Semuc Champey

Two days ago we left Antigua in cloudy but sunny weather and drove for 5 hours in pouring rain to Coban. God, it was pouring. Accordingly, we were concerned about our trip yesterday. Especially since Coban is a terrible city where you don't need to stay. But, when angels travel....

In fine weather, we drove to Semuc Champey and the Grutas de Lanquin yesterday. A distance of about 70km. The first 50km were no problem, the last 20km were: Unpaved roads, steep and slippery, no chance without 4-wheel drive. It took us almost 2 hours for these 20km. We had a guide all to ourselves - that's always great. First we visited the Grutas de Lanquin, a sprawling cave system through which an underground river flows. The visit is not entirely safe, as all steps are weathered, steep, and slippery. That's why we stayed in the front part where we also saw bats. Afterwards, we went to Semuc Champey, a natural lime bridge. 6 natural pools with clear water have formed on it, where you can swim super. To get a view of these pools, you have to turn into a mountain goat *g* High steps, unpaved and sometimes very steep paths lead upwards. We made it - today I have a huge muscle ache in my thighs. At the end of the day, we splashed in the lime pool, it was great. All in all, a great and exciting day.

Today we drove to Rio Dulce and our little bungalow is right by the river, but more on that tomorrow or the day after.

However, we still need to make a correction: Gasoline is not expensive here, but very cheap. The advertised amount refers to 1 gallon, not 1 liter. So 1 liter of gasoline costs less than a dollar - good if you have a guide to ask.