craskie (our guide) took us off to Rorke's Drift which is only about 10km up the road. We had a look around the museum for about half an hour before Rob gave us some orientation and then started in our his story. What a fabulous speaker and the passion made you really feel as if you could see and hear the whole thing going on. Very sad story and humbling as well.
We got back to thge lodge around 6pm and freshened up for dinner. Had a five course meal which was fantastic and then went to bed.
I will sign off now just so that I get something on for you all as we have started driving again.
Love and hugs to all xxx
I phoned Fugitives Drift on Wednesday morning on the off chance that they would have any rooms available and our luck was in as they had a double room at the lodge. So we booked in quickly and headed off towards the Battlefields Region. When we got to Dundee we had to phone for directions.
Roads were a bit on the mucky side and several were closed due to flooding - fortunately none of the ones we needed to take! Anyway we arrived about 2.30pm and were greeted by a heap of friendly staff. We were in time to do the Rorke's Drift Tour at 3.15pm which was good news.
We settled into our fabulous room and got ready for the afternoon tour. (This was one of my choices on this holiday as Martin didn't really want to go round the battlefields). We had to take warm and waterproof clothing as unsure of what the weather would bring.
Rob Craskie (our guide) took us off to Rorke's Drift which is only about 10km up the road. We had a look around the museum for about half an hour before Rob gave us some orientation and then started in our his story. What a fabulous speaker and the passion made you really feel as if you could see and hear the whole thing going on. Very sad story and humbling as well.
We got back to thge lodge around 6pm and freshened up for dinner. Had a five course meal which was fantastic and then went to bed.
I will sign off now just so that I get something on for you all as we have started driving again.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Wednesday 11 February 2009
Well we had a lovely drive up to Howick yesterday. We took the old main road instead of the big and busy N2 for most of the way - until we hit the road closed sign and then had to join the N2. We then turned North onto the R603 which is also a lesser road instead of the N3 - we managed to completely by pass Durban and all its traffic.
We got to Howick in good time to meet Kirsty for lunch - was great to catch up with her and all her news. Thanks Kirsty for managing to come and see us on a work day we loved catching up. I see you have become a follower too - lovely photo as well.
Richard & Clare congratulations and well done you two on the birth of your new baby boy. You will have to send us a photo on Martins email address as we can access that over here as well.
After lunch we started to make our way up into the Drakensburg's which are a pretty spectacular sight. Took a little longer than we thought, but arrived at Mountain Splendour around 5.30pm. Were just looking around the sites when the heavens opened up and the rain came down - and my God did it come down. Martin was not keen on putting up the tent and suggested we sit it out for a few minutes - well up here when it rains it doesn't stop for hours!
So the decision was made and we made our way to a hotel for the night. Not an especially nice place, but Martin was happy.
So it has now stopped raining this morning and we are just deciding on what way to go and to do - as Martin will not be happy walking in this weather and I have suggested that we go out to the Battlefields and do the tours there instead and maybe onto the coast and then maybe make our way back here - if the weather improves.
Watch this space as I have a feeling the itinerary will change alot now.
Love and hugs to all xxx
We got to Howick in good time to meet Kirsty for lunch - was great to catch up with her and all her news. Thanks Kirsty for managing to come and see us on a work day we loved catching up. I see you have become a follower too - lovely photo as well.
Richard & Clare congratulations and well done you two on the birth of your new baby boy. You will have to send us a photo on Martins email address as we can access that over here as well.
After lunch we started to make our way up into the Drakensburg's which are a pretty spectacular sight. Took a little longer than we thought, but arrived at Mountain Splendour around 5.30pm. Were just looking around the sites when the heavens opened up and the rain came down - and my God did it come down. Martin was not keen on putting up the tent and suggested we sit it out for a few minutes - well up here when it rains it doesn't stop for hours!
So the decision was made and we made our way to a hotel for the night. Not an especially nice place, but Martin was happy.
So it has now stopped raining this morning and we are just deciding on what way to go and to do - as Martin will not be happy walking in this weather and I have suggested that we go out to the Battlefields and do the tours there instead and maybe onto the coast and then maybe make our way back here - if the weather improves.
