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Day 12, Jack's Camp - This baobab is most likely the oldest tree in Africa, between 4,000 and 6,000 years old! Often referred to as Chapman's Baobab, the tree served as a beacon and campsite for early explorers such as Livingstone. Remnants of early carvings can still be seen at the base of the tree. However, the baobab's natural healing process eventually erases such markings. |
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Seven great trucks rise upward from a common base. The tree is also known as the Seven Sisters. Approaching this baobab for the first time from afar, a cursory glance at the horizon made our final destination obvious. Early explorers also used the tree as a post office box! It would take around 9 months for a piece of mail left at the tree to reach England. |
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A complex system of roots stretch outward for hundreds of feet. The remote location of this baobab is thought to be one of the reasons for its longevity - tucked away from human populations and elephants who favor its bark. |
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Maretsi is a local youth who our guides referred to as the guardian of the great baobab. He pops up when visitors from Jack's Camp visit. This photo of Jack, Kathaleen and Maretsi was taken at a small, nearby village. |
| Fences comprised of fallen branches driven into the ground line areas of this small farm. |  |
