Carmine Cliffs Traditional Geocache
greenmealie: Sadly a private camp has been built at this remote spot.
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(micro)
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The cache consists plastic jam jar and has a log book in a zip bag, pencil and swag. The jar has geocache stickers explaining that it is an official game piece. A torch would be a good idea to check out if there are any creepy crawlies first before recovering the cache. Please ensure the cache is placed in the same manner for ease of the next geocacher.
This Cache is on private property and permission to visit must be got from Kathleen Boulton +263 783 181 101 or email kathleen@chirundusafarilodge.com.
9.5 kms Downstream of the Otto Beit Bridge the Zambezi River opens up to a width of over 1000 meters splitting around Kanyemba Island. On the southern side of this island, in Zimbabwean waters, the river meanders through and around a number of sand banks and reed islands.
The Zimbabwean Bank has a section of cliffs where hundreds of Carmine Bea-eaters (Merops nubicoides) burrow their nests into the cliffs during the months of August to November. Nesting is at the end of a 1-2m long burrow in an earthen bank, where the lay from 2-5 eggs.
This highly sociable species like other bee-eaters, is a richly coloured , striking bird, predominantly carmine in colouration, but with the crown and undertail coverts blue.
The cache is upstream of this ornithological phenomenon where you will find a small inlet and deep shade. A welcome break from the midday sun, which can reach 40 to 50 degrees in the summer months.
Access to this cache is by Boat or canoe only. Launch your boat at Chirundu or hire a boat from the local boat hire company. The Chalets in Chirundu offer affordable accommodation and are situated on the river bank surrounded by rolling green lawns. An alternate is to book a canoe trip from Chirundu to Mana Pools, an adventurous way of experiencing the mighty Zambezi River. Canoe trips can be booked on line.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Fhfcraqrq ba svfuvat genpr va gur ubyr bs n gerr. N fubeg pyvzo nobir sybbq yriry.