From Wokingham to the Mavuradona Wilderness in Zimbabwe

Riding with Godfrey the groom behind

The following morning we were up bright and early to head off into the Wilderness proper and to our next destination - the Bat Caves Camp. Fortified with a delicious breakfast we saddled up and we were off. The weather, as throughout our holiday, was perfect. Blue skies, cool in the morning becoming warm around mid day and cooling again in the evening.

We rode for approximately 2 hours through varied terrain, until stopping for lunch. We dismounted, unsaddled the horses, and walked a short distance to a beautiful clear pool where we decided to have our picnic lunch. We were joined by several little lizards who obviously regarded Jane as a friend and happily ate our crumbs. Gordon decided the rock pool looked too tempting and was brave enough to venture in for a swim. Although the mid day temperature was extremely pleasant, the water temperature was extremely cold. I think he succeeded in frightening the Lizards!

We mounted again and rode on for approximately another two and a half hours until Jane announced we were at Bat Caves camp. As we rubbed the horses backs I noticed Gordon almost nuzzling Eclipse - a major breakthrough, he was bonding with a HORSE !

Bucket showers! at Bat Caves.

As we carried our saddle bags a short distance to the tented camp area, Jane stopped to examine some tracks. She thought a Leopard had been through the camp the night before. I was not sure whether to be excited or nervous, Jane seemed calm and therefore I took my queue from her. We had a refreshing drink before being shown our tent which was secluded and in the most fabulous location overlooking a deep gorge to a rushing river. We had our own ensuite bucket shower room which had been filled with water warmed in the fire already and waiting for us. This was the best shower of my life!

Sean and Jane at Bat Caves Camp.

The following morning Jane took us up the steep hill opposite the camp where we had heard Baboons calling during the previous night. This meant us doing the climbing now instead of the horses, if I hadn’t appreciated Gulf before I certainly did now. Once at the top we sat and watched the valley opposite. Our efforts were rewarded as we saw three young Bull Elephants meandering around happily enjoying the early morning sunshine and their breakfast.