As we neared the middle of the city, the massive Temple of the Great Jaguar looms out of the top of the trees. This impressive structure was built as the burial monument to one of Tikal’s greatest rulers; Lord Chocolate. Immediately across from this gigantic pyramid is the Temple of the Masks, the burial monument of Lord Chocolate’s queen, Lady Twelve Macaw. Wooden steps lead up and around the back of the Temple of the Mask to a fantastic view of the central part of Tikal.
The famous main plaza at Tikal (Kate Boyd)
After a short break to explore some of the temples on our own, we were led to what is thought to be the tallest structure erected by the Maya, the enormous Temple IV. Measuring over 211 feet high, the wooden stairs to the top can seem never-ending at times, but stick with it! The view from the top is extraordinary, and on a clear day you can see for twenty miles in any direction.
The breathtaking view from the top of Temple IV at Tikal (Kate Boyd)
Make sure to bring lots of water and consider bringing some snacks, as it can be a very long day of hiking the trails of Tikal and climbing on the temples and ruins. Lunch is served at the end of the tour, and sizzling hot chicken fajitas were a fantastic way to end the afternoon.
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.
