The Big Easy

A 17-day Africa tour with complete strangers? Mana Pools and Zambia’s South Luangwa Park work their magic…

- Brenda Ilbury

Driving through the dusty fields of Botswana under a washed-out sky, I had plenty of time to question my wisdom in agreeing to a self-drive trip that would take me thousands of kilometres from Durban, through Botswana and Zambia to Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, then back into Zambia to South Luangwa before returning home. Despite the reassurances of my husband, Mark, I am not convinced that I’m cut out for this kind of adventure – seventeen days on roads unknown, in countries I have never explored, sleeping in a ground tent in unfenced camps, and all in the company of strangers.

I’m not averse to camping; after all, when growing up in a big family in the Seventies, camping is what we did, and my father ran a tight ship. Mark has always hated camping, vowing that self-catering cottages were as basic as he would go, especially with three lively sons. Recently, with the children all grown-up, he has developed a yen to explore Africa in a more adventurous way; and I’m struggling with this mind shift.

We are joining “Ultimate Adventures” in Nata, and, to my secret relief they will be responsible for guiding us on this trip. I love new places and people, but I’m no thrill-seeker. I see no attraction in the conquering of impassable rocky passes, or being mired in the mud. I’m not too concerned about living with strangers, but two-and-a-half weeks is a long time, and we are a small group; we could end up loathing one another.

My fears are unfounded. Simon and Des Steadman of “Ultimate Adventures” are a dynamic duo. Simon is organised and unflappable, with a steadfast, reassuring nature. Des is warm, enthusiastic and gregarious, and gathers you in with comforting ease. Our fellow guest is an affable, opera-loving lone ranger with a longing for open spaces, and a good sense of humour. We all breathe a sigh of relief: this could work.