Thomas,

I only wish a rifle was possible to bring on such trips. But alas it is not. Unless one wants to get acquainted with an african prison, which is not a nice thought! The one question we almost invariably got when crossing boarders was if we had any weapons. And they seach vehicles too, although we were spared this for the most time. I think due to our calm and courteous demeanour, and at the same time letting them understand that we wouldn't tolerate BS. Showing that you are easily intimidated is the fisrt step towards major hassle with african police/soldiers/paramilitary. They'll milk you for every drop they're able to just for the fun of it...

The fact that we in some countrys could drive a mere 50 km into the country and purchase an blackmarket AK-47 was obviously not important to them! And then there is the fact that in west africa (which is closest, and thus easiest to access) there are very few animals left. At least until you get to Burkina Faso, Ghana, Togo and Benin...

As for kids "travel appreciation age", I agree with you. However, our thoughts have been more towards when she will be old enough to explain where something is hurting, basic needs etc., and less towards her understanding what she is seeing. That'll be for later trips!

I see by the name you call me that you've been to our website.

Hope you enjoyed it!

good hunting/shooting/off-roading/adventuring to you too!

Erik