A herd of elephants is naturally correct described as a parade. Little did I know that my last elephant parade would march today.

The elephant sunset from last night was still lingering in my thoughts. What a privilege for me to experience such a raw and calm natural event. Just me in the dark.

It was still pitch dark around 5 am when I climbed out of the loftus tent. It’s bound to be another hot day. As always I wanted to make the most of the golden morning hours in the salt pans.

Most animals are active at dawn. Nonetheless, not today. Or not here. It was very quiet all around.

Rick explored further horizons as the sun slowly made an appearance.

These pans are flat to the horizon so that early and late sunlight isn’t blocked by mountains.

Stunning in its own right.

I decided to explore a sand track into the bush, you never know until you go. Track and field conditions were still in Zimba’s favor as the soft sand hadn’t warmed up yet. And with a little luck, hunters or predators may show up in front of my lens. I stalked some leopard tracks from overnight but no cats were to be seen.

Only a lonely elephant bull made chew with the little there is.

He looked rather skinny.

A large herd of wildebeest was on the move.

Springboks seem to follow them closely, it’s safety in numbers.

This concept applies to the large flocks around the water’s edge. Birds of prey patrol the area for an aerial assault. But no other mammals were to be seen.

I should get going to my overnight destination but those giants won’t walk off.

It was just after lunch as the heat was unimaginable. I hadn’t had a proper elephant fix today.

This will most likely be my last elephant parade for this African adventure.

Just one last stop at my favorite waterhole.

This puddle of mud appears to be a favorite of the elephants as well.

There is no better place to be in these steaming hot conditions.

I would have liked to join them.

Boy, those boys know how to entertain themselves. Pushing and shoving, scuffling and tussling.

I can never grow too old for these kinda shenanigans.

I will never get tired of their playful attitude. Age is no excuse to let your trunk down.

A huge bull walked from a far distance to this waterhole using the path provided. He only passed us a few meters away.

It is such a thrilling moment to see a mountain of muscle and bone dwarf you in its wake.