11/10 –Chobe River Boat

Wow!  A very interesting day.  Start at 10:00am .  Our mission is to go to our Chobe River Boat for a three night stay.  Our Safari turns into a “Water Safari” for the three days.  Already in route to the boat our bus had to stop and allow a mama and baby elephant crossing the road.  A first for us.  Then came the customs / immigration routine.  We will be going into three countries today.  Leaving Zimbabwe, entering Botswana and Namibia  Each time need to stamp in and out.  One required shoe removal, Botswana (all shoes) to be washed (in dirty water I might add), for prevention of “Hoof & Mouth” disease.  We did,  patience is not my virtue but we survived.  Arriving at our last station, we now transfer to small “shuttle” boats to take us to our lodging boat.  Surveyed a small local community, mud houses.  Fortunately, porters cared for our luggage.  Guide tells us unemployment rate is 85%.  Ouch!!

Arriving at the boat at 1:45 prox., greeted by a very friendly staff.  Very nice boat, three decks, all to ourselves.  After a safety briefing, showed to our room and a buffet lunch was served thereafter.  Viewing animals / elephants etc. as we dine.

Our room is small but comfortable.  Queen bed and a small balcony.  Nap mid afternoon.

Prior to dinner we had a very nice presentation by the boat guide describing the area and history. Good information to have. After dinner the bed came quick.