A charmed goodbye in the Kruger

Our recent five days in the Kruger National Park were, as always, an enthralling experience. We enjoyed the accommodation and facilities at Olifants, Shingwedzi and Letaba camps. Weʼre always excited with the sightings of numerous animals and birds.

We hadnʼt seen wild dogs or leopards, although I almost made myself permanently squint searching nearly every tree in the park. After five days of excellent sightings we sadly headed home. About an hour from Skukuza, on the S1 Route, we spotted a big cat sitting about three metres away from the tarred road. We couldn't believe our eyes. The leopard seemed to be focussed on something across the road, then he turned and looked straight at our little car. With a cheeky looking face, he seemed to be saying, ʻHey guys, youʼre late! Whereʼve you been?ʼ

The leopard seemed quite relaxed while he searched the nearby bushes. We were thrilled with the various unique expressions on his face. I managed to take six quick photographs with my Canon Powershot Sx50 camera before another vehicle came to a screeching halt and the leopard disappeared into the bushes. With our hearts pounding, my wife and I looked at each other in disbelief.

We had just had an amazing encounter with a magnificent animal. And he wasnʼt even in a tree! We drove on to Phabeni Gate with beaming faces.

Note to the readers: maybe thereʼsa leopard waiting for more visitors, just like yourselves. Donʼt keep him waiting too long. Bob Smith Roodepoort