Join us as our journey continues. Michelle and SJ whipped up a delicious Breakfast Bunny that energized us for the day ahead, as we set off with an early morning start, filled with unexpected detours and thrilling wildlife encounters. Our day began with a necessity – replacing a tire on the Amarok. The Crocodile Camp swiftly emptied as fellow travellers hit the road. This camp, boasting spacious stands, served as an excellent pit stop. Our tire expedition led us to multiple shops, eventually resulting in both tires being replaced for uniformity. Meanwhile, we restocked our supplies at the various grocery options in Maun – Woolworths, Spar, Choppies, and more. SJ and Michelle even ensured our water tanks were topped up at a fuel station. Eager to resume our journey, we embarked on a 100km stretch, transitioning from town roads to gravel paths. Tire deflation and a swift repair kept us on track. The road conditions required a measured pace due to the rough terrain, but the lack of animal sightings was a slight disappointment. Signs of elephants were evident, though they remained hidden. Our first adventure unfolded about 10km from Tshaa, involving a sandy mishap with one of the Land Cruisers. With teamwork and determination, we overcame the obstacle with an elephant audience in the background – a sight only the guys caught. As we entered the Tshaa area, an awe-inspiring scene welcomed us to Botswana's embrace – a watering hole alive with graceful elephants, zebras, impalas, and hippos in the distance. Finally, an opportunity for photographs! Settling into Campsite 1 along the water's edge, we relished the fantastic view, complemented by the convenience of a fresh water tap, a rustic shower, and toilet facilities. The camp's resident elephant provided even more photographic moments. But the real magic unfolded when a pod of colossal hippos graced the river right before our camp. The bull's imposing presence and a playful baby hippo left us in awe. We observed these incredible creatures with a mix of excitement and trepidation, capturing the spectacle by torchlight. Dinner, skilfully prepared by Jaco and Chantelle, took place amidst this surreal backdrop, and dessert was a Chantelle masterpiece. As the night settled in and the distant sound of hyenas filled the air, we drifted into restful sleep, reflecting on the day's exhilarating moments. Join us in reliving this unforgettable adventure filled with 4x4 exploration, remarkable wildlife, and the pure joy of camping in the heart of Botswana's wilderness.
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