Up the river without a paddle

Late start today which really suits the hungover people from the group. Up for breakfast, somehow stuffed everything into our shrinking bags and then onto the bus for a short drive from the insanely narrow streets of Cusco to the airport.

Boarding time was 1110 and takeoff at 1145. I think we took off at 1222. The tv showing France and Germany, brilliantly positioned directly after baggage checks, was getting a workout. Finally we hit the air on the way to the jungle. On landing we transferred to a bus, repacked what we needed into duffle bags, got back on the bus and headed to the river.

Onto a long motor boat with a seat on each side we got. Lunch was served immediately. A metal pot containing rice, chips, veggies and chicken nuggets. Yum. It was around 240 and we had a long trip upstream. On the way our guides were spotting all sorts of things. White caimans (like an alligator), howling monkeys, turtles, macaws and vultures.  

We arrived at our destination which is like a tropical village. Big cabins with big windows covered with mesh. There are no lights or power but candles do the job.

First activity was a presentation on the area followed by a night walk looking for spiders. We found some and a small snake. Back to the main cabin for a buffet of pork in spices that made it not taste like pork, pasta, salad, rice followed by cake. All of the weight lost on the trail is finding its way back.

We got back to our cabin, had the best and hottest shower so far, and tucked ourselves into our mozzie nets for a really good sleep. Something about the noise of the jungle helps to induce a good sleep.