Watch this space as I have a feeling the itinerary will change alot now.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Monday 9 February 2009
Well another big driving day finished - today we were travelling across the Transkei which is huge and very hot. Got up as hot as 35 degrees today and low as 27 degrees. The heat really saps you out here as there is just no wind and it is also getting rather sticky as well as they are all expecting rain shortly (can't come soon enough they all say)!
So we are staying just outside Port Shepstone in a campsite which is on another river, not quite as nice as the last camp, but still very nice. No animals around like the last one. We had Nyala, peacocks, ostrich, bunnies, fallow deer and ibis all visit last night or this morning before we left and we heard the lions for alot of the night last night which was really cool.
Tomorrow we are hoping to catch up with a friend in Howick (Kirsty), we were travelling around Kwazulu Natal with her last year. Hopefully we can have lunch and see how she is going. Then we will carry on up into the Drakensburg mountains for a couple of days.
Well hope you are all well, Mum I put my washing into a busket with washing liquid, water and then put on the lid and let them wash themselves on the way between places - pull them out at the other end and they are done.
Love and hugs to you all xxx
So we are staying just outside Port Shepstone in a campsite which is on another river, not quite as nice as the last camp, but still very nice. No animals around like the last one. We had Nyala, peacocks, ostrich, bunnies, fallow deer and ibis all visit last night or this morning before we left and we heard the lions for alot of the night last night which was really cool.
Tomorrow we are hoping to catch up with a friend in Howick (Kirsty), we were travelling around Kwazulu Natal with her last year. Hopefully we can have lunch and see how she is going. Then we will carry on up into the Drakensburg mountains for a couple of days.
Well hope you are all well, Mum I put my washing into a busket with washing liquid, water and then put on the lid and let them wash themselves on the way between places - pull them out at the other end and they are done.
Love and hugs to you all xxx
Sunday 8 February 2009
Nope sorry still no photos tonight! Will try again tomorrow.
Ken - that was how I washed my clothes today and I used to do it on the trucks alot when I worked on them too and yes it works perfectly. Martin still thinks it a bit of hard work - nevermind he is getting there, had never slept in a tent before this trip and I have had him stay for 7 nights in a row so far so he is doing well!! We'll get there don't worry, just takes a little more time and after today I think he realised how easy laundry can actually be! Not sure how he will cope with unironed shirts just yet though??
Well will love and leave you all, at least I can tell you all about our days at this stage and will keep trying with the photos.
Love to all xxx
Ken - that was how I washed my clothes today and I used to do it on the trucks alot when I worked on them too and yes it works perfectly. Martin still thinks it a bit of hard work - nevermind he is getting there, had never slept in a tent before this trip and I have had him stay for 7 nights in a row so far so he is doing well!! We'll get there don't worry, just takes a little more time and after today I think he realised how easy laundry can actually be! Not sure how he will cope with unironed shirts just yet though??
Well will love and leave you all, at least I can tell you all about our days at this stage and will keep trying with the photos.
Love to all xxx
Well I'm still having trouble attaching photos to my posts at the moment. Will try again after I tell you all about todays day! We left the Fernery at around 9.30am which is a little too late really, we will have to both be a bit more on the ball tomorrow as it is a much longer day!
We headed towards East London, this is really just a transiting stop on the way to the Drakensburg. Tomorrow will be the same. I will try and phone you Kirsty to see if your around and whether we can get to see you. We will be making our way to Port Shepstone tomorrow and then onto the Drakensburg.
So today we started off by stopping at J-Bay (Jeffrey's Bay) to see if a particular camp shop was open to get a new chair, but being Sunday they were closed. Nevertheless we got a photo of J-Bay as it is where the Billabong Pro Series International Surf Championships are held every year around June/July - apparently they have a very good tube run then.
Carried on and stopped just after King Williams Town at a garage for toilets, fuel, food and some lunch. Our campsite is about 23 km after East London on a river called Areena Riverside Resort which is on the Kwelera River - quite a beautiful site, but would be a nightmare in the school holidays I think.
