From Mossel Bay, Botlierskop Game Reserve is a short 30min drive. The very friendly staff and beautiful setting, make you want to start walking immediately. However firstly you enjoy coffee with rusks and koeksisters.
Once the indemnity forms are completed, you meet your very friendly and knowledgeable guides. Only safety aspect is don't RUN!!!
Immediately we start spotting antelope. We get the run down for the very unusual black color of the dominant Impala ram. Then we see the Cape Mountain Zebra, Springbuck, Wildebeest, Kudu and Waterbuck. I am amazed how close we get.
Then it is the opportunity to see an ants nest in a tree! They do that to protect themselves from their predators.
Even a small hole that is a scorpions nest does not get unnoticed.
Before we spot the Rhinos, we get to their mizzen. We get explained the difference between the White and Black Rhino. A scratching pole is also of interest. Then we spot 4 magnificent beasts! Although they don't see very well, 6 meters I am told, all have at least one ear facing us. I am very grateful that there is a donga between us. To apply the safety rule seems like a challenge otherwise! However we snap away.
Then the hike continues up to the Botlierskop top for a breakfast provided. The view is magnificent! Mossel Bay, Hartenbos and even the refinery flame can be seen. We are surrounded by beauty and tranquility. The Rhinosterveldt, Proteas, Fynbos with its many pretty flowers make it so. The magnificent Outeniqua Mountains in the distance make a very nice backdrop.
Then down we climb. Past another female Rhino and her calf. A Wildebeest keep them company.
To cross the river, we use a pont. Not before a few Zebra come to drink and offer us fantastic opportunities to take more stunning pictures.
On the way to the lodge, the proud male Wildebeest comes closer with his whole herd to say a final goodbye.
What a great experience and nice hike! 2,5 Hours of heaven on the 4000 hectare farm. Make sure you do not miss it!