It is the dream of many safari tourists to get up close and personal with African wildlife.
Garth Kew didn’t expect to see an elephant on his doorstep.
When he looked out of his window at the Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa, an elephant was looking back at him.
Garth Kew was terrified when he looked outside to see an elephant by the window
The holidaymakers grabbed his camera and ventured outside to snap some pictures
The wildlife lover had the fright of his life when the wild animal came so close to his holiday accommodation.
But, despite the danger, he managed to snap a few photographs from his room.
He soon discovered the inquisitive elephant was just looking around, and he went outside to capture the animal enjoying the sunshine.
The Big 5 game reserve of Madikwe is a “Big 5” area, and lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos are free to roam.
Because the lodge is next to a river, it is a frequent watering hole, and Mr. Kew has even heard of elephants drinking from the outdoor showers at holiday homes.
The elephant was thought to be seeking water and didn’t appear to pose a threat.
According to Mr. Kew, the elephant was simply about his nose around the camp.
‘The elephant was not enticed or encouraged – I’m not sure how that could have been done,’ Mr. Kew added.
‘It was simply ambling down to have a drink.’
After capturing the unique photographs, Mr. Garth watched the elephant walk off into the bush.