We have had ostrich, nyala and peacocks visit us when I was cooking dinner. And now we can hear lions while having our coffee with amarula!! Its pretty cool.
Hope everyone is managing to get by with all the snow in the UK??? We are very glad we are here, although our day varied alot in temperature today, starting out at about 28 Degrees, getting up to 33 in places and as low as 23 degrees close to the sea.
Whilst I was cooking dinner Martin walked around the side of the trailer to get something and walked straight into an ostrich - what a laugh as they are looking him in the eye not like most of us - made him jump and me laugh!!!
Will try and attach a photo or two now as always love and hugs and kisses to all xxx
We headed towards East London, this is really just a transiting stop on the way to the Drakensburg. Tomorrow will be the same. I will try and phone you Kirsty to see if your around and whether we can get to see you. We will be making our way to Port Shepstone tomorrow and then onto the Drakensburg.
So today we started off by stopping at J-Bay (Jeffrey's Bay) to see if a particular camp shop was open to get a new chair, but being Sunday they were closed. Nevertheless we got a photo of J-Bay as it is where the Billabong Pro Series International Surf Championships are held every year around June/July - apparently they have a very good tube run then.
Carried on and stopped just after King Williams Town at a garage for toilets, fuel, food and some lunch. Our campsite is about 23 km after East London on a river called Areena Riverside Resort which is on the Kwelera River - quite a beautiful site, but would be a nightmare in the school holidays I think.
We have had ostrich, nyala and peacocks visit us when I was cooking dinner. And now we can hear lions while having our coffee with amarula!! Its pretty cool.
Hope everyone is managing to get by with all the snow in the UK??? We are very glad we are here, although our day varied alot in temperature today, starting out at about 28 Degrees, getting up to 33 in places and as low as 23 degrees close to the sea.
Whilst I was cooking dinner Martin walked around the side of the trailer to get something and walked straight into an ostrich - what a laugh as they are looking him in the eye not like most of us - made him jump and me laugh!!!
Will try and attach a photo or two now as always love and hugs and kisses to all xxx
Saturday 7 February 2009
Well it is still really hard to get access even with wireless!! We left Knysna and headed towards Tsitsikamma on Thursday - what a beautiful drive (although quite alot or roadworks along the way). We had beautiful views of Plettenberg Bay as we came over the hill, but didn't stop in as roadworks everywhere and just wanted to get out of them.
Stopped in at Tsitsikamma National Park @ Storms River Mouth and had lunch. Then went for a walk through the bush to the Suspension Bridge - pretty awesome, although very windy and rocking alot - Mum you would have hated it.
Then we carried on to The Fernery Luxury Lodge & Chalets (Martin hasn't quite got used to the idea of hand washing his clothes at this stage - so booked in for three nights with a huge bin full of laundry! Poor girls I think it took them at least a day to wash and iron everything.
This place is just beautiful (a great Tribes place), they harvest the ferns under the pine trees in a sustainable way (the forestry people monitor how much is cut off each plant by following the workers when they are harvesting). All of the foilage is exported to Europe. We went through the packing shed and it was all really interesting, they employ over 150 local staff and that is just at the Fernery.
The chalets are beautiful and look out over the gorge to the sea very beautiful. We had a formal dinner in the dining room Thursday night which was great. Then Friday we did two walks around the farm and plantation - nice to get out and walk most days. Then last night we had an informal braai - they provide all salads, meats, starter and desert you just have to cook the meat yourself at the chalet - we had a fish braai tuna which was yummy scrummy.
Today we drove back towards Plettenbery Bay and went to Monkeyland - what a laugh, this place was set up to let monkey's that used to be in zoos, pets or orphaned from all around the world a home. There are spider monkeys which are very cheeky and try and steal everyone's lunch as there are no cages. We also saw gibbons, two different types of lemua and some Knysna Louries which was cool.
