Malcolm Fenton | Monday, September 14, 2015
“Yes, you should go to Lajuma.”
I completely endorse what my team-mates Jan and Pam write here about Lajuma and the outstanding researchers and staff who helped make our stay so meaningful and joyous. (We also had a great team!). I will add new commentary here, mainly about the general environment and camp.
Cliffs, forests and thickets predominate, with some lovely patches of grassland, clear, rushing streams, and, in places, prehistoric paintings under rock overhangs. It is glorious to walk freely in the African bush, occasionally looking out over the plains below, or up to the sky where eagles and vultures soar. Spending time with habituated primates is simply magical. In addition, you may see animals such as bushbuck and red duiker, and quite a few birds.
The Research Camp is glorious, perched on a ledge overlooking the plains below. It is comfortable, simple and serene. A communal living/eating/lecture area opens to a garden centered about a campfire. Sleeping accommodations exceeded my expectations, and there is some single-room availability.
Admire the mists drifting over the mountain ridges as you step out at dawn. Sneak up on the nearby rock hyrax colony as they soak up the morning rays. Feel a rush of connection as a baboon sits down to contemplate you as he drifts through the camp. Stuff yourself with delicious food. Enjoy great company. Learn a lot.
My thanks to all at Lajuma and to my fellow team-mates. If you can go, I recommend joining this wonderful Expedition.