A couple of old ruins...

... Which was rather how we felt on January 31st after another long minibus ride heading north - we seem to get the oldest buses with the fastest drivers. Two rattly hours back to Coban where brakes needed checking, then about 3 hours downhill (with brakes) eventually reaching the island town of Flores just before sunset. Great roof terrace makes up for the very basic room. Amazing dawn chorus.

We've come all the way up here for the Mayan ruins and spent the first afternoon at Yaxhe, more difficult to get at and less exposed but magical in the jungle. Next day on the 4:30am bus to huge and famous Tikal. Misty and atmospheric until the sun appeared about 10am, then sunshine to explore until about 2pm when we were "ruined" and treated ourselves to an all-day Guatemalan breakfast. Brilliant day!

Headed south retracing our route over the numerous Guatemalan speed humps as far as Coban which is a major centre with very little to attract tourists so very interesting. Very fertile up here in the mountains so lots of fresh fruit and veg. Very tasty dinner and nice hotel.

They say it rains 13 months of the year in Coban but the sun shone on us. Caught 30p bus ride to Chamelco where we strolled around the market (wonderful food colours) and then out into the countryside which was well cultivated. Coffee and cake then back to Coban where Chris had the best haircut ever. Great day!