There is a certain demographic of people who enjoy camping. Not glamping, not pitching a tent in the backyard, but camping. That demographic of people could be described as enjoying “Type B fun.” However, I believe that even that would be a stretch to describe last night. Apparently a rare wind storm(?) passing through Olduvai Gorge just happened to coincide with our arrival and first night camping. On the edge of a cliff. Of a wind tunnel. On a plateau made up entirely of dust, sand, and sediment. Needless to say, the group was not happy waking up this morning. Personally, I feel like the inside of my nose, mouth, eyes, lungs, and every surface on my body has been sandblasted.
The instant coffee, coupled with innumerable cups of Kilimanjaro Premium Blend black tea, helped me recuperate. Still, when we departed for Olbalal lake, I was feeling downtrodden. Tanzania has had a magical way of cheering me up with a magical sight every time I’m exhausted or simply done, and today was no exception. Setting up camera traps was a fun activity for a short day, and just as I succumbed to my exhaustion on the drive back to camp, we encountered quite a sight. Now, before I tell you what it is, I want you to answer this question: what day is it? June 21st. What is the significance of June 21st? Well, since you asked– June 21st just happens to be international giraffe day. And what did we happen upon on the drive? A HERD OF SIXTY GIRAFFES. They were standing in the midst of a perfectly golden field, snacking on acacia branches while staring at our Cruisers approaching.
Now, for reference, the typical herd of giraffes is about 10 to 20. The most we had seen in a herd on this trip was MAYBE seven. And there were dozens upon dozens of Masai giraffes, looking at us just as we looked at them. Yet another magical moment in a series of magical moments.
Today was a much-needed day of rest– after returning, we made a quick jaunt over to one of the Olduvai Gorge museums before returning to camp, listening to taxon presentations (I was informed mine was “enlightening”), and once again, overindulging in tea.
Happy International Giraffe Day to all, and to all a good night!!
Rose
