Blogs :: Tikal
If you are seriously into ruins, I would highly suggest this place. If you are a fair weather type of ruin-goer, I would suggest doing something a little more mellow like Uxmal or even the Aztec ruins in Mexico City. Tikal however will not disappoint at all if you are willing to brave the jungle. An amazing view and many many very cool buildings await those that brave the 14km walk to see them all. Do however remember the following:
- Bring Deet flavored insect repellent. 92 percent of the bugs are likely immune to it and you will get eaten alive anyway, but that eight percent of bugs you scare away may make the difference between Malaria or no Malaria.
- Beware of the armed bandits that roam around to relieve you of your money. They may or may not be security guards or police.
- Choke out the monkey that just stole your camera only if you have had your rabies vaccination.
- Remember your malaria pills. Hopefully you won't hallucinate from being dehydrated and on Melfloquine. (remember the 14 km hike?)
- It is humid and hot. Bring your own water. Stream water is not healthy to drink.
- Bring lots of your friends and pay the collective price of 40 bucks for a tour.
- DO NOT forget your camera
Trust me you will not be disappointed by Tikal in the least. I have seen more ruins in the past month than I ever wanted to in my life but this turned out to be a highlight. The view from Templo IV is nothing short of breathtaking. You have an unrestricted view of miles upon miles of rain-forested mountains and the other temples that poke their heads from the canopy. Supposedly you can bribe a guard and sleep atop the temple if you are really good, but not being that much of an outdoors type I didn't try. The place in constantly under reconstruction so I am sure it will be different for you than it was for me, but hopefully it will only be that much more majestic. Check out the pictures even though they really don't do it justice.
Guatemala, Tikal, ruins
Posted By:
Jason
10/30/2008