Calakmul

We managed to do Calakmul yesterday. This is the first time we have done this on a tour and we learned what we need to tweak. This is our first overnight in a Pemex station. First time I have ever used one for a Caravan, and it presents unique challenges.  We need to use the other Pemex in Xpujil in Spring, as it is larger. This one was very picky about how we could park. We need to do a better job of informing customers that Pemex parking can be a bit inconvenient (we only do it where necessary) and the station sets the rules as to where we park, not us. A couple were not too happy about where we had to park them, but it actually was OK once we got set up in there. I am trying to find some better parking, but we also have to keep security in mind, so a large inviting empty lot on the side of the highway on the middle of nowhere, may not be the best option. Pemex stations are open 24 hours and active, and that means secure, despite a bit of noise. Its worth it, to enable us to visit Calakmul.

We talked to the other Pemex outside town last night. Believe it or not, their big concern was that we would not have wood campfire (In a Gas Station? Really. Apparently some Mexicans did that, hence their concern). We also made made the mistake of hiring a collectivo which did not have a permit to go into the site, so we had to change 1/2 way. We also have to ensure people make sandwiches to take with them as there is no food to be had in there. We did take a cooler of drinks which was a good idea, as people were pretty thirsty when we got back to the vehicle. A 1/2 hour earlier start from Chetumal would also be a good idea. Regardless, we managed to get a full 2 hours in there. Just enough time. When I visited last spring, it as a wet day even though it was the dry season. Yesterday it was nice & sunny. With the delays we just made it in time to visit a cave where 1000's of bats emerge at sunset. (and I mean within a 15 minute window- 15 minutes more in Calakmul and we would have missed it.) Quite a sight, never seen anything like it. Tough to take any pictures, as when I look at them it just looks like a big blur. I did get one picture of them up against the sky and a video. Thank you very much, Jim Thurman, for tipping me off about this. It was a special experience and I know those in the Spring (including yoruself), will enjoy it. I have told Kevin that you are very familiar with this area, so I am sure you will be a big asset.

One big issue is that after visiting so many archaelogical sites, people think its just another one, so it can take some convincing to get some people to go. Nobody regreted it.

Calakmul is tough for anyone with mobility issues as you have to walk about 1.5 km (Flat) in from the front gate. Especially in  the heat & humidity this time of year. Worth it? Absolutely. If you can do it,  it is a unique experience. No crowds, you climb pyramids and the site is pretty much as it was found except for vegetation clearing. Climbing a pyramid gives you view of others rising out of the jungle, and you can pretty throw a rock into Guatemala. Quite a contrast to Chichen Itza which has 5000 tourists a day and almost as many vendors. it is nice to take customers somewhere few people get to go. Just dont expect an ATM machine or swimming pool. The good thing is we have worked out the bugs for the Spring tour. For a first tour, things went well. We got all the contact numbers we need to get the correct collectivos and worked out the times involved. Its 60 km up a jungle road so takes some time. Chance of seeing all sorts of wildlife, including a jaguar.