Our only full day in the jungle was one filled with a
ton of wildlife and culture. The day got off to an early start, as we headed
out into the Amazon rain forest immediately after breakfast. We took
traditional canoes across the Arajuno River, and began our long walk through
the jungle. The best part of the walk was learning firsthand how local people
build traps to catch animals for their food. The guide even taught us how to
make one ourselves. After our walk, we had lunch, played around in the pool,
and got ready to go to the nearby village to learn how to make chicha. We got
to watch a step by step process of how chicha is made, and we learned about its
importance to people throughout the Amazon. After our chicha experience, we went
to the local school, and planted native trees in the yard. We even put name
tags on them, so when the trees grow up, people will know who planted them. We
then had a relaxing siesta and then a class discussion on tropical forests before
enjoying a fantastic dinner at the lodge. After dinner, we were given a special
surprise, as local girls demonstrated their native dance, it was another
amazing cultural experience in a day filled with them. We even got to join in
on the dances, and feel like we were part of their group. It was a perfect way
to end an incredible day.
by Andrew Spencer
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| Termite nest. |
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| Jim making Chicha from yuca root. |
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| Dr. Reid sampling Chicha. |
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| Students planting trees for reforestation project along Arajuno River. |
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| Evening cultural event. |
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