Best view?
.
.
From the top of Temple IV at the Mayan ruins of Tikal. A sea of dense green rain forest as far as the eye can see, pierced only by the peaks of Tikal’s other pyramids.
Favourite dish?
Spinach-laced corn tamales at a coffee farm outside La Antigua. It was delicious!
.
.
Best night’s accommodation?
La Antigua’s colonial mansion of El Pensativo had great views and with custom furniture and antiques dotted around, it provides quite a homely feel without losing that Guatemalan charm.
.
.
Best activity/excursion?
Sun-washed boat ride on the sparkling blue Lake Atitlan. The deep azure of the lake’s waters contrasted with cloud crowned volcanoes standing guard, shadows creeping across their slopes, and mountain villages carved out of the lake’s western cliffs gleaming in the distance.
Favourite moments?
Talking politics with an indigenous artisan in Panajachel, who explained why the Corn Party was likely to lose to the Jacket Party in the coming elections in Sololá. A group minute of silence for the victims of a recent volcanic eruption of Volcán El Fuego and the gentle singing of children emanating from the convent at La Merced church in La Antigua.
Any tips for travellers?
Wake up early to best experience the treasure of Guatemala’s nature and ancient cities. Travel with Wild Frontiers to have an experience that gets below the surface and into the heart of this beautiful country. Don’t take pictures of the indigenous population with out permission and don’t insist, respect for their privacy is the first rule of Guatemala travel.
Any regrets?
Not enough time to explore deeper into the countryside on a good hike. Will just have to return, I guess!
