Zimba and I been tackling soft sand all day and it was time for a break for the two of us. I found a shady spot in the high grass by the river, only a few hippos were playing around. I had a careful look around, no sign of danger. Well, so I thought. I jumped out of the car to get my coffee and carrot salad. Munching on my salad and enjoying the view, I noticed a different shape next to a scrub.

Odd shape, I thought. I didn’t notice when I looked earlier. Could that be? Yes, it was. A leopard. Relaxing in shady I grass, I must have disturbed her rest. She didn’t seem to be bothered by my presence.

I almost spilled my coffee searching for the OM-D. A leopard! After all these hours driving and searching in previous parks, this one just appeared out of nowhere.

She wasn’t too impressed by my oversized Zimba, or had rested long enough. I got a few photos as she walked away in opposite direction. I wasn’t happy with that. A track leads parallel to the river. I quickly got in gear and cut towards the river a bit further up.

My plan worked out as she was proudly walking towards me,

still on the lookout for possible prey.  

She wasn’t overly big, but healthy and in great shape.

Stopping now and then to scout the area, she kept on walking along the river. She is hungry and on the prowl.

My adrenaline was pumping as she came closer and closer.

She wasn’t interested in me at all, but the fact that I finally got that wanted leopard photo opportunity. I managed a few nice shots, but could have done better, I think.

She passed Zimba’s back and kept moving along the river.

The area was swampy and the 2 wheel track lead a2ay from the river.

I gambled on a spot where she could possibly emerge, but that never happened. But wow, what a brief, memorable encounter with this graceful animal. 

My coffee had gotten cold, but my adrenaline was still pumping from my leopard encounter.