One of my fondest memories are family safaris - my mom is a nature lover and pretty much a nature encyclopedia, so I know she loves to teach the kids and show them so many aspects of nature. She has also received the code name "eagle eyes" because this woman can spot an animal so far away - it is super ridiculous.
It was the same set up as last time, the kids loved it while we saw animals, but they got rather bored and a little impatient during the heat of the day the day when most of the animals where hiding in the shade.
My parents have this little tradition to stop for breakfast at about the half way mark to The Kruger National Park. So that is what we did first.
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| The Hippo Hide. |
Our mornings started early, on the back patio with some coffee or tea and a side of rusks.
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| When did she turn 16? |
Then I got suckered into the gift shop and we got the kids these beauties to accompany their morning rusks.
The sunrises where gorgeous.
Our days were spent on safari. Looking for animals. eating way to many snacks, laughing and making memories. Don't get me wrong there were frustrating moments with the kids as boredom took over during the hot part of the days, and the animals where hiding. But we managed to make the best of it.
I was extremely happy that the field was green and lush and beautiful - the last time we went in 2016 there was a major drought and it looked awful.
We were lucky to spot the big five over the course of the days we spent there.
The excitement was super high every time we entered a the gate.
The animals and scenery were gorgeous and breathtaking - there is something so refreshing experiencing nature in her full force.
*** photo overload a head ***
Funny story... this little baboon went along for the ride. Ian loved it, Hayleigh on the other had lost in complete terror.
On to the big five. The big five is basically what Africa/South Africa is famous for when it comes to wild life - lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo.
The cheetah isn't apart of the big five, but it is a super awesome sight.
Since we left so early in the morning, we had a little later breakfast at a picnic spot in the park. Super simple filling and delicious granola.
Side story - this particular spot is notorious for the monkeys. When you look away (even for a split second) they come and steal your food right of the table... it is intense.
So in defense of our food - meet monkey warrior 1 &2. With assistance from my dad and these sticks, they were able to ward off all the monkeys. We had a super good laugh about it, but the loved it.
This time around we saw bunch of birds - and it was fantastic.
For the stretches that we saw no animals, we had beautiful and gorgeous scenery.
The camps we explored and stretched our legs at where just as beautiful.
The kids cameras were a hit once more, and I managed to get a few view-able pictures.
I can't believe that four days passed by so super quick.
I love all this time we get to spend with my parents, and the fact that they are able and willing to do these things with my kids - making the best and most beautiful memories. It makes it a little bittersweet because I wish I could love a just a tad bit closer, so they can do more with the kids.
I can't believe that we have been here for almost three weeks already, and in four weeks Nate will be joining us - the time is flying by way to quickly.
I know that these memories will be tucked deep into our hearts.
Happy Friday!
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