So, back in July, we had a most lovely time with our first summer visitor, Mr. Zac Willette. A charming fellow and world traveler himself, he had never been to Rwanda, so we gave him the royal Jones and Baker tour. It began with the requisite sign (below) for the airport arrival, fashioned by Ryder and Ginger (I added a little bit too). For the next 2 weeks, we took him high and low, though lakes and valleys and across the jungle to show him this great place. A good time was had by all, no doubt.
Zac settles into his role as Ryder's horse, page, and design consultant.
Ryder showed Zac how he like to unwind in his favorite red chair...
...and also the benefits of painting in his birthday suit. Easy cleanup!
Ginger and Zac took in a gorilla trek up in Virunga National Park. Before they met up, though, we drove Zac up to Musanze and got to know some of the locals. Ryder met these two gents from the Twa tribe, known for their pygmy heights. I just can't get enough of this picture - I think these guys are in their 40's.
Below, the guide for their gorilla trip shows them a little friend on the trail - a mixed-up chameleon.
Great shots, Zac!
No trip to Rwanda is complete without seeing the incredible Nyungwe Forest (and staying at the Lodge). We had a great time on our roadtrip out west, which takes about 5 hours.
Ryder Jones: tea farmer.
Once at the lodge, Ryder and Zac kicked off an intense game of Jenga while we checked in.
One thing that never disappoints in Nyungwe are the sunsets over the tea plantation. This trip was certainly no exception.
Inside the park, we had to do the Canopy Walk. Ryder is a pro at this, and he showed Zac the ropes. Literally.
Trust me! I'm a professional!
Aspen was especially impressed with the accomodations.
Zac braved the chimpanzee trek alone, and had a rough go of it, as far as getting close to the animals. However, on our drive home, we rounded a corner on the forest road and saw this chimpanzee taking a short cut. Watching him scamper down the road made up for the difficult trek.
Before we let him leave, I took Zac up to Lake Muhazi for some birding via canoe. A great morning on the lake and plenty of feathered friends.
Mariqua Sunbird
Pied Kingfisher
Malachite Kingfisher
African Paradise Flycatcher
Zac, sorry this post took so long to get up! We had a great time - thanks for making the trip!
