The Amazon is like a different world, immense and fertile with infinite flora and fauna. The lungs of Peru and of the world.
After sunrise and breakfast this morning, we embarked on the skiffs to explore the abundant wildlife at Nauta Creek. With the help of our keen, eagle-eyed naturalists who are familiar with the area, we observed and photographed several species of birds, sloths, and well-camouflaged bats.
It is common to see small human communities along the riverbanks. These families make their living by working the fertile soil. The abundant rainwater helps them grow crops for their own use and for commerce. We spotted men in small canoes catching fish along the river’s edge.
Back on board, one of the naturalists gave a presentation on the fruits of the Amazon, with a fancy market style display included.
After a delicious Peruvian lunch, we had some time to rest before continuing with the afternoon’s program. This time, we planned to explore the land.
The skiffs dropped us off at Casual Forest, where we were welcomed by members of the small community. They kindly shared with us about their passion for and care of their homeland. We encountered a highly venomous red frog, a giant and hairy tarantula, a sloth, and a boa constrictor, all of which are normally well hidden. The people living here know where and how to find them.
To thank the people for their kindness and to support their economy, we bought some of their beautiful, well-made handcrafts.
Today, we thank Mother Nature for letting us into her heart of immense riches and mysteries.
