While lying in bed I could hear the elephants sloshing through the water and returning to the park having eaten near the village - hopefully not damaging any crops.
We were up at 0530; washed and dressed we went to the fire, which was still burning, and sat on the riverbank to watch the sunrise and eat freshly made porridge.
All packed we left our belongings in the tent as they were being transferred to Luangwa River camp, our last stop, by road - the NZ couple were off to Nkwali and so their luggage came with us across the river. We drove to a parking spot prior to another walk. Enroute we stopped an looked over an oxbow lake and saw a hippo and a young baby - I realised that she still had the afterbirth attached so the little might who was still pink and crinkly had just been born. Worryingly crocodiles were in close proximity waiting for the after birth and no doubt the baby hippo if the mum dropped her guard. What a great sight - amazing luck.
We continued on again towards the parking point but were slowed when we saw several hyena - two youngsters were grappling with the horns of an impala - the group had probably stolen, and now consumed, another leopard kill.
Finally we got to the parking point -
the walk was over rough ground but it was great just to be exercising while enjoying the wildlife and an African morning. When we got back to the vehicle, 2 hours later, we had coffee and became aware of lots of vultures circling - we guessed there might be a kill. We tracked it down - and yes a zebra had met its demise - only hoofs, tail and a picked skeleton were left. This was no doubt the work of the lions I had heard last night.
We made our way back to the river and went off to our different camps. River Camp was another lovely camp. After being shown round I unpacked and had a swim. Lunch was the usual 1130.
This camp followed the same regime as the others - but there were no drums waking or calling you to meals.
After 3.30 tea we went out for a drive with Emanuel - tonight's highlights were the rare Pels Fishing Owl ( it is usually on bird watchers must see list - some have never seen it but we have now seen it on every visit to Zambia - it is today's picture.) We also saw a genet and an elephant shrew.
Dinner tonight was a Mongolian BBQ - in essence you choose what you want including sauces and it is cooked (stir fried) for you - it made a very pleasant change. It was toped off with a very nice crepe suzette and bed.