After an enjoyable morning exploring the area to the west of Namutoni Rest Camp, we dropped into the camp’s restaurant for coffee. We got talking to one of the few other customers there, who told us that he had encountered several hyenas at a water hole just to the north and that they were making a nuisance of themselves by just lying in the middle of it. So we drank our coffees quickly and headed for the location.
Much to our surprise we found the exact scene that had been described to us: a group of hyenas using the water hole as a paddling pool and scaring off all the other animals.
They, however, appeared to be completely unfazed by our presence as we watched their careful dances around the waterhole. Eventually – after what might have been the best part of an hour – a couple of giraffes plucked up the courage to have a drink and a few of the antelopes followed their example.
A little later the hyenas decided it was time to leave.
Their chosen exit route took them straight past our vehicle, so we had excellent opportunities for some close-up photos.
Just as everyone, including us, thought the waterhole was now a safe place for a drink, another hyena came running along, scattering the thirsty animals in all directions.
This time, however, they soon returned. Clearly, a single hyena was not seen as sufficient reason to forego a badly needed drink.
Experiences like this helps make a good safari trip a GREAT one!!