Goodbye Ruckomechi............

At sunrise each morning the rays of the sun illuminated this tree outside our tent. Listening to rousing birdsong and hippos grunting from the river, it wasn't hard to rise and shine, ready for whatever nature had to offer that day.......and it was always astounding.

On our last morning at Ruckomechi Camp we felt sad knowing it was time to move on, leaving the very nice staff and fabulous wildlife viewing during the game drives.

Champion our ranger was great - here we're all enjoying 'elevenses' out in the bush - photo by Bob............

....and we gals had to check out the immense size of the baobab tree. 

Beautiful elephants were everywhere........always posing for perfect pictures......love the elephants!

Cape Buffalo always stared us down.....but thankfully didn't charge at us!

Our evening with a lone lion, who appeared so suddenly causing us to pack up 'sundowners' and quickly jump into the Range Rover, got the adrenaline pumping........and then, when he stood up, walked slowly into the falling dusk, his deep roars made the very air about us vibrate..........that was exciting. 

More elephants............the moms with babies always beautiful to watch......and yes, they do seem to smile often!

 Some birds not so pretty or dainty......a huge flock of vultures......

..........but always plenty of Lilac-breasted Rollers for eye candy. 

The camp was so enjoyable, comfortable, and set in such a beautiful place. The staff were delightful and shared their personal stories of living in Zimbabwe.

So we were off, heading toward Zambia on the opposite side of the mighty Zambezi River, excited about seeing Victoria Falls and visiting with old friends at the same camp we stayed at two years ago.

Loved our time in Zimbabwe - hope for better times ahead for the good people who call it home.