Cemetery at Chichicastenango

A relaxed start at 8.30. After a couple of hours driving up and over a mountain range of z bends we reached Chichicastenango. We were told to keep our rucksacks on our front as a precaution as it was very busy and the space between the market stalls meant we were very squashed among the mass of buyers and people rushing by carrying heavy loads of stuff. The market had plenty local clothing, tourist stuff, food, plastic baskets, religious talismans etc. I loved the costumes but couldn’t be bothered to buy anything.

We left the market, walking steeply downhill to see the pets, turkeys and tiny chickens for sale, and up the other side to the colourful cemetery. We saw some shamen conducting ceremonies, had a wander round then headed back to the market via the pigs and calves. Apparently a Turkey costs $60.

I visited a couple of churches to see the Easter preparations and we then went with the others for lunch in a nice place with an open courtyard where mackaws and parrots were flying around and perching.

The journey to Guatemala City took 4 hours and then the bus did a city tour - there was no time to get off.

We had dinner in the hotel with Lindsey, Jo, Linda and Helen. It was very peaceful and they were good company.

We have a link to complete a complicated on-line form for the Honduras border. Covid passes and passport pages must be attached. We are leaving at 6.30am so I doubt I’ll get mine done.