Why the long face? You're having a Giraffe.

 

Shall we, shan't we?

Whilst watching the elephant crossing in their dozens, we also watched a herd of Giraffe trying to cross. 

It was clear Giraffe are not decisive decision makers - time after time they started to cross, but the big male at the back then refused, meaning the rest turned around. 

We never did see them cross.

Close to the action

Bush walks aren't usually the opportunity to see game - you take a vehicle for that. But here, in South Luangwa with the expert guides camps provide, even a walk can bring you into close contact with game.

Here we encountered a group of Giraffe, who, with our calm and quiet approach stood until we were less than 100m away - and even then they simply sauntered off just a few metres to maintain their comfort distance.

Long necked attraction

As the Rift Valley deepened, the giraffes in the Luangwa area became geographically separated from their original extended population and evolved based on slightly different environmental factors. This has given the Luangwa subspecies – known as Thornicroft’s – slightly shorter stature and unique coat markings.

Sightings of these stately mammals are very common throughout South Luangwa where they can be found selecting the finest browse with long, mobile lips and prehensile tongues.

We saw many on drives and got close to others on foot whilst walking in the bush with the excellent guides from Nkonzi Bush Camp.

High Society

Someone has a drink problem