Catching Rainbows

 

February 20 – Day 6

We’ve slept in a bit and get up about 8:30, but we are disappointed to find that the large crowd leaving early for game drives have pretty much exhausted the buffet offerings, and the burners have been allowed to extinguish on most of the trays, so we are left with coffee and tea – no one wants a cold breakfast.

The dining room and bar area are beautiful, but cold breakfast is not to our liking

 We pack up and put our luggage in the storage room, then some of us take turns on the large forest swing that sends a person out over the forest valley.  Davis then drives us to the top of Murchison Falls, where we enjoy the stunning views and marvel at the immense power of nature.  Murchison is generally accepted as the most powerful waterfall in the world, with the large flow of the Nile funnelled through a narrow gorge.  The misty shower is very welcome in the rising heat of the day.

Bonnie takes a zen moment amidst nature's display of power

 

These black and blue tents are hung throughout the park.  They are designed to capture insects which Davis says are tested for disease as an early warning system

Davis has planned a short-cut to Jinja over a dusty road to bypass the craziness of Kampala traffic and fortunately the Lodge provides us with large garbage bags for the luggage that will be strapped to the roof.

 Leaving at noontime, we stop in Masindi for Rolexes and fuel, then embark on the long drive.  The shortcut road is truly challenging, with deep ruts and washed-out portions, and we experience a couple of red-outs after passing oncoming lorries which leave thick clouds of dust in their wake.

 

Mosques are a common sight in Uganda, but few are this grand

We arrive at 30 Wilson near 7:30 – just in time for last call at the dining room.  We meet Keith, a Caucasian Zimbabwean who is the chef and has been managing the compound for the past 2 ½ years.  We occupy two 3-bedroom cottages complete with kitchens.  The meals are very good, even by Canadian standards, and Keith demonstrates a willingness to accommodate everyone’s needs and preferences.

Jackie arrives, and we discuss plans for the upcoming visit from the Kulikayo-sponsored kids.