Wednesday 3 June 2009 - This mornings game drive doubles up as our departure from Markele. Having said our farewells to Kevin at the gate, we continue north through the Limpopo Province to Mapungubwe after first making another stop at Thabazimbi to stock up on vital provisions, namely chocolate and alcohol (well we are on holiday!) and of course more substantial kos for the next few days.Driving several hours we arrive at Mapungubwe National Park, which lies on the Botswana and Zimbabwe border and therefore possibly the most northerly point within South Africa. Whilst Sandra sorts out the keys with Reception, I am intrigued by a small scoop in the soil from which a stick is protruding. I get out of the Quantum to investigate to find there are several of them at staggered intervals along the entrance road. On closer inspection some of the sticks are flowering, delicate white flowers with a reddish throat which seeps to the petal edges. They are Impala lilies, it is hard to believe that such beauty can be produced from what is effectively a twig!
Heading to our accommodation, I am in awe of the rugged landscape. Large formations, burnt orange in colour, having suffered years of erosion create deformed stacks of rock, their crevices forming a natural habitat for the stark white roots of the wild fig, which twist and grow in complete contrast. The area is also peppered with the dramatic baobab trees, their menacing presence being the stuff childrens nightmares are made of. Yet, this tree has a magical, mystical aura which simply takes your breathe away as the sun slowly sets into the horizon behind the imposing silhouette of the majestic Baobab. 
Arriving at Leokwe Camp, Kevin has done us proud yet again, three top notch thatched cottages built in the traditional Venda styley. Kirsteen and I decide to share, generously giving Bridgett and Sandra a cottage to themselves, although our generosity is not without ulterior motive, as it gives the opportunity for a proper 'skinder' and catch up. Our cottage is beautiful with all mod cons, air conditioning, private patio with braai facilities and a spectacular view. We are also completely spoilt with a luxurious outside shower, which I take full of advantage of after dinner and sun downers. Can there be anything more liberating than washing your cares away under a star filled sky? Me thinks not!
