Jacaranda Journey
Aerial view (photo: National Geographic)
Demonstration to protect Yasuni (in front of the Presidential Palace)
Protesting oil exploitation in the pristine Yasuni National Park
Zebra striped church
Pool in the shape of a palm tree (photo from HM website)
Horseback riding along the river and forest
Clowning around in jungle costumes (from left: Linda, Chuck, Maureen, Buzz, Vicki)
Our first river run down Class 3 rapids
Morpho Pupae
Having giant blue morphos flitting around you is a magical sight!
One of thousands of artful species
Buildings blend in (middle of photo)
Guest cabins hign on a bluff, overlooking the Upper Napo River
Nationally recognized social entrepreneur, founder of Yachana EcoLodge and Foundation
Beetle grubs (mayones) known as Jungle Bacon
We couldn't bring ourselves to eat them raw and wiggling, but pan-fried they were delicious - just like bacon (they're all fat)
For AmaZOOnico
Held by our guide who was unafraid of the poison
Victim of illegal animal trafficking
Largest rodent
Our guide was showing us how native nomadic hunters use the tree for shelter and hunting
Banana bandage for an injured hand
Three generations
Note the TV, powered with a small solar panel the government has given all households in the Amazon
Kichwa mother and daughter preparing the Amazon drink from yuca
Usually only flakes are found - but they add up!
Ecuador produces the finest raw chocolate - no wonder there are so many Swiss and Belgians in the country
Still in the pod before they are dried and ground
Leaving Yachana for a 2 hour ride downriver to the town of Coca, jumping off point for the Lower Napo River lodges
