I stayed at the Gecko Inn in Richard's Bay. Very cute place and extremely nice staff. Incredible thunder and lightening storm tonight. I sat outside under cover and watched. Waiting for my ride to Phinda.

The driver was early so I arrived at Phinda early.  It was a little over 2 hours from Richard's Bay to the lodge. My driver was Zulu. He slowed down to point things out along the way and totally knew everyone. We stopped and waved to people, rolled down the window to say hello to people cooking food or selling things on the side of the road. Everyone waved to him. He brought along some snacks for me. I dove into the Biltong -- beef and springbok. He also brought some corn nuts (not packaged) and dried pineapple.  He insisted that I fill my pockets with the biltong -- made me laugh!

Later - the first game drive was cut short due to the thunder and lightening, but still got to see some great stuff.  Nyala, elephans, giraffe, leopard, impalas, wahlbergs eagle -- and move. I have the list in my notebook.  Had dinner with Chad, my ranger.