Well, not exactly ''Planes, Trains and Automobiles'', today was boat, van, and airplane. Because of our long travel day, we got an early start, being picked up at the Posada boat dock by Gary, and then picking up our travel companions at their hotel boat dock. We soon learned that the wind of the previous afternoon was just a harbinger of things to come. The wind, while not gale force, certainly felt like it as we slowly fought our way across the lake back to Panajachel. The crossing, which under favorable conditions, could be achieved in about half an hour, took nearly twice that long as we were continually buffeted, the thin fiberglass boat shuddering (along with us) at every wave. When we finally made it to the Panajachel dock, somewhat shaken but still intact, we were met by a van for the long drive back to Antigua and then to Guatemala City. On the way, we stopped at the small town of Solola where a large and bustling market was in full sway. This was a most interesting experience as this clearly was not a market for tourists, but for residents from throughout the area. Native costumes abounded, and women carrying amazingly large bundles on their heads were everywhere. And, for one of the few times in my life, I, at 5'5'', felt relatively tall. Back to the van, our drive continued back to Antigua where we left our travel mates, Nita and Larry at the Hotel Aurora. We then continued with Gary to the Guatemala City airport where we boarded our early evening flight to Flores. We were met there by another ViaVenture employee for a short drive to the third hotel of our trip, Casona del Lago. Enough energy remained for a quick supper at the hotel and then to rest for the following day at Tikal.
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.