There is a safari tradition of a “sundowner” – essentially happy hour in the bush around sunset. Get some snacks, start a bonfire and have some drinks. We’ve done that this trip, but this morning we invented a “sunupper”. One thing about the Masai Mara, the clouds are amazing.
We only had a half-day on safari as we were flying back to Nairobi this afternoon. We surprised a pair of black-backed jackals. The second one is looking at me like I said something about their mother…
Later in the day we visited a Masai “village”. On the drive there we had a typical safari moment – impala next to the road. It’s just kinda boggles my mind seeing them there. At least I finally got a good picture of my favorite antelope.
The Masai were all dressed up and demonstrated their jumping ritual.
Side note: In previous posts I’ve explained how I am uncomfortable with “cultural dance” as a tourist activity. It seems a bit like “I am first world and rich – jump for my amusement!” I visited a Masai village during my 2006 safari, and it was very similar to this. Several wattle houses (using cow dung) that have no lighting and a walk thru their shopping area. On the hill beyond you can see their very modern grade school.
I’m not a fan.
Before we go I want to explain the joys of a “in the bush” hotel. Here was the view from my tent as I was packing.
Not impressed? Look closer.
Yep, these giraffes were just wandering by, having lunch. A few minutes later there were impala.
The same thing happens at the site restaurant. During the last lunch we saw impala, giraffe, elephant and waterbuck. A troop of mongoose dashed pass us not even 10 meters away. At least forty of them. You could almost hear the circus music as they zipped about. Kind of cool.
The flights were a bit chaotic due to maintenance issues, but we got to Mauritius early in the morning. I’ll leave the details until next time.