We started our day very early in the morning exploring the Pucate River. This river is covered with thick vegetation where our naturalists spotted several species of Neotropical birds like, parrots, herons, flycatchers as well as some few birds of prey.
Later in the morning after breakfast we had a very peculiar but interesting visit. We went to see Carola, a shaman woman who let us know about her fascinating knowledge and wisdom of the rainforest. Carola described several medicinal plants and how to use them, answered several questions about her interesting upbringing and long term training. The icing of the cake was listening Carola singing a very spiritual song in her native tongue and giving her blessings to the group.
Once onboard, refreshed with a well-deserved shower we had after lunch a questions and answers session with the Delfin II naturalists.
In the early afternoon Just after lunch we visited the Amazon Natural Park. This private protected area is located in the outside boundaries of the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve. The late owner Mr. Roberto Rotondo, unfortunately passed away a couple of years ago. He managed so well its property that it was recognized by the Peruvian environmental authorities as a national private protected area as recently as in June 2011.
We started our activities in this area by boarding three catamarans. We crossed a lagoon by rowing peacefully. After a short ride we disembarked to go for a 2.4 miles hike. While walking in the forest we admired very big and famous trees like the rubber and chewing gum trees and some lianas, vines, some wild flowers and some amphibians as well. The trail leads to a very long suspension bridge which is approximately a quarter of a mile in length. From the bridge we had a thrilling view of the middle strata of the rainforest just below the upper canopy. At that height we could see the rainforest from a completely different perspective that allows us to imagine how creatures see the world from this height. Some guests opted for a shorter walk that was successful as well for we saw a large troop of squirrel monkeys and we had a rare sighting of the ornate hawk eagle (Spizaetus ornatus) as well. This large bird of prey, considered a rarity, has a wingspan of 42-50 inches. It was the first time ever I can see it in almost six years I have been coming to the Peruvian Upper Amazon. I handle to have a kind of distant picture with a long lens but considering the importance of this sighting I include a picture of it anyway even though it is not the best quality. After the walks we boarded once again the catamarans to come back to the skiffs that were waiting for us to take us home, the Delfin II.
Finally, late in the afternoon during cocktail hour, we had the whole crew lined up in the lounge for an official presentation. The Delfin II naturalists told our guests about their interesting lives and backgrounds as well. After dinner we had a night walk. The darkness of the night together with the beautiful sounds were our companions. Several critters were spotted including many insects and a small opossum.
A great full day concluded. It will stay in our visitors’ minds and hearts for it was filled with new experiences that will evoke memories for years to come.
