After a brief and bumpy flight from Jo-berg to Hoedspruit we arrived at Kruger Park. 

We ran into our rooms to drop off our bags. Then swiftly showered as if the hot water was something below Celsius. And we were off like our dirty shirts. Three women ready to experience our first open sided safari before sunset. 

In the distance we heard the rustling of trees and a crackle of branches. As we approached a parade of roughly 60 elephants. I was taken aback how about 500 tons could move so quietly. A testament to their gentle nature. 

We watched mothers and aunties teach their babies how to break a branch to clear a path. Then we cleared the way for them as they brushed up aside our vehicle- giving us a steady rock. 

We were studied by curious hippos who dared us to come closer. 

Saw a cheeky rhino roll in the mud to offset the heat of spring.

We followed a pride of lines lovingly groom each other to then later witness them teach their cubs to kill.  

I was relatively new to vlogging — toggling between photo and video. Going back and forth from two cameras — Sony to Canon and fixed to zoom lenses. Consistently shifting gears, feeling like I was falling short of my Nat Geo dreams. Struggling as if I were an octopus on land. 

I learned a lot about photography on this trip. I was inspired by the conservation efforts of the people and the park. But what I learned about myself was the most valuable. 

Love for the natural world and the people in it has always been in me. Using my gift to create change is ultimately where I want to be.