When this massive bull elephant crossed Don’s path during Ultimate Africa: Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe Safari, he knew he was in a bit of a dilemma.
By Don Drissel, 17-time traveler from Seal Beach, CA
On our very first O.A.T. trip, my wife and I went on O.A.T.'s Ultimate Africa adventure. It was a wonderful trip, full of rich cultural experiences and close safe encounters with the abundant wildlife. However, I did have one interesting encounter. Near the end of our trip, we were camped in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. After a morning game drive, and after lunch back at the main camp, I walked back to my tent to retrieve a spare camera battery. I intended to go back to the main lodge, but an unexpected run-in with a bull elephant changed things.
My tent was near the end of the camp. I was alone on a dirt path and from my right through thick dense foliage, a bull elephant came onto the path about 30 yards in front of me. So there we were, facing each other wondering what the other was going to do. The elephant was first to make up his mind and he started to approach me. Fortunately a tree was nearby and I ducked behind it. The elephant continued approaching and eventually positioned himself on the other side of the tree.
While hiding behind a tree, Don managed to snap this photo of his acquaintance.
So here we are again, not more than 10 yards apart, figuring out our next move. I had nowhere to go, as I knew I could not out run my new friend. The elephant seemed content to stay on his side of the tree as it offered him an opportunity to eat some of the top foliage. Eventually, camp personnel came upon our situation and with a lot of hooting and hollering eventually drove off the elephant. Much to my relief I might add.
I had a camera with me at the time and decided might as well photograph my own demise.
Get up close to majestic elephants—but hopefully from a safe distance—during our Ultimate Africa: Botswana, Zambia & Zimbabwe Safari adventure.
