Tsauchab River Camp to Swakopmund

Today was a long day’s drive. We awoke to a simply stunning African sunrise and a delicious breakfast at the lodge. Our hosts, Nicky and Johan, treated us so well- they are very nice couple who love their jobs. This morning we met the youngest of their three daughters – and enjoyed a nice visit. It sure was a wonderful place to stay.

At 8 a.m. we left for our trip to Swokopmund. Most of the day was spent driving on gravel roads; that was tiring. This morning we drove through beautiful countryside and enjoyed many animal sightings. New animals included several warthogs (very exciting) and many oryx – which are really beautiful animals. The tour company planned that Phil would enjoy seeing some amazing rocks- and they were right. We stopped regularly while he photographed rocks that not only are many millions of years old but also very unique. We picnicked for lunch alongside the road and then continued; stops included a “moonscape” and checking on the Welsitchia plant – a plant that is most unusual in that it only grows two leaves in its lifetime which may last 1000-2000 years.
Then we began the descent to the Atlantic Coast and the German city of Swakopmund.
It was quite a change – in that I’m not sure we could tell you if we are in Africa or Atlantic City. Our guesthouse is very contemporary and we can see the Atlantic from our balconies (yes there are two). We have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a living room. We will stay here two nights and then drive north toward Damaraland and Etosha. Tomorrow, we will go on a boat ride- to see the dolphins and whales off the coast. Tonight we will walk to a nearby seafood restaurant for dinner. That will be good.

While I can certainly tell you that the Tsauchab River Camp is far more my taste than the Atlantic Villa Guesthouse, I can also tell you that Africa has many faces – and we are seeing them. That is wonderful. Everyone does not live out in the bush- and everyone does not live in this beautiful guesthouse. We are truly enjoying our guide Josea who is both knowledgeable and fun. He is a good traveling companion and an enthusiastic teacher and learner.