Friday, September 25, 2020

While You’re Away … Sightings and Updates from Kariba and Mana Pools

It's been a pretty lonely time in the safari camps, and the only visitors seen are the wild ones, probably wondering where everyone is. But for this time of the year, the visits are usually more frequent, as different species switch their seasonal routes to the dry season. Even in Victoria Falls, the regulars are increasing in numbers – kudu, warthogs, baboons, and sounds of hyenas and lions in the distance, and even leopards!

Tourism in Zimbabwe will be opening up next week (see this post for more info Victoria Falls Zimbabwe Covid-19 update), but here's what you have to look forward to in Kariba and Mana Pools.

Crocodile hunting lions in Matusadona National Park by Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
Lion hunting crocodile in Matusadona National Park (photo - Changa Safari Camp)

An update from Changa Safari Camp in Matusadona National Park.

Lake Kariba is warming up with balmy days of 35 degrees, and the temperature will only continue to rise as October approaches.

We have had plenty of Elephant in camp, and they especially like to visit during the night to munch on our delicious trees. These occurrences are keeping our night guard & guides very vigilant.

Predator sightings are still on the rise with pride of nine Lion being seen regularly.

Our resident leopard killed a side-striped jackal just outside Tent 8 during one dinner time which created quite a loud commotion. The next morning we tracked the drag marks away from camp and found the carcass.

The Matusadona 'Lakeshore killers' have been seen with two hippo kills. Again, one right by our Tent 8. The most recent kill resulted in a classic hyena and lion standoff... The lions noisily managed to stand their ground and were seen lounging by the carcass for days to come. These kills continue to fascinate all that see them and are unique to Matusadona!

Here's a short video of a friendly visitor at Changa, plus the fabulous beach in front of camp.



Further downstream, in Mana Pools, the wildlife seemingly check in on camp staff to make sure everything's alright. Check out Africa's biggest cats taking a peek inside the lobby at Kavinga Safari Camp.



Kavinga Camp, located near the southern boundary of Mana Pools, is quite a wild place, and there's always some exciting sightings, including cheetah and leopard as well.

 

In July this year, these hyenas made their appearance and introduced their cubs.


Check out our Zimbabwe residents' Special, a 6 night combo featuring both of these camps here – Specials for Zimbabweans.


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