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On our last morning game drive , zebra walk in single file down the main road. Jaco halts the Land Rover so that we can watch as they stop to graze, providing another photographic opportunity.

As Jaco turns the vehicle down a side road, Simon spots lion tracks. We follow until they enter a part of the reserve where it is too muddy for us to follow. So, it’s time to search for hippopotamus.

On the way, we see wildebeest plus a group of kudu and then later an impala herd. As the vehicle approaches a warthog, he runs across the road, holding his tail high.

Arriving at a viewing point on the river bank, Jaco points out a group of hippo that are submerged in the water with only their ears and eyes showing. They are gathered in a circle when, suddenly, one of the younger ones yawns, his mouth opening wide to expose a large set of teeth. No wonder hippos are considered one of the most dangerous animals in the bush.

After stopping for one last coffee with amarula, Jaco gives a lesson about termites. Did you know that they invented air conditioning?

One more breakfast on the deck, then Alan and I stroll the raised walkways to our villa to enjoy the last few hours at Madiwke Hills . Then, it’s time to go. Next, we’ll be taking our itchy feet to Hermanus on the South African coast. Will we see any great white sharks? Check our next post to find out.

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