Just a Walk in the Jungle: Termites and Jackass Bitters
Helmets in hand, we tromped single-file on a trail to Actun Tunichil Muknal, a spectacular series of caves in Western Belize containing calcified human remains and ceremonial vessels left by Mayan shamans most active between 700 and 900 A.D. Getting to the entrance of the caves required a beautiful morning jungle hike, and we were lead by Carlos Panti, a local guide who knows the area, its plants and animals like the back of his hand. In his drill-sergeant-meets-bushman manner, our rainforest superman informed us that there had been recent sightings of a petite but deadly poisonous viper on this very path and to watch where we were stepping. Barefoot, Carlos lead our small, intrepid group across land and through water, pointing out notable plant and animal life, and the occasional warning (watch the ants!), neatening the trail with his machete along the way. We followed like eager apostles behind him, excited but uncertain about where he was taking us. The entire day turned out to be one of the most exhilarating and wondrous times I can remember. But in addition to the hiking, swimming and spelunking through the sacred caves, Carlos shared with us some unforgettable tasting experiences.