Had a great time and a good laugh. We are hoping to get to East London tomorrow and start making our way up towards Durban and then onto the Drakensburg - Kirsty I will give you a ring so that we may be able to catch up with you. Pauw & Sarah I hope you get off the ground on Tuesday - believe me it is quite hot out here at the moment today is 31 degrees - so quite a change from the snow.
Thanks for all the messages and keep them coming we love getting them.
Love & Kisses to all xxx
Stopped in at Tsitsikamma National Park @ Storms River Mouth and had lunch. Then went for a walk through the bush to the Suspension Bridge - pretty awesome, although very windy and rocking alot - Mum you would have hated it.
Then we carried on to The Fernery Luxury Lodge & Chalets (Martin hasn't quite got used to the idea of hand washing his clothes at this stage - so booked in for three nights with a huge bin full of laundry! Poor girls I think it took them at least a day to wash and iron everything.
This place is just beautiful (a great Tribes place), they harvest the ferns under the pine trees in a sustainable way (the forestry people monitor how much is cut off each plant by following the workers when they are harvesting). All of the foilage is exported to Europe. We went through the packing shed and it was all really interesting, they employ over 150 local staff and that is just at the Fernery.
The chalets are beautiful and look out over the gorge to the sea very beautiful. We had a formal dinner in the dining room Thursday night which was great. Then Friday we did two walks around the farm and plantation - nice to get out and walk most days. Then last night we had an informal braai - they provide all salads, meats, starter and desert you just have to cook the meat yourself at the chalet - we had a fish braai tuna which was yummy scrummy.
Today we drove back towards Plettenbery Bay and went to Monkeyland - what a laugh, this place was set up to let monkey's that used to be in zoos, pets or orphaned from all around the world a home. There are spider monkeys which are very cheeky and try and steal everyone's lunch as there are no cages. We also saw gibbons, two different types of lemua and some Knysna Louries which was cool.
Had a great time and a good laugh. We are hoping to get to East London tomorrow and start making our way up towards Durban and then onto the Drakensburg - Kirsty I will give you a ring so that we may be able to catch up with you. Pauw & Sarah I hope you get off the ground on Tuesday - believe me it is quite hot out here at the moment today is 31 degrees - so quite a change from the snow.
Thanks for all the messages and keep them coming we love getting them.
Love & Kisses to all xxx
Wednesday 4 February 2009
Well we had a fabulous day today. Drove out of the campsite around 9.00am and found the information centre, so we could find out which walks in the Knysna Forest were best and which road to take to get up there!
Headed out on the R339 towards Uniondale. Firstly you are driving through the townships, quite sad, horrible really - although I suppose at least they do have some sort of roof over their heads. Then up into the forest, you go through a logging region first with loads of Blackwood (I think it is a type of eucaluptus tree - looks like one and is from Australia) and also alot of pine trees.
Then you get into the forest proper with all of the beautiful native trees. We went to the office and asked about the walks and then headed off on the Elephant Walk (Red Route) which is 7km. Had a lovely walk and saw a few birds of which I have to look up in my bird book as they were new to me. Unfortunately we didn't see the Knysna Lourie, but did hear one at one stage.
It could almost have been New Zealand at some stages of the walk as they have a load of tree ferns. I will try and attach a photo later. Anyway we both really enjoyed the walk and getting out and doing something. We ended up back at the office and had lunch at the Garden Tea House - toasted sandwichs but only cheese and tomato were available today - all good after a 7km walk believe me.
We then drove back down onto the main road and headed off towards the Valley of the Ferns and maybe Spitskop Viewsite. We happended upon Spitskop first and it was an extremely windy, narrow oh did I mention narrow road for 1km to the top. The views were spectacular to say the least. You could see right out over Knysna Forest and town to the sea and almost all the way to Plettenburg Bay - stunning!
Fortunately we didn't meet any other vehicles going up or back down - no where to pass at all really. We then headed on and found the valley of ferns which was a small half km walk around in a valley - beautiful.
We then headed back into town and down to the Waterfront to book a restaurant for dinner - spoil ourselves tonight. We will be eating at Fishermans Cabin overlooking the harbour which should be good - seafood and fish - yum yum.
