24

The last 24 hours have been incredible. The cheetahs we saw Monday night had a successful hunt early Tuesday morning. We came across them with their wildabeast meal while looking for lions. The sights (and sounds) were intense yet even with blood dripping down their jaw, those cats were incredibly beautiful. 

Later on, we drove through the park and saw elephants absolutely everywhere we went. We checked back on the wildabeast, and all that was left was skin and bones. Vultures and jackels were all around. Raymond, our guide, said hyenas would come by at night and eat the bones. 

We started to head back to camp and were surprised by a dinner out on the veld. Fires were dotted around to keep curious animals at bay. We can hear elephants playing in the water at a near by watering whole. The meal, like everything we've had here, was delicious. We enjoyed a large bonfire, drinks, food, and the company of the wonderful staff at Camelthorn. 

Our plan today, Wednesday, is for an all day drive to get deeper into the park. Raymond wakes us early. Change of plans he says. He's heard the lions calling and wants to do a quick drive before breakfast to see if we can spot them. It's amazing to watch Raymond track as we drive. Zimbabwe guides have intense training that goes on for years. They pick up on the smallest signs. It seemed we may not find them again, but Raymond spots movement off in the distance. We've found them!

A pride of five is drinking from a watering hole early. It's still quite cold. They are so majestic. The older female is very intense looking. I expect she is an excellent hunter. We can't stay long, but we enjoy them for a bit, take some pictures and we are on our way. I can't imagine what the rest of the day will bring.