Marañon River
Our journey in the upper Amazon basin of Peru began today exploring the Marañon River, one of the two rivers that form the mighty Amazon. We awoke with the sun and an early morning skiff ride in search of wildlife. And what an incredible introduction it was! Birds were abundant with many wading birds lining the shore and huge numbers of terns feeding in the shallows. Soon joining the mix were a group of pink river dolphins. Three animals were hunting together and made lunges after fish. On the return trip a few sloths were spotted, as well as monkeys. What an incredible start!
After breakfast we went for our first walk in the rain forest. Walking in a seasonally flooded forest that has only recently dried up made for some excellent exploration. Massive Ceiba and Ficus trees lined the walk, while many flowering vines, including the brilliant “monkey brush,” added splashes of color to the scene. We learned about the many medicinal uses of various plants, enjoyed more birds, and watched a massive group of squirrel monkeys leaping through the trees.
In the afternoon, we again set off in the skiffs to explore some side rivers off the Marañon, and birds and dolphins were the themes of this trip. Both gray and pink river dolphins were our constant companions, many times circling the skiffs as they were feeding. The sounds of them breathing were our background soundtrack. Our brains were overloaded with the many different birds seen. So many colors, including brilliant blues, reds, greens, and yellows. The sounds, as well, added to the experience with the constant chattering of parakeets, the haunting call of the tinamou, and the obnoxious shout of the Great Kiskadee.
Too soon, the sun was setting and we returned to the comforts of the Delfin II. Fine drinks, a glorious meal, and the first tones of “The Teenagers” brought a wonderful end to our first day here in the Amazon of Peru.