Then we drove down to the eastern head to see the view point and look over to the western head. Quite a tricky bar to tackle for the boaties, but gorgeous colours of the ocean and coastline.
Well I will try and load the new photos now and then attach a few for you all to see.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Headed out on the R339 towards Uniondale. Firstly you are driving through the townships, quite sad, horrible really - although I suppose at least they do have some sort of roof over their heads. Then up into the forest, you go through a logging region first with loads of Blackwood (I think it is a type of eucaluptus tree - looks like one and is from Australia) and also alot of pine trees.
Then you get into the forest proper with all of the beautiful native trees. We went to the office and asked about the walks and then headed off on the Elephant Walk (Red Route) which is 7km. Had a lovely walk and saw a few birds of which I have to look up in my bird book as they were new to me. Unfortunately we didn't see the Knysna Lourie, but did hear one at one stage.
It could almost have been New Zealand at some stages of the walk as they have a load of tree ferns. I will try and attach a photo later. Anyway we both really enjoyed the walk and getting out and doing something. We ended up back at the office and had lunch at the Garden Tea House - toasted sandwichs but only cheese and tomato were available today - all good after a 7km walk believe me.
We then drove back down onto the main road and headed off towards the Valley of the Ferns and maybe Spitskop Viewsite. We happended upon Spitskop first and it was an extremely windy, narrow oh did I mention narrow road for 1km to the top. The views were spectacular to say the least. You could see right out over Knysna Forest and town to the sea and almost all the way to Plettenburg Bay - stunning!
Fortunately we didn't meet any other vehicles going up or back down - no where to pass at all really. We then headed on and found the valley of ferns which was a small half km walk around in a valley - beautiful.
We then headed back into town and down to the Waterfront to book a restaurant for dinner - spoil ourselves tonight. We will be eating at Fishermans Cabin overlooking the harbour which should be good - seafood and fish - yum yum.
Then we drove down to the eastern head to see the view point and look over to the western head. Quite a tricky bar to tackle for the boaties, but gorgeous colours of the ocean and coastline.
Well I will try and load the new photos now and then attach a few for you all to see.
Love and hugs to all xxx
Tuesday 3 February 2009
Well at long last we have arrived into a place which has wireless access - YIPEE!!! So I have a big catch up to do for you all. Thanks for all of the lovely messages and the photos from our 'followers' it is so fantastic for us to hear from you all and also see you.
We finally left Worcester for the last time on Thursday about 3.30pm after spending a night out our campsite Rivierplass outside of Worcester just to see if we had it all okay. Only a few angry words were spoken to each other and everything seemed to go AOK!!
Anyway we headed down to the Southermost point in South Africa - Cape Agulhas and arrived about 6.45pm - little wimps that we are was too late to camp so we booked into a hotel for the night. Simon it was the same one that you and Martin stayed in.
Anyway we had a good recommendation for restaurant and drove down to Casa de Sol for our meal (after a lovely shower and clean up)! Martin will take up the story now as he got a good laugh out of it! It was just getting dark and I asked Dee if she could get out of the car and watch me back the trailer into the carpark. All was going well until Dee decided to do a disappearing act down an open manhole! The cover was missing due to them having extreme flooding in the last few days.
I parked up and wondered why Dee was looking a bit wet and very angry (to say the least)!!! Fortunately the restaurant had a good washroom and we had spare clothes in the trailer for her. I did enquire if this was a one off occassion or be a regular occurance - and she informed me it was a one off!! Okay back to me now and the worst thing was that we think it was sewage - yukky!!!
Anyway had a lovely meal and a great night in the hotel. Next day Friday we headed off to the De Hoop Nature Reserve for a couple of days. What a beautiful reserve. It is about 36,000 ha and all fynbos, the reserve rolls right onto beautiful white sand dunes and a beautiful beach. The reserve has a few rare species which we saw being bontebok, cape mountain zebra and yellow mongoose. It also has heaps of eland, ostrich, grey rhebok and steenbok. Also lots of fantastic birds.
