From Wokingham to the Mavuradona Wilderness in Zimbabwe

Wading through the Tingwa River.

After descending the mountain and consuming a hearty breakfast we were back in the saddle ready for our day's adventures. Again the terrain was varied and interesting. Jane constantly keeping us informed about the vegetation, wildlife and terrain. We saw Bushpig, a pair of Warthogs who apparently are nearly always seen in pairs as they mate for life, and various members of the antelope family. We stopped again for a picnic lunch by a river. During our lunch break Jane took us on a clambering expedition up-river as during the rainy season this would have the most spectacular waterfalls. As always our exertions were rewarded with wonderful scenery and a birds-eye view of Terrapins playing in the pools below us. In the afternoon we rode back towards Bat Caves camp down some of the steepest terrain, and yet the horses did not stumble. They can confidently negotiate the most remarkable inclines.

Once settled back at Bat Caves Jane headed off to Kopje Tops, and Geoffrey rode in to meet us to be our guide for the following day's riding. Before dinner Geoffrey took us down to the Bat Caves. The caves are home to the largest colony of fruit bats south of the equator. On our way to the caves, Geoffrey stopped to examine some droppings, the Leopard again. He was obviously around but keeping out of our way. As dusk turns to night the Bats flood out of the caves. Their sonar system is detectable to the human ear. It is audible as a clicking sound. I had thought I might be frightened by this but found it fascinating.

Posing for the camera on their final day - Karine and Gordon.

The next day was probably our most challenging day's riding. We were following Elephant paths that even Geoffrey, after 8 years of exploring the wilderness area, had not been on. At times the bamboo was so thick it was easy to loose the horse in front if it was more than a few passes away. All the time the elephants we had seen the previous morning were very close by, watching us but not making a sound, amazing for such large creatures. After a long day in the saddle Geoffrey announced, with what I thought was an element of surprise in his voice, that could see Kopje Tops. We were not far from showers and dinner.

The following day brought a change of horses. Our fresh mounts were equally nice horses but Gulf and Eclipse had carved a special place in our affections after all the work and unstinting concentration they had put in on our behalf.

We set off on a short ride to visit the Communal lands, and the dwellings of the people that worked at the lodge and stables. After lunch we went out with Max to see the Great Palms again at sunset. The sky and scenery were breathtaking. Once back at the ranch another family were returning weary from Bat Caves with Jane. That night, as always, dinner was superb and the conversation flowed between two groups of people who had never met but had all experienced something very special over the last few days with our hosts, Geoffrey, Max and Jane.

All too soon it was time to pack our bags ready for the flight home. However, this was not before Gordon managed to master rising trot and have a canter all to add to his already large achievement of going from being a complete novice to riding in the African wilderness in 5 days. It is difficult to capture the exhilaration that I felt on the holiday. I can only say that if the idea of riding through completely unspoilt country, with horses who are perfectly schooled and inspire confidence, tempts you - then try it. I am sure you won't regret it.