CP CREATIVES x ZIMBABWE
We were fortunate to begin the year with a really special time together in Zimbabwe; a place very dear to Kelly. Our trip began and ended at Kelly’s parents’ home in Harare. A huge shout out must go to Tracey and Trevor for having us and treating us to such generous hospitality - thank you. We would also like to thank African Bush Camps for having us in Bumi Hills and Mana Pools; both camps were beautiful and we were looked after so well.
Alex and I were first to join Kelly in Harare. We explored a few markets in the city and walked around the busy streets. It felt like a lot to take in on the first day - our senses were on overdrive! After a few hours in Harare we headed back to the suburbs and enjoyed some (moderately) friendly padel tennis. Ian and Henry joined us on day two and were unfortunately without their luggage. After some begging and borrowing, we had some outfits for them and were ready for our flight up to Bumi Hills.
Blessed with perfect flying conditions, the journey up to Bumi was enjoyable - before landing we had some spectacular views of Lake Kariba (the largest man made lake in the world). And our game spotting began before we were even off the plane! Two elephants were kind enough to greet us at the runway. At the lodge we were given a lovely warm welcome and made to feel at home straight away. The views from the Bumi Hills lodge over the lake are stunning. Often it is possible to watch a herd of elephants grazing on the plains down below during meal times on the deck. Our guide Mike was fantastic, he has such passion and love for the wildlife and nature. This rubbed off on the group and we are grateful for all that he shared with us. A highlight with him was an elephant approach on foot; a different experience to being in the car that’s for sure! It was so nice to get out on the lake too - we spent a night on a house boat and were again treated to such warm hospitality and excellent food!
On to Mana Pools and the charming Nyamatusi Camp; wow, what a place! The team were especially fond of the design and style of the camp and we really enjoyed filming it. Being right in amongst the bush here, a lot of wildlife could be spotted from the comfort of the camp. A pair of binoculars and you can watch the hippos bathing, crocs stalking and the colourful birdlife chirping. Again, we were blessed with a wonderful guide in Trymore, who found a lioness with her two young cubs. We had the privilege of spending 45 minutes or so with this family of three. It was a delight to watch the cubs playing with one another and how they look to their mother for guidance and protection. This was one of many birthday presents Ian was given while in Mana. The camp very kindly made a vegan cake for him and created a beautiful set up in the evening, with volleyball, drinks and snacks, all to the backing track of groaning hippopotamuses.
Back in Harare we reminisced about our time together in the bush. A week that has left an impact on all of us. We are so grateful to have been able to go on this trip, and we look forward to sharing more of what we captured soon.