Isobel, Adam and Cassidy 

Today was our last day in the field, and while this was bitter sweet, our day at Tayari Luxery Tented Camp started with a bang when we were served amazing roasted potatoes for breakfast by our new chef Harrison. After this a few of us started washing our clothes in the sink to make sure we have clean outfits for the last two days, optimistic that they would dry nicely in the hot Savannah sun. 

At 10am, we had a great class discussion headed by Dr. Lougheed about the factors that contribute to the formation of the various ecosystems we have visited on this trip to this dramatically diverse country. Debates recommenced at 11: Renee, Rosstin and Hannah started us off with Hannah unveiling her alter ego as Stephen Lougheed for her debate persona to much laughter from the rest of the class. Sarah, Katie and Kearsten presented their debate next, prompting lots of lively discussion about women in conservation. While we debated, Jackson (the camp security guard) set up a blanket displaying various goods for sale, and some of us bought Maasai blankets and knives. After lunch, a herd of goats visited our campsite and had a grand time feasting on shrubs and our garbage to the delight of all (despite Mikaela trying to shoo them away). 

Later in the afternoon we listened to the final two debates, Olin, Mikaela and Lauren and Mica Mae, Megan and Isabella gave us a strong finish to our in-country assignments and Dr. Lougheed thanked us for our efforts that led to such invigorating discussion on conservation and social issues. Popcorn, tea and hot chocolate were a welcome addition to the final debates. Dr. Wang was shown a snake by Lukas during the debates and a few minutes were spent snake hunting once the debate finished but to no avail. Only Dr. Wang saw the long green guy but thankfully he snapped a picture to prove it was there. 

As the rain persisted, we started up a game of mafia and Isobel played God. Once again our evening concluded with an incredible meal and lots of laughter – Isobel took a slow motion tumble out of her chair which contributed to even more giggles. There are whisperings of heading to the camp bar/restaurant to end off our last night in the field but you’ll have to check in on us tomorrow to hear how that unfolds!! We are looking forward to eventually settling in for our last night in the Bunduz tents. We will miss camping and being in the wild dearly but some of us are definitely looking forward to sleeping in beds again.

Bye for now 🙂 

Mikaela, Lauren and Olin debate

Isobel questioning gravity

Dilini in her bright green shirt

Megan, Isabella and Mica Mae debate

Popcorn! Popcorn!

Another delicious dinner

Working under the big tent – no tiny car, giant shoes, no big red nose

Washing

purple grenadier, one of many birds flitting about our camp