Chessells in Africa:

Fri 18^th Oct

So much can happen in a day when you expect the unexpected! God’s creation is so wonderful. Thurs we flew MAF with pilot Simon from Yei to Arua.  It was quite strange sitting at Yei airport waiting for our plane as we were the only ones flying and the airport is in the middle of nowhere.  The MAF flight has been known to be several hours late depending on their schedule. Fortunately for us it was only 10 mins late. On arrival at Arua, Uganda, just the 7 of us, our bags were thoroughly searched on a table outside, our passports stamped and then the wait for a taxi big enough to fit us all..  That afternoon after settling in our accom we took a “boda” ride into town.  These guys are amazingly good at dodging the potholes in the road.  One really needs to hang on well.  In town we were shocked by the busyness of this little town-even busier than Yei.  Crossing the road was a real dare devil experience.  A malk through the markets is a must.  They go on for ever with anything and everything.  Very hot, humid and stifling.  Back home on a boda.                                                                                                 This morning we were picked up by our guide, Ronald & driver Osmund, for the next part of our holiday—game park visit. After a 2 hour drive we arrived at Murchison National Park where the top of the vehicle was lifted and we got to stand with our heads looking out the top. To our amazement within minutes we saw giraffes, antelopes, water buffalo, wart hogs  & Elephants.  On arrival at the Lodge we were given a 3 course meal and for the rest of the afternoon we hung out around the pool. Our accom here is right on the banks of the River Nile and from our balcony we can watch it flow by.  The food here is amazing which is great for the Pooles who have had limited meals for the past 6 months. We have been warned not to wander at night. Tomorrow we will take an early morning game drive followed be a cruise to the bottom of the falls and a hike up to the top of the falls.            If you don’t here from me tomorrow I may not have made it back. I am praying for an overcast day.