Africa, with travel love

Dear Africa,

I know your wild and wonderous. I know some of the humans of your land hurt you and your incredible wildlife. I want you to know that you’re the destination that I hold near and dear.

You are the destination that opened my eyes to how important it is for wildlife to be free to roam their lands, just like us humans.

You are the destination that rings in my ears as the sound of pure nature.

You are the destination that brings tears to my eyes and lumps in my throat when I hear of the destruction humans are doing to you and those you hold near and dear.

I feel sad to know some species that call you home are endangered and some extinct.

And yet, the feeling of Africa never leaves you once you’ve visited.

You share your absolute beauty with so many that it affects us. It leaves a mark on our hearts. In our lives. A mark that will never leave and yet never be seen.

Africa, I thank you.

Thank you for sharing the fantastic gift of life of mountain gorillas with me. They are such gentle giants, at peace in the bush. Free, beautiful and healthy. Just the way they should be allowed to be.

Thank you for letting me discover species of antelope that I’d never heard of before like the kudu and oryx. The oryx is an absolute stunning and unique creature, just like you.

Thank you for showing me how so many different animals can live wild and free together in open plains. I believe us humans could learn a thing or two from you.

Thank you for showing me not to be scared. Do those once in a lifetime things.

Bungee jump over the Nile in Uganda.

Sleep under the stars in Spitzkoppe with nothing but a sleeping bag to cover me.

Wake up at the crack of dawn to spot wildlife.

Watch those beautiful sunsets.

Relish every moment that the world provides you.

Africa, you’re a travel destination I always share stories and photographs from. You’re the one destination that I believe everyone should have the chance to visit once in their lives… but only if they treat you and those who call you home with up most respect. No matter colour, beliefs or number of legs or wings.

Africa, I live to return for a third time again someday and I know you’ll be as amazing as ever.

With love,

Kiwi Footprints (aka Ngaire)

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Check out more blog posts and photographs from Africa on this page:
https://kiwifootprints.com/category/africa/

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This was this month’s travel linkup all about love for a special travel destination. What’s your special place?