26/02/18

Heading off today, so a relatively early start.

I know that you have seen the neighbours washing clothes in the lake but I just realised today that it is also their bathroom. Ummm not sure how I feel about that.

As we went to pack Betsy the first thing we saw was a dead dog lying just behind the truck. I decided not to take another photo as it didn’t seem necessary, but it was another reminder of how cheap all life can be in Africa.

We also noted that one of the wheels was very low on air and that another puncture repair was on the cards. Easy here, so far, so a quick pit stop to where some guys are sitting next to old tyres, and hey presto wheel off hole drilled and plugged. We believe it will last but let’s wait and see.

The journey also saw us travel past a rubber plantation for those who are interested. Not sure how many of you are, but hey ho.

As we headed South the roads worsened as did the bridges, we also had one of the windscreen wipers disintegrating in front of us. This is Africa so no worries.

The next moment we hit a large pot hole and the lid over the storage flipped up as we had broken one of the hinges. Again, no worries. Martin did his heroics and temporarily fixed it until we reach Lilongwe. Tony thank you for the duck tape it did us proud.

The next obstacle was the rain. I’ve driven all over the world but have never experienced rain like this. Martin suggested we pull over and I duly agreed. As with everything here it was a passing moment.

On arrival in Lilongwe we spotted a motor repair centre, duly pulled in and bobs your uncle fannys' your aunt and all sorted. Even better no charge.

We have been given fantastic Safari advice, so we are off to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia for 2 nights (possibly 3) and have been promised the big 5. I didn’t think Martin would get to see a leopard but apparently, he will. Happy days.

Our Airbnb tonight is fabulous, great wine, good accommodation and nice food. Bonus is the owner runs Safaris so has sorted the Safari booking for us.

Although this has been one of our most challenging days, it hasn’t been that difficult really, especially if you don’t panic. So looking forward to tomorrow.

Night night campers  

PS. There are more photos than usual but that is because we have good internet connection tonight :-)