Rivers and Bridges

We travelled through miles of potholed jungle roads, riddled with unmarked tumulos (speed bumps), through many indigenous communities where the people were very friendly. At Sayaxche we crossed a river on an unusual ferry. Powered and steered by two 75 HP Yamaha outboards on turntables fitted to one side, each with a palm leaf roof - a bit like gunners on a battleship. Reedham ferry Guatamalan style and only costing 50p!

We witnessed first hand the swathes of jungle cut down to be replaced with palms to produce oil and biofuels. Devestating for the wildlife. The warm ashpalt is good for drying corn and peanuts.

At Semuc Champey the river Cahabon disappears under a 300 metre long natural limestone bridge. On the bridge is a series of stepped turquoise pools, great for swimming. (Steph...remember looking at this?!!!).

It's not easy to get to as the dirt 'road' is steep and rocky in places. We stood in the back of a 4x4 pickup.

At Coban, Phil had the best shoe shine so far. The shoeshiner did a thorough job, removing the laces for better access and all for 50p, including a tip!