UNDER African skies
“Guys, get your trailers and tents set up… I think we’re in for a helluva storm,” said Jannie Rykaart.
It was the first night of our trip to Botswana. There had already been flashes of lightning and the dull roar of thunder in the distance.
We were at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary on the main road between Serowe and Orapa, and a storm that would keep any Gautenger happy rained down that night.
The next morning, we woke to delightful petrichor... that earthy smell of the bushveld after rain. A big flock of Southern pied babblers chattering near our camp. A pair of grey loeries nipped at Ouma-rusk crumbs around our breakfast table, while the ubiquitous Glossy starlings preened themselves in the branches around Jannie’s van.
We were only four vehicles and eight people on this Protea Safari tour. It is possibly somewhat selfish of me, but I like small groups when travelling.
INTRODUCTIONS
Time to introduce the team. Jannie and Ansu Rykaart (from Protea Safari Tours) are known for small, very-well-organised trips with a good dollop of luxury.
This trip's four vehicles included Jannie and Ansu’s Pajero Sport 3.2 Di-D, towing a Conqueror Comfort.
Then there was Ian Kempe, a civil engineer, travelling with his daughter Laura in a short wheel base SsangYong Musso. I thought Laura was still at school, until I learnt that she was a