I chose this trip and itinerary because I wanted to get into the bush and see wildlife ASAP after landing in Africa. Today made me second guess that decision. It was a looooong drive from Joburg to Hazyview, Hazyview being right at the gates of Kruger Nat’l Park. Long and bumpy – and by “bumpy” I mean really rough, which wasn’t easy on us. My post-surgery body didn’t like it at all. We left at 6am and arrived at 4pm, with a few stops along the way. I could’ve done without that drive.

Tomorrow is our first full day of safari, starting at 5am. We’ll see if I have further regrets about this itinerary after that. The hotel/lodge we’re staying in for tonight and tomorrow is lovely. Very nice modern rooms. Umbhaba Eco Lodge. Recommended, with one notable exception. They have the hardest beds on the planet. Somehow, being “eco” means they have to use repurposed concrete for mattresses. Miserable, miserable beds, bot good other than that.

In other news, I’m hating Texas more than usual lately. Bastards.