We thought it would be a wonderful idea to begin the New Year by visiting Tikal just as it opened at 6:00 AM. However, when our alarm sounded at 4:00 AM, I will admit to having second thoughts. Nevertheless, we persevered, awoke the clerk at the desk of our hotel to retrieve our boxed breakfast, and met Noe who was waiting for us at 5:00. True to our plan, we arrived at Tikal just as it opened at 6:00. Walking through the now somewhat familiar area virtually by ourselves in the early morning mist was quite a special experience. We retraced our steps of the previous day, marveling in the quiet mystery and majesty. Taking advantage of our extra time, we went much farther afield, spending much more time at Temple V, the Plaza of the Seven Temples, and El Mundo Perdido. Noe was a font of information on the history and culture of the entire area. He also had a keen eye, calling to and pointing out various birds and monkeys and of course the plentiful coati. We saw a crocodile as well, but alas, no jaguar. After quite an extensive tour, we returned to our hotel to pack for the trip home. Once we were organized, we took a leisurely stroll through Flores, scoping out a place for out last Guatemalan meal. Our walk along the relatively new malecon was accompanied by an ever-evolving, lingering and stunning sunset. We ended the evening with quite a satisfying meal at Captain Tortuga, accompanied by several bottles of Gallo, the excellent Guatemalan beer.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.