Only a 2 hour drive (stoping twice for directions)
First clue you are close to lions is the sign warning you to stay in the car. This is when the heart starts to pound.
Arriving at the lodge and it looks like a resort, I start to think that we must be in little rooms around the back.
The tour begins with the 3 week old lion cub Aslan.
Possibly the cutest and softest thing I have ever held. We continue to see cheetahs and servals. Walking across the bridge with crocodiles underneath (guide informs us it is a native and not tame).
The next part is amazing. A male brown lion and 4 white females lions just hanging out, the guide explains about the research they conduct at the park: White lion gene research and cat tuberculosis research. Then the most elegant and regal of them al 2 tigers. They are sitting close to the fence looking at us.
Food here is amazing, lasagne, sausages, beef stew, roast pumpkin, salad and bread all for lunch!
The afternoon we were introduced to 2 baby hyenas. Who would have thought they have the strongest jaw of any land mammals, even as Cubs they are very strong. One of the other volunteers found this out when the cub started to hang of his jumper! They are like pet dogs and you can play with them however they like to bite a little and I have received what they call an African tattoo - small puncher like marks on my wrist.
We are then shown to our rooms to unpack. They are amazing! 2 beds with large wardrobes and an amazing ensuite. Beautiful tiled shower with inbuilt seat, pressure = fantastic.
Wifi is only available in certain parts of the park which is unfortunate yet at the same time amazing as will not be worrying about my phone.
I think I am going to love it here. Bring on the hard work and animals.
-Kate