Left Tuxtla Gutierrez at 8 am so we could get to Guatemala City by days end. Climbed high over a pass and was some spectacular scenery and 280 km later we were at the border at La Massilla and an hour later we were through the border . Another 290 km to go, and the road carves through huge mountains on either side of you for miles on end with speed bumps galore for 75 km. The road twists and turns for 230 km. and the buses drive at horrific speeds can barely overtake them. Arrived in Guatemala City in the dark and went straight to the hotel where Mario's wife was awaiting him. showered and went out for a fantastic dinner where the gang polished off a liter of whisky over dinner to celebrate their triumphant and safe return home. Ban Bans brother, Thomas, paid for everything and then they puffed on some Cuban cigars and then retired to bed.
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.