Well, hello there. I hope that you are fabulously well after yet another satisfying weekend of fun. Here life in the Luangwa is full of twists and turns with Humphrey the 2nd taking residence in the Nkwali lagoon which is quite fun and a brand-new sighting for Bertie up at Tena Tena of a tree Hyrax. And at Luangwa River Camp we have a family of porcupine who come through camp regularly in the evening and are often being spotted by the guests as they head back to the rooms after dinner.
World Giraffe Day was marked with a steady stream of giraffes behind Nkwali and Luangwa Safari House all day – it was as if they somehow knew about it and decided that they were going to push their point and make themselves abundantly visible! And up at Nsefu the guests had an incredible sighting of a male leopard in full stealth mode stealing a morsel from the wild dogs as they were distracted and fighting with a hyena before running like mad back to the safety of a tree.
It’s not all about the predators and large game though as often guests arrive not particularly interested in birds and leave here completely reformed. If you take a moment to take in the birdlife, I feel certain that no game drive will ever be quiet again. We do however also have plenty of guests coming out fully equipped for the birding whether it be with spotting scopes or telephoto lenses on their cameras and this week we have been very lucky for have some wonderful images from Stewart Haynes from his Ed Selfe photographic trip to Luangwa River Camp and Nkwali. Taking photos of birds takes incredible patience and these really are some wonderful images that really capture the beauty of our avian friends.
Heading across the border to Pumulani the team there have been very busy with guests and remain in awe of the beauty of the view that they are graced with every single day but besides the view they are making sure that the days are action packed – with hikes to star beach, kayaking, enjoying time at the pool, paddling on the water, and walks to the Village.
Camp has been graced with the presence of a pair of Brown Snake Eagles, the Fish Eagles are having their daily snack on the water, and the Baboons and Monkeys have put on their entertainment shoes. The smaller creatures – squirrels, bats, lizards, scorpions and frogs have been responsible for some eventful moments. There has also been an otter at the beach demonstrating the art of eating sashimi!
The Pumulani team have settled into their rhythm for the season – ensuring that each guest experience the hospitality of Malawi. Colorful cocktails at the pool, informative guided walks, swooping fish eagle feeding, sparkling star gazes, and tasty meals have all been part of the package.
The water is receding slowly, and we are waiting in anticipation for the beach to return. However, the masses of water have created its own special effect – when you’re in the pool on the beach – it feels that you are swimming in the lake. Our guests have shared their stunning pictures of Pumulani and the Lake from the top. Showcasing the Lake with the mountains as backdrops and a bright blue pool shining in the sun.
Every day here is completed by a stunning sunset. Whether you watch it from the top, the boat, or a kayak – it certainly leaves a colorful impression…
So, as you can see it’s all been action packed both in Zambia and Malawi. Before I start on another ramble of news and sightings, I shall pull myself away and bid you a very fond farewell and hope that you have a fantastic week with plenty of smiles and laughter and don’t forget to look after one another.
