Just watched Zambia lose 2-0 to Algeria, in a kind of pub full of Zambian supporters. Even though losing, what a cheerful and happy nation – there was no gloom, just laughing and enthusiasm even after the match. Huge load-shedding power cuts here in Lusaka ( in fact all of Zambia) stays off for about 6 hours at a time, most days.
After expensive border crossing ( about R1000 for us & our vehicle to enter Zambia) – we took the track upstream ( 4 ½ hours /130km) along the Zambezi,
staying over a few days near Ngonye Falls, Sioma, where we had a wonderful swim, where some local women found it safe to bathe. Nevertheless kept all eyes open for crocs. Not nearly as high as Vic Falls, but about 8 different falls coming in from all sides. The Zambezi splits into many sections just above the falls. Difficult to get near to main falls. Picture below makes them look very small and low, but is pretty impressive.
Sharon 'on the rocks' after the swim
Next day, crossed the Zambezi further up on the ‘pontoon’. If all goes ok, we should be crossing it again on the way down in Mozambique in a few months time.
Some fish caught by locals in the Zambezi at the ferry. I asked what kind of fish, the answer "Just fish"
Following the ferry was the most tiring section of “road” ever. At a puddle with a stuck Landy, some guy pointed a course, and without hesitation (no going back from here!) we just went thru, -thanks be to God- water over bonnet, Colt & caravan bouncing over the unseen holes and sandbanks. The local told me afterwards “ You drive like military!”
Some fish caught by locals in the Zambezi at the ferry. I asked what kind of fish, the answer "Just fish"
Following the ferry was the most tiring section of “road” ever. At a puddle with a stuck Landy, some guy pointed a course, and without hesitation (no going back from here!) we just went thru, -thanks be to God- water over bonnet, Colt & caravan bouncing over the unseen holes and sandbanks. The local told me afterwards “ You drive like military!”
Some guys appeared out of the bush with planks ( which didn't help) at this washed away bridge.
One view ( near Mongu) of the HUGE Barotse floodplain - the source of the Zambezi
One view ( near Mongu) of the HUGE Barotse floodplain - the source of the Zambezi
Barbershop in Mongu. I didn't try out their haircuts.
After several hours we found ourselves at Mongu, and the next morning visited and stayed over at Mutoya, an AOG church base where we met many old friends – a lovely community of believers who are there for varying lengths of time, from months o many years – doing beautiful things for Jesus in the community and surrounding areas, from schooling, healthcare, training pastors and growing the church in the area. Check out their website: http://www.zam.co.za/home/Vision/vision.html
Lihana van der Merwe at her house at Mutoya
On leaving Mongu, our dear hardworking Colt complained of stuck rear difflock, and also noticed oil leak from front diff. After several hours work, managed to get it driveable and got a proper fix at Mitsubishi when we got to Lusaka.
Leaving Mongu late in the afternoon, drove for a few hours, but no campsites or an such thing to be found. Pulled off the road at a 'ZAIN' cellular mast, complete with guard and he alowed us to camp there. Shared our supper of toasted cheese & tomtato sarmies with im & his friends, who were intruiged by our house on wheels. By 5 am next morning, from nowhere, there was quite a group of people sitting around his fire, waiting for the 'aliens to open the hatch'.
On leaving Mongu, our dear hardworking Colt complained of stuck rear difflock, and also noticed oil leak from front diff. After several hours work, managed to get it driveable and got a proper fix at Mitsubishi when we got to Lusaka.
Leaving Mongu late in the afternoon, drove for a few hours, but no campsites or an such thing to be found. Pulled off the road at a 'ZAIN' cellular mast, complete with guard and he alowed us to camp there. Shared our supper of toasted cheese & tomtato sarmies with im & his friends, who were intruiged by our house on wheels. By 5 am next morning, from nowhere, there was quite a group of people sitting around his fire, waiting for the 'aliens to open the hatch'.
Hi guy's, I always read your stories about your travels 2x just in case i miss something.Its becomeing such a good read.Travel well my friends, miss you
ReplyDeleteLove Harold
Hey, great going. Eish...water over the bonnet - not for the faint hearted I guess, but you wouldnt be there if you were. Continue to have a great time!
ReplyDeleteWe're in the middle of winter stormy weather - it'll be raining most of this week. I noted Sharon's sleeveless top - much to my envy.
Lots love to you both.
God bless you on your travels.
R
Happy Birthday Sharon - hope you had a great day! Nice to log onto your blog again. What beautiful photos you have taken. Seems like you are really having a great time! Niki and Iain arrive back from Japan 28 July - can't wait. Little Benjamin turns one year old on Saturday 25 July. Can't beleive a whole year has gone by.Just now you'll be back too!lots love to you both - Miss you!Steph
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