The trip was wonderful—what a beautiful country! We arrived in Antigua late at night and arose to paradise the next morning. We emerged from our room surrounded by beautiful flowers. As we looked around at our new environment, we saw a volcano erupt and spit a large puff of smoke into the sky.
On the way to Lake Atitlan, we stopped at the market in Chichicastenango; the colors and patterns were so pretty and vibrant. We were eager to purchase something and contribute to the local economy—no middle person involved. Kristen bought a mask and a piece of lovely needlework.
Then we proceeded to the lake by van and boat—such a beautiful trip rich with views of mountains, villages, people and foliage. We stayed on the edge of Santiago Atitlan right on the lake; just a 30-minute walk into town. We learned that Santiago has a population of 45,000 people and 35 evangelical churches. We arrived there Sunday evening so we experienced the evidence of these churches and their services as the lovely sound of people singing bounced across the lake. We sat outside in the dark overlooking the lake listening to voices of the people singing as if it were our own personal lullaby.
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.