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Thanks for your trip report. You're bringing back my warmest memories of my trip to Kgalagadi. It was quite enjoyable.

Second, the Mboko from the deck    

First, the mosaic savanna-forest landscape from the air.

Thank you Kit, a splendid report with lots of interesting information. Very educational. So cool that you were able to find almost all your targets. I particularly like the Leaf Monkeys and the Gibbons of course. And I agree, love their mournful calls - only heard it in Kaziranga! And that Snake is very, very cool indeed.

This year, our journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Kgalagadi National Park in South Africa was nothing short of extraordinary. For over three weeks in February, we immersed ourselves in the wild beauty, choosing to explore the enchanting South African side and reside in the comfort of the camp houses. Crafting a unique trip planning in this popular park, often frequented by swift locals and international tourists alike, was a challenge. Yet, amidst the vibrant tapestry of experiences, we discovered the magic that lies within. Our days unfolded across various camps—Kalahari Tented Camp, Nosob River camps, Gharagab Wilderness Camp, Bitterpan, Kielikrankie—with Grootkolk standing out as the jewel in the crown. Kalahari Tented Camp, a familiar site, unveiled its wonders in unexpected ways. Witnessing a cheetah making a daring yet unsuccessful attempt on a group of Wildebeest, and later strolling fearlessly past our camp, left an indelible mark. Daily visits from the park's diverse wildlife, accompanied by the haunting serenade of jackals and the symphony of night creatures, transformed our nights into a captivating spectacle. The Nosob River camp, luxury with a direct view of the waterhole, offered an unparalleled experience. Lions stealthily passing us in the moonlit night, followed later by a trio of hyenas indulging in the waterhole's cool embrace, created a twilight symphony. Amidst the nocturnal magic, a glass of wine became the perfect companion, allowing us to savor the night sounds that echoed the essence of Kgalagadi. Securing a last-minute reservation at the Kielikrankie camp added a layer of excitement to our journey. A haven for nocturnal creatures, the park treated us to an intense chorus of barking geckos—an awe-inspiring song parade. Encounter with a cape cobra under the veranda brought a thrill, reminding us of the untamed beauty that surrounded us. Bitterpan, an adventure accessible only by a 4x4 drive, rewarded us with solitude and awe-inspiring views over the dunes. As the starry sky unfolded its grandeur, the waterhole became a stage for nature's nightlife—spotted owls and a brown hyena provided a captivating performance under the celestial canopy.   In the heart of this vast wilderness, each camp became a chapter in our adventure, but Grootkolk unfolded as a story of its own. This journey was not merely a visit; it was a profound connection with nature's wonders, leaving us with memories etched in the sands of time. On the last part of our journey, nature gifted us an extraordinary encounter at Groot Kolk. As we ventured through the wilderness, a thrilling surprise awaited us—a majestic caracal, focused and determined in its hunt, oblivious to our presence. Our hearts raced with excitement, and it took a moment for us to realize the urgency of capturing this magical moment. Hastily, we fumbled to turn on the camera, eager to preserve the beauty of this unexpected spectacle. Upon reaching Groot Kolk camp, we were enveloped in a unique atmosphere that set the stage for another inspiring experience. In the stillness of the night, the magical roars of lions pierced the air, beckoning us to witness their majestic presence. With lantern in hand and camera at the ready, we ventured into the darkness to discover a breathtaking sight—four lionesses and a male lion, their presence casting an enchanting spell. We stood in silent admiration as they graced the camp, disappearing into the shadows of the nearby hills as the night unfolded. As the evening sun painted the sky with hues of gold, a tender moment awaited us on the road. A lioness and her playful cub captured our hearts, the adorable antics of the young one demanding attention and affection. In the background, the patriarch of the pride revealed the remaining of a recent hunt. The cub's innocent approach toward him brought a subtle hint of disapproval, creating a captivating family dynamic. Entranced by this harmonious scene, we lingered, savoring the beauty of nature's intricate dance in the heart of the wild. Each moment etched in our memories, a testament to the untamed wonders that unfold when we become humble spectators in the grand theater of the natural world.   Kgalagadi National Park remains the beating heart of our adventures—a place that eternally captivates our souls. The love affair with this sanctuary, particularly when intertwined with the Botswana side, unfolds as a tapestry of ever-changing, intensely vivid experiences. Each visit, a unique chapter, adds layers to the profound connection we share with nature. In the vast expanse of Kgalagadi, closeness to nature is not just a proximity; it's a dance of the senses. Every moment offers a new and extraordinary encounter, weaving a narrative that is both mesmerizing and distinct. The park, with its diverse landscapes and wildlife, becomes a canvas upon which our love for nature is painted in vibrant hues. Our passion for the untamed beauty of Africa expands with each whispered tale of its magnificence. The more we speak of its allure, the deeper our appreciation grows. It's not just love; it's an evolving symphony of awe and reverence for the remarkable and the extraordinary that unfolds in the heart of Kgalagadi. Each adventure is a testament to the boundless wonders that make our connection with nature an ever-expanding journey of discovery and admiration.   We've embarked on a cinematic journey to capture the untamed beauty of the majestic animals that grace the landscapes of Kgaladi National Park. In this short film, we unveil the raw essence of nature, a symphony orchestrated by the wilderness itself. Feel the pulse of the earth as it beats in harmony with the vibrant life that inhabits this sanctuary. From the graceful dance of the antelope to the mighty presence of the Lions, each frame is a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders that nature generously bestows upon us. This film is our humble tribute to the enchanting allure of Kgaladi NP. We invite you to join us in relishing the spectacle of the untamed, to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the wild. Let this be your revenge against the chaos of everyday life—a moment to reconnect with the extraordinary beauty that surrounds us. Should curiosity spark within you, and questions arise about the depths of this adventure, don't hesitate to ask. Our journey is not just a film; it's an invitation to explore, appreciate, and marvel at the incredible tapestry of life that unfolds in Kgalagadi National Park   Johan and Natalie Seekles

