African Elephant (Loxodonta Africana), Nyamandhlovu Pan, Hwange National Park (Main Camp Area), Zimbabwe, Africa
Once Hwange National Park was declared a National Reserve in 1929 one thing became clear soon. To support a stock of game on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, a permanent water supply was needed, especially during the dry season. Over 60 holes were drilled, the water pumped up by noisy diesel powered pumps. Although the animals can roam freely around this park the size of Belgium, they have become dependent of the water holes maintained by the ZimParks Authorities. Unfortunately, suffering from lack of funding, many of these pans stay dry, due to broken pumps or the lack of diesel.
African Elephant (Loxodonta Africana), Nyamandhlovu Pan, Hwange National Park (Main Camp Area), Zimbabwe, Africa
Unaware of the borehole business, we followed the routine of a typical game drive, thinking early mornings and evenings are best. Quickly we found out that driving around was much less rewarding than waiting at one of the few waterholes where the pumps were still working. And ironically, we came across a lot more animals around noon: warthogs, all kinds of gazelles, hyenas, zebras, the occasional buffalo. But above all, this is elephant territory. And they decide who is allowed at the boreholes!
Burchell’s Zebra (Equus Burchellii) & African Elephant (Loxodonta Africana), Masuma Dam, Hwange National Park (Sinamatella Camp Area), Zimbabwe, Africa
The second lesson learned was that the far more experienced South African visitors favor the remote “Wilderness Camp Sites”, the ones close to the waterholes, like the Masuma Dam Camp… There, they can view wildlife from sunrise to sunset without getting out of their camping chairs. A true privilege and out of reach for those who stay in camps, like us: from there it is up to an hour drive to the main waterholes and self-driving is strictly prohibited before 06:30 am and after 06:00 pm.
Nyamandhlovu Pan, Hwange National Park (Main Camp Area), Zimbabwe, Africa
Nevertheless we enjoyed our stay in Hwange Main Camp and the two nights in Sinamatella Camp, on the Western fringes of Hwange National Park. Inside those chalets it was definitely warmer than in a tent. And keeping warm was essential during those wintry nights. Have you ever wondered how wimps like us get access to hot water in such exposed places? Outside of each hut, little wood-fired brick stoves heat barrels filled with water, which finds its way inside and to the bathroom. A clever technique and a convenience surely appreciated at these temperatures…
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