We divided into groups this morning for horseback riding, hiking and biking. Both kids wanted to go horseback riding again, but mom opted out since there were limited horses. Matthew rode with me on our short trip up the mountain for a view over the community.
After the ride, we started back to Quito, stopping along the way for lunch at a traditional Indian restaurant. They had a clay oven for baking and long tables with benches running along. The guinea pigs (later served to adventurous eaters) ran outside and charmed the kids as we entered. Appetizers consisted of fava beans, potatoes, and roasted corn followed by potato soup. Then we had chicken, carrots, and the ubiquitous cheese and avocado of the area. I couldn't eat much after the roasted guinea pig was brought in for everyone to try. Fortunately, they didn't hold to their threat that anyone who didn't try it wouldn't be allowed to get on the Galapagos flight as our family would have all been stuck in Quito!
After lunch, we walked to the home of a famous Andean musician who showed us a range of instruments from Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador. We headed back to Quito and ordered pizza for dinner.
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.