https://www.explorerclub.co.uk/articles/focus-for-survival-2023-results-announced

Don´t leave us hanging on such a cliffhanger Fred!

It is always a great honor to receive comments and compliments from @Atravelynn . Thank you so much, Lynn!

Thank you very much @Pictus Safaris.

Those Major Mitchell / Pink Cockatoos are simply stunning, worth missing afternoon nibbles.  That Singing Honeyeater about to consume a bee is a fantastic shot.

Great sightings on your fascinating journey.  Very elusive, that Seed Snipe. Love the bats to go along with the very colorful tropical birds. It seems the journey will become more fascinating as it progresses.  Hopefully not too fascinating.  Looking forward to what's next.

Page 1: I hope the old Mandavu female died peacefully after a full life of lion activity.  These elephant hunting lions could be a threat to that intrepid baby elephant.  Great images.   You really have created a lion and elephant pictorial and not just as predators on the kill, though those are quite spectacular shots.  Such nice light for the majority.  Always a gift.  Two iconic species captured beautifully.  Plus the birds, jackals, antelope and others of course.

Such amazing images and an albino kudu!  Thanks for posting these beauties.

Next stop after Ngaga camp is Mboko camp.   Mboko is the base of CCC - now Kamba Africa after their ongoing expansion to Nouabale Ndoki National Park where they are about to open two new luxury lodges - in the middle of the savanna-forest mosaic in the Southern part of Odzala national park.   Mboko camp was the first base of Odzala National Park before it moved to Mbomo village. An airstrip is located nearby for visitors that fly in - fly out from Brazzaville. The landscape is stunning, with wonderful wavy small hills covered by savannas and gallery forests in between. This is the perfect spot to spot and hear the last spotted hyenas form the Congo, we actually saw many of them only at night, and almost always by foot around the camp. The is a remaining population of less than a hundred estimated resident in the park, some are sometimes seen far away in Gabon (Langoue Bai at Ivindo National Park, Momba Bai between Mwagna and Ivindo National Parks). So there might be another small resident/migrating population to the West of Odzala, deeper inside the gabonese forest. Some hyenas clans are resident further North, far away from the savannas, and live around the different bais of the forest. They are even said to prey on elephants and buffalos.   One night we were awaken by a clan of hyenas whooping after hunting a buffalo just outside our room, that was a highlight of the trip! We even listen to much more hyenas whooping at Odzala than everywhere else in Africa!   We also used Mboko as a base to visit Lango bai, as the camp was unfortunately being refurbished by that time.   But Mboko is a great place to stay by. First, it is strategically located close to the Lekoli river, which is probably the best place to spot forest elephants. One goes down the river by boat or by kayak before sunrise or close to dusk, when elephant family groups go out from the shade of the forest to feed on the exotic rapid spreading mimosas all along the banks of the river. The deck is located just 5 minutes away by jeep.   Second, elephant bulls and sometimes family groups can be seen directly from the lodge.   Third, buffalos are almost always present during the night around the lodge, as well as the hyenas as said before. Hippos are nearby on the river (there is a trail to try to spot them).   Best safaris at Mboko are clearly on the river in comparison with 4x4. Animals are definitely present in the savanna, but the river is the highlight of Mboko. It is quite common to spot servals cats around on the track, but we did not see them.      

@offshorebirder  Thanks!  Here are the latest in this series.     Now that the female has joined the male near the small pond, it obviously has other things in mind than drinking.