On this last day of the year, we awoke eagerly anticipating our excursion to Tikal. Following breakfast, we were met by Noe, our guide for the next two days. During the hour-long drive, we were presented with much information about the ruins, and the lake Peten Itza area in general. While we had read a fair bit about the ruins if Tikal; naturally nothing can replace the actual experience of being there, and absorbing the sense of history and majesty of the place. This was the first cloudy day of our trip, and as we entered the Great Plaza, the skies opened. Taking shelter from the rain in that magnificent setting added to the sense of magic to the surroundings. Soon the rain abated and we made our way to Temple IV, the only temple that can be climbed. Fitted with a new wooden staircase, subtly hidden in the foliage adjacent to the temple, the climb was something of a challenge, but relatively easy and safe. At 212 feet, Temple IV is the tallest of Tikal's temples. From the top, the view over the canopy with several temples protruding from the carpet of green was spectacular. Back in Santa Elena, the location of our hotel, we changed out of our soggy clothes for an early New Year's Eve dinner. We had made a reservation at La Luna, reputedly one of the best restaurants in Flores. It did not disappoint, and since we were preparing for a 5:00 AM pick-up the following morning, for a change, we made this New Year's Eve an early night.
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.