Into the Wild- our final evening/morning (Days 9-10); March 31-April 1
On Day Two of our time at Aquila Game Reserve, we set out at 7 a.m., which felt early given the long drive and the evening safari the day before, for a morning safari. The morning started when we spotted hippos outside of the water, a rare sight compared to the previous day when we only saw their nostrils and eyes peeking above the water’s surface. Notably, we learned that their skin is very sensitive to the sun’s rays, explaining why they’re most active in the early morning hours. We also learned that, despite their adorable appearance, hippos are the most dangerous mammals in Africa in terms of human fatalities. After spending some time around the hippos and watching the sun rise behind the mountains, we continued our drive and were able to see rhinos, zebras, giraffes, elephants, springbok and lions. In all, seeing these animals up close, creatures we’ve grown up learning about, was a surreal experience and something I’ll never forget. What an awesome way to end our trip! -Jack
During our time at Aquila Game Reserve, the gorgeous scene compelled me to constantly take pictures of my surroundings, whether or not there was an animal in the frame. My camera almost ran out of battery multiple times as around every hill, there was always something new to look at and another stunning view to gaze upon. I was not expecting that some of the animals actually lived cohesively in packs. For example, I saw zebras in herds with hippos, giraffes, elan, and even water buffalo. Every visit to the lion's paddock was as nerve-wracking as it was exciting. It looked like it would be so easy for the lions to jump into our truck, but, fortunately, they never did. Originally, I thought that the lions would be the highlight of the safari, but I think the elephants stole the show for me. The way they rolled in the mud and interacted/played with each other was such a beholding sight to see. Overall, I am extremely grateful to have seen the animals in their peaceful habitats, and I cannot wait to finish editing my photos, so I can share them. Thank you very much for this amazing opportunity. -Robert
Our time at Aquila was unlike anything we had expected. Going in, we knew we would be face-to-face with animals many of us had never seen before, but we did not expect lions and ostriches to be circling the jeep literally. Even though we were chased by a baboon that stole one of Harper's bags (it was very, very scary), this was one of our favorite days of the trip. Plus, the resort we stayed at and its all-you-can-eat buffets at every meal were amazing. - Olivia, Harper and Tilda
Thank you to ALL for following along on our PolyGlobal South Africa blog.
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| Going "Safari-ing" |
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| Elephants (and ostriches) |