So after 2 fantastic nights at De Hoop we then headed off to Van Wyksdorp which is inland over some beautiful mountain passes. We stayed at Jeremy's mothers campsite (one of the owners of Bushwakka). It was a lot hotter inland and on the second day being 35 degrees we headed off to the Cango Caves which was great. Just did the standard tour as Jeremy had informed us that Martin would need to take a jar of vaseoline if we did the adventure tour - some very narrow places to get through!
We then went to an ostrich farm which was a bit of a disappointment and not quite what we expected - oh well at least we now know that ostrich meat is at it's best from 14 months on up till no more than 4 years! Actually just had ostrich steaks for dinner tonight and very nice they were too! Much more enjoyable than the farm.
We then headed towards the Garden Route today going through Ladismith and Oudtshoorn and then down to Knysna. What a lovely drive - the scenery we have been seeing in the last 5 days or so have been to say the least - stunning!!!
We are running quite a bit behind schedule so have decided to not do Angola this year as we will have to cut out too much in South Africa which we don't want to do. We will have to get back to it next year???##
Pauw & Sarah we went through George today and there was a huge fire happening - hope you are all okay?
I will sign off now and then try and attach a few photos to you all as well.
Love and hugs to all xxx
We finally left Worcester for the last time on Thursday about 3.30pm after spending a night out our campsite Rivierplass outside of Worcester just to see if we had it all okay. Only a few angry words were spoken to each other and everything seemed to go AOK!!
Anyway we headed down to the Southermost point in South Africa - Cape Agulhas and arrived about 6.45pm - little wimps that we are was too late to camp so we booked into a hotel for the night. Simon it was the same one that you and Martin stayed in.
Anyway we had a good recommendation for restaurant and drove down to Casa de Sol for our meal (after a lovely shower and clean up)! Martin will take up the story now as he got a good laugh out of it! It was just getting dark and I asked Dee if she could get out of the car and watch me back the trailer into the carpark. All was going well until Dee decided to do a disappearing act down an open manhole! The cover was missing due to them having extreme flooding in the last few days.
I parked up and wondered why Dee was looking a bit wet and very angry (to say the least)!!! Fortunately the restaurant had a good washroom and we had spare clothes in the trailer for her. I did enquire if this was a one off occassion or be a regular occurance - and she informed me it was a one off!! Okay back to me now and the worst thing was that we think it was sewage - yukky!!!
Anyway had a lovely meal and a great night in the hotel. Next day Friday we headed off to the De Hoop Nature Reserve for a couple of days. What a beautiful reserve. It is about 36,000 ha and all fynbos, the reserve rolls right onto beautiful white sand dunes and a beautiful beach. The reserve has a few rare species which we saw being bontebok, cape mountain zebra and yellow mongoose. It also has heaps of eland, ostrich, grey rhebok and steenbok. Also lots of fantastic birds.
So after 2 fantastic nights at De Hoop we then headed off to Van Wyksdorp which is inland over some beautiful mountain passes. We stayed at Jeremy's mothers campsite (one of the owners of Bushwakka). It was a lot hotter inland and on the second day being 35 degrees we headed off to the Cango Caves which was great. Just did the standard tour as Jeremy had informed us that Martin would need to take a jar of vaseoline if we did the adventure tour - some very narrow places to get through!
We then went to an ostrich farm which was a bit of a disappointment and not quite what we expected - oh well at least we now know that ostrich meat is at it's best from 14 months on up till no more than 4 years! Actually just had ostrich steaks for dinner tonight and very nice they were too! Much more enjoyable than the farm.
We then headed towards the Garden Route today going through Ladismith and Oudtshoorn and then down to Knysna. What a lovely drive - the scenery we have been seeing in the last 5 days or so have been to say the least - stunning!!!
We are running quite a bit behind schedule so have decided to not do Angola this year as we will have to cut out too much in South Africa which we don't want to do. We will have to get back to it next year???##
Pauw & Sarah we went through George today and there was a huge fire happening - hope you are all okay?
I will sign off now and then try and attach a few photos to you all as well.
Love and hugs to all xxx
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