So far so good. We have had a great week during our expedition, and today was no exception. We had a full day exploring two remote locations: Atun Poza in the morning and the Pacaya River in the afternoon. Today we experienced firsthand the extraordinary biodiversity that inhabit the rainforests and the sudden climate changes typical of this ecosystem.
In Atun Poza we observed many bird species like flycatchers, hawks, green iguanas, and a couple of three-toed sloths. We observed a couple of monkey species as well, a small family of three Monk Saki monkeys and a solitary red howler monkey. Both species were not very visible for they were resting in the canopy inside the foliage. We worked hard maneuvering the skiffs and looking through binoculars until we had a cleaner view of the monkeys.
The unusual Monk Saki monkey is one of the most impressive and attractive looking ones found in the whole Amazon region. Saki monkeys look out of place. They have a very thick and long dark fur that makes them look bigger than they really are. This long fur is believed to be used as protection from insect bites.
In addition to the latter animal species sightings we had the thrill of having our breakfast outdoors onboard the skiffs! This experience is simply amazing. Covered with the rainforest we had our early meal served in the most fashionable way, white gloves included, with the green surroundings as companions.
At lunch time the kitchen galley showed us how to cook a local dish by the name “Juane” which is the most typical one in this areas of Peru. Later on during lunch we had the “Juanes” we learnt to prepare served as a side dish in our flavorsome lunch.
In the afternoon we had plenty of time to go far beyond the Pacaya River. A very strong tropical sun marked the beginning of our adventure. Little by little rain clouds covered the area and we had a constant heavy tropical shower during the rest of the outing. We cruised around and trough vast flooded plains filled with water hyacinths and other floating vegetation. The latter experience is by itself surreal for we felt like floating in a big green carpet. The skills and knowledge of our naturalists and drivers amazed all of our guests for at that point they did not know where they were, for we were immersed in a rainforest labyrinth. Late in the afternoon we had time to swim in the middle of a beautiful lake with the company of the sounds of forest and a heavy drizzling rain. The way back was a real adventure, the floating vegetation thicker than before. Strong winds and constant rain made our way back a memorable one for we all helped to cross marshes in a three skiff convoy.
Late in the evening, at around 1830, we finally arrived back at the Delfin II with the wonderful feeling that we spent a great and peculiar day in one of the most intriguing and fascinating ecosystems on Earth, the enigmatic Amazon. After a warm shower, a great dinner was the proper ending to share our impressions of this long but unforgettable day.
