Rediscovering the Present in Matobo National Park
Last week, I reflected on a poignant realisation: the intensity of my recent travels had somewhat dulled my ability to fully appreciate the present moment. After the exhilarating experiences at Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River cruise, the contrast left me struggling to savour the subtle beauty around me. I had been overwhelmed by the rapid thrills of my journey, which made the slower pace of some experiences feel subdued.
This week, however, things changed. After crossing into Zimbabwe, I found myself in the stunning Matobo National Park. The journey to this serene destination was an adventure in itself-hiking, hitchhiking, and relying on the generosity of locals who selflessly helped me along the way. It’s a humbling feeling to realise how many people quietly support your journey. The universe seems to conspire to guide you to where you need to go, not with grand gestures, but through countless small acts of kindness that build up over time. HelloDune7
Arriving at a local hostel, I discovered that the main attraction in Matobo is rhino trekking on foot. The park is home to both black and white rhinos, reintroduced from Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Zambezi Valley.
Tracking these magnificent creatures is a morning activity led by an experienced guide who helps you identify signs such as tracks and droppings, and along the way, you encounter a variety of other wildlife. Coincidentally, the hostel owner, who also happened to be my guide, noticed that I lacked local transport. Showing remarkable kindness, he offered to drive me to the park in his truck and guide me on the trek. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity was particularly special for me, and his gesture was a testament to the warmth and generosity that can emerge from unexpected encounters.
This experience reminded me of my friend Jeremy, whom I met in 2012 while climbing Kilimanjaro. His genuine kindness and enthusiasm for life were infectious. We stayed in touch after our climb, and his support for my adventures was unwavering. Jeremy had been excited about my trip to Zimbabwe and had even suggested visiting his mum for some rest. Regrettably, I didn’t manage to take up his offer, and as I re-edit this in post in 2024, I deeply regret not spending more time with him. Jeremy’s sudden passing in 2021 left a void, but his memory remains vivid, reminding me of the profound impact some people can have on our lives.
Back to the rhino trek:
As we hiked through the vast landscape, anticipation built up. I wondered how difficult it could be to spot a rhino in such a wide-open space. Suddenly, my guide tapped my shoulder and pointed to a bush about 15 meters away. My eyes had been scanning the horizon, so the sight of the rhino so close was both startling and exhilarating.
Adrenaline surged through me as I realised the enormous creature was right there. My heart raced as I stood frozen, unable to even whisper a greeting for fear of startling the rhino. The park ranger, holding an AK47, calmly instructed us to remain still and not move. In that moment, I was fully present, utterly captivated by the raw majesty of the animal before me.
This encounter was a profound reminder of the importance of living in the present, appreciating the beauty and power of nature in its most raw and unfiltered form. It was a moment that made me grateful for the unexpected turns and the quiet acts of kindness that guide us along our journey.
