It was an absolute treat to take mum and dad to Hwange National Park. For those who followed us on our adventure last year you may remember Jodi being absolutely terrified by the sounds of lion roaring a few 100 metres away as we camped inside the game reserve (what a woos). This year after many objections from Jodi in regards to the thought of taking mum and dad to camp in the reserve, Jodi got her wish and instead of camping, we all stayed in the Hwange Safari Lodged. I have to admit, I did enjoy sleeping in the nice king size bed and indulging in 5 course dinners and scrumptious buffet breakfasts, but it wasn’t the same as sleeping in the middle of the reserve, seeing all the stars in the sky and hearing all the wild life right near you as you sat around the fire enjoying a good piece of meat cooked on the braai (bbq).

Once again we were able to take our local expert with us so that he could explain all the flora and fauna within the park. We ventured into the park twice, once on the first afternoon and again the following morning. I have never seen so many elephant in my life; they were gathered in the watering hole on the first evening having a bath and a play around. On the second morning I finally got to see lion in the wild; as we were on our drive out of the park mum spotted 4 lionesses with about 4 or 5 cubs … it was awesome to see them so close (they were about 15 metres away).

I thought we were treated really well at Hwange Safari Lodge but I have never stayed in a place like the Victoria Falls Hotel … this place does not hold back on indulging their guests. Imagine waking up to the sound of a light knock on your door, “room service” you hear the man announce quietly as you slip on your soft, white bath robe. You answer the door to and allow the attendant to enter with your complimentary freshly brewed morning tea and coffee with shortbread. WOW, I never get this type of service at home and I could never imagine Jodi waking up early to prepare a nice coffee for me whilst in bed … oh well, the joys of holidays I suppose. After our tea and coffee we would get ready and be treated to a decedent buffet breakfast overlooking the Zambezi river … I have to admit it was REAL hard waking up each morning ;0).

We had an absolute blast exploring the falls and seeing some pretty cool stuff. Jodi and I got to hold a baby croc and we all saw elephant swimming in the Zambezi river on our sunset cruise. This time away was really nice and relaxing … I hope mum and dad come back next year.