Motswari Safari: Day One

On our third day, we drove a few hours north and east to the Kruger Park region of South Africa. For the next three nights, we stayed at Motswari Game Reserve, which was nothing short of magical.

Loved it.

Loved it. 

Loved it.

From the itinerary:

"Open to the Kruger National Park and playing host to Africa's Big Five is Motswari Private Game Reserve. One of South Africa's jewels nestled within the Timbavati Nature Reserve, this family-owned and operated safari lodge prides itself on its warm atmosphere. 

The name Motswari means "to conserve and protect" in Tswana and the owners have held the name to be a promise to each of their future friends who arrive to share in the splendour of an African sunset at this vintage bush lodge. The 150 square kilometres that make up the reserve are part of the greater Kruger Park and guests will be treated to wildlife in their natural habitats as part of their unforgettable experience of Southern Africa."

Soon after entering the reserve, we were greeted by lots of animals:

And that was all before we even got to the gate!

Once we arrived at the lodge, we were told to gather for lunch at 3:00pm (holy yum!) then meet our guide and tracker - Herold and Difference (the best team ever) - and hop on the afternoon game drive at 4:30pm. 

Well, okay then - off we go!

Leopard tortoise (props to Barbara for spotting):

What the heck?!

Hippos keeping cool (this is the most we ever saw of them):

Giraffe snacking on treetops:

Boston Bruins on board:

Baby elephant - perhaps the cutest thing in the world:

Just taking a break from tracking animals for a sundowner. No big deal.

Excitement on the way back to the lodge - first lion sighting!