Africa: Day 6 (Okavango + Ghanzi, Botswana)

The fire was still burning when I woke this morning. The hippos were quite chatty throughout the night so I can't say it was great sleep, but there's still nothing like waking up in the middle of nowhere. The group opted for a morning bush walk to go watch the sunrise while our guides and polers graciously prepared coffee and breakfast...including fire toast...which you just can't beat.

Packed up camp and headed back down the river to the mokoru landing. The morning was really cool and the animals were busy drinking water along the edges. I swear, these rides are even more relaxing than a full day at a spa.

It's tradition to deliver a short speech to the team when you hand over the tips from the group (I was volunteered and happy to oblige) so we shared a moment, sang a few verses of the Zebra song and it was back on the Jeep to head back to town. A part of my heart will stay in the Okavango Delta, no doubt.

Was thrilled for a quick shower back at the lodge before we got on the bus for a 4 hour trek to Ghanzi. Ghanzi is a very small village, primarily known as a home for the bush people or 'San People,' one of the oldest Indigenous tribes on the planet.

After arriving at the lodge and checking in, we set out on a bush walk to learn more from a few of the San People. While they don't live in straw huts or weather leather scraps for clothing anymore, they dressed the part and walked us through what life was really like for their ancestors on the land. They showcased several of their medicinal secrets; a root for clothing dye, a seed, that when ground, is proven to aid in fertility, a plant that can be worn as a head wrap to cure headaches...the list goes on and on. Their biggest fear? The population of San People is diminishing and they are on a quest to ensure the world doesn't live without their magical techniques.

Had dinner on the porch at the lodge and called it an earlier night. It's very dark in the bush! Leaving Botswana and heading into Namibia tomorrow. Until then...