DRIFT Travel Magazine Spring 2024

Guatemala and Belize have a long
history of border disputes. By all
accounts, the relationship between
the two countries is strained. We
realized while visiting just how
important it is to be aware of the
political unrest in the region prior to
traveling, to be culturally sensitive,
respectful, and understanding of
any possible delays. As tourism
is one of the main drivers of the
economy in the region, both sides
wholeheartedly agree that despite
the conflict, keeping tourism safe and
accessible is a top priority.
DRIFT TRAVEL
41
I THOUGHT THE
MOST IMPRESSIVE
MAYA SITE WAS
CHICHENITZA, THAT
IS OF COURSE, UN-
TIL I STEPPED FOOT
IN FRONT OF THE
ANCIENT WONDERS
OF TIKAL
Parking just short of the
demilitarization-zone, we
disembarked our bus and walked
between several gates towards the
customs office. Lucky for us, getting
up early paid off with virtually no line
at the border. The entire process
to pay our customs fees took only
about 15 minutes, and at the end
our passports were rewarded with
new stamps. Piling into another small
bus, we traveled about two hours to
the entrance of Tikal. I could feel the
thick jungle air and hear the tropical
birds chime in as we approached.
This by far felt worlds away from
coastal Belize.
Setting out by foot down a wide
path through giant palms and
vine-covered strangler-figs, I only
stopped momentarily to watch a
group of spider monkeys swing
from tree to tree. I was already
amazed by the variety of wildlife in
Tikal’s lush rainforest. The UNESCO
World Heritage Site is home to
over 100 species of mammals,
including over 60 species of bats.
From pumas, ocelots, and jaguars,
to howler monkeys, toucans and
colorful butterflies. Birdwatchers
are delighted by the over 330 avian
species that inhabit the area.
Then as if out of nowhere, I took a
turn through the forest to find the
first enormous Maya temple on our
path. Towering above the trees and
bordered with ornate carvings, I
was stunned by how complex and
complete the architecture appeared