Another day, another waterfall—but what a day it’s been! We started off from the hotel campground at our usual 7 a.m. breakfast and 8 a.m. departure. (Let’s be honest, though—this group is always a bit ahead of schedule. Breakfast is now basically a 6:45 affair, with everyone pretending it’s still 7.)
I’m proud to say I’ve perfected the art of the rapid pack-up. My current record is 20 minutes flat: 7 minutes to wake up and pack my gear, 13 minutes to dismantle the tent. Efficiency, thy name is overlanding.
The plan for today was simple: hit the road, aim for a stunning waterfall, and camp there. But, as is often the case, the universe decided to toss in a plot twist. The roads, which Paul remembered were glorified goat tracks, were unexpectedly smoother. Great news for Paul’s left leg and Nala’s suspension, but it meant we arrived at the waterfall way ahead of schedule.
The catch? The idyllic camping spot we’d envisioned and Paul remembered from his last time, is now the site of a luxury resort under construction. We could still visit the waterfall (and thank goodness for that!), but camping there was a no-go unless we wanted to pitch our tents in gravel pits and mud. So, with a bittersweet farewell to our dream spot, we set off to find a bush camp that’s less hard hats required. (Though TIA — it’s more like safety jandals required).
As for the waterfall itself? Absolute magic. I took a shower right there under the rushing water, and it was every bit as glorious as you’d imagine. The water wasn’t warm by any means, but it wasn’t the kind of ice-cold that makes you rethink your life choices. It was the perfect blend of refreshing and revitalizing. A few minutes there, and all the dust, sweat, and grime of the road melted away.
Tomorrow, it’s off to Conakry for a bit of bureaucratic fun—visa hunting for the next leg of the journey. But tonight? We’ll find our little patch of wilderness, set up camp, and fall asleep under the stars, dreaming of waterfalls and the promise of more adventures to come.
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