atravelynn

Just wanted to make this declaration, even though I'll do a full report on Zambia and Cape Town with pictures eventually.

Kutandala is in North Luangwa, Zambia.

I went back after my first visit 5 years ago and was equally impressed this time around. So glad there were no big changes to anything.

There was one evident positive change--the elephants. Five years ago we saw two on foot in a 4-night stay. They were fearful of people due to poaching. When those 2 caught our scent, they ran in terror, trumpeting.

This time we saw elephants on every walk, I think, for a total of about 30 elephants in 5 nights. There were families and lone males and the behavior of all of them was more relaxed.

GreenDrake

Lynn I was hoping you gave a preview of your North Luangwa stay prior to your full report. I love the area and your report on the continuing resurgance of a stable elephant population is outstanding!!

atravelynn

One of the elephants was "resurging" for several hours at night right next to my chalet, eating seed pods and occasionally shaking the walls.

GreenDrake

Before the elles comeback you had to put a quarter in the bed for 2 minutes of that effect.

I heard when I was up at Mwaleshi last year that the elles must really like that Kutandala location as they partially destroyed one of the chalets

atravelynn

Were there people in it at the time? That could be a little scary.

2 quarters, ha ha.

cybor

That's great. Especially the elephant part.
I'm usually weary of going back as it's generally never as magical as the first time.
I'd use the first kiss analogy but I can't remember it or who.
Anyhow, good to know some places get better.
Now do us all a favor and put your report in one place....
Please.

GreenDrake

Well of course the "camp fire" story would have the entire chalet munched. "Dad" saves the family by scaring off the elephant with his horrible singing in the shower.

I think in reality only the front porch was damaged.

atravelynn

Cybor,

You don't remember who you've kissed?

cybor

Not the first one - either it wasn't memorable or my mind is slipping.