The “What If” factor…
We have done road trip columns before, but today I specifically wanted to talk about the “What If” factor… Let me give you an example. I am currently busy planning a trip to the West Coast flowers. But here’s the thing… There are different flower ‘zones’ – so you could see them in the North (read Richtersveld). You could see them around Springbok and the Namaqua National Park. You can see them around the “bulb capital of the world” – Nieuwoudtville. Or you can simply see them in the West Coast National Park. Seldom, however, do they always flower at the same time.
Now each of these regions COULD flower at a different time (and they usually do). There is simply no way to predict when the flowers will be out. When did the winter rains start? How much rain was there? What are the temperatures like? The complication is that, during flower season, accommodation is fully booked months and months ahead. Or, you can get the bookings, be there at the perfect time and have all the flowers in the world to photograph – and you have an overcast day. When the sun isn’t out, nor, typically, are the daisies.
So, what to do? When you plan a trip around a natural phenomenon, unless you are local and can simply “pop” out to see it, you need to make sure you have alternatives. I’m not going to divulge this trip’s “Plan B” – because you will read all about it from September onwards. Simply know that there are plenty of alternatives in play…
What other events could prove problematic in terms of planning? Well, the Sardine Run is another typical example. People will tell you they can predict when the sardines will run – but few are ever correct. Somewhere between May and July, the sardines move north along the Eastern coast of South Africa, from the Cape to KwaZulu-Natal. Where can you see them? Well, as I’m sure you’ve already guessed, “it depends” – which, by the way, is a typical response from locals too! East London often proves to be a good spot during the beginning of the run. The Wild Coast is considered one of the better viewing areas, and Port St Johns is simply sublime. But not always. Wherever you go, not only will you see the sardines, but also a large array of sharks, dolphins, seals, whales, Cape Gannets etc. Considered the world’s “greatest marine spectacle”, the Sardine Run attracts many divers and photographers from overseas as well – making a missed moment even more expensive with even higher stakes. Once again, have alternative plans.
The turtles nesting on the beaches in the Sodwana region is another of these natural phenomena. This takes place between November and January each year (so an even longer period of uncertainty). You can view the turtles laying their eggs, and you can view the hatchlings emerging and making their way down to the ocean (approximately 60 days later). Once again – there is no certainty. Be sure to add some dives, trips for sunrise and sunset, visit local parks etc. If you don’t get to see the ‘main event’, at least your trip was not wasted!
The whales in Hermanus are another attraction. Between August and October, the area is frequented by huge, 50-ton southern right whales. This is perhaps slightly more predictable, as they are known to hang around for some time once they have arrived – but nothing is ever guaranteed.
The most obvious “disappointment” (especially for overseas guests) is not seeing the Big Five (or some other special animal they are particularly interested in) on a game drive / visit to a wilderness area.
It is under these circumstances that a good guide truly comes to the fore, focusing on everything from birds to dung beetles and termites. At the end of that drive, the guest will likely still be happy – because, in truth, nothing is guaranteed in the bush.
The reality of any trip is that, whilst you have a specific goal in mind, you are effectively missing out on a whole other level of attractions in the surrounding areas. Do some homework, find your plan B, C and even D. Your experience will be the richer for it – and even if you don’t get to see ‘the main attraction’, your trip will still be most enjoyable!
Be sure to make discoveries along the way, enjoy the journey and the company.
Most important advice? Live in the moment…
Jacqui Ikin & The Cross Country Team