The town of Flores is a pretty little island, with colorful shops and restaurants and a gorgeous lakeside area. The highlight of our walking tour, though, occurred when we reached the square in front of the church at the top of the hill. While having some really good ice cream and sitting in the shade under some small trees, we heard a man playing the guitar and singing for a few of his friends, who were enjoying the warm afternoon - as well as a few local beers. The scene was idyllic, and we stayed there for almost an hour. Oh, and the ice cream was great!
We also took a side trip to the canopy bridges nearby at Ixpanpajul, where we were able to cross some cable bridges VERY high above the jungle floor. It was an excellent experience, but it, too, involves a somewhat long uphill hike through the jungle, so if you go, wear hiking boots, and bring your camera. You can buy water at the 2/3 point high up in the mountain, and can even stretch out on some hammocks to take a break.
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.