We had a busy day today in the Amazon. It started by roosters crowing very loudly way too early. Not all of the kids heard it, but the leaders sure did. After breakfast, we put on our wellies and headed to the boats to take us to a primary rain forest where we went on an eco-hike. We split into two groups and went off to explore the rain forest with our two local guides, David and Dario. They showed us the different types of plants that are native to this area and what they were used for. For example that balsam wood was used for boats going down stream and a much harder wood for going upstream. There were also different plants that are used for medicine. We learned about how the local tribes were able to find their way through the jungle by breaking branches - somewhat in a Hansel and Gretel style, and the communication style of drumming on trees.
While on our trek through the forest, we got to use a terabita, which a cage-like contraption to transport a person from one side of a ravine to the other, much like zip-lining. We also went across a suspension bridge across another ravine.
Once our walk was completed, it was back to the boats to head to a beach where we boarded balsam rafts to head back to our hotel for lunch. Many of us jumped in the water and swam by the rafts for a bit, although the water was quite cold - at least for our standards. But everyone had a good time.
After lunch we headed to a nearby village by boat where we were greeted by the locals and learned what their daily life was like. We were able to try chicha, which is a drink made from yucca. Normally, when making this drink, you would chew the yucca and then spit it back into the drink. We did not do it. We also tried yucca and green plantains and for the creme de la creme - we tried palm larvae...Yummy???!!! Then there was the blow darts. We learned how and why they use them and then got to practice
on a wood monkey - we have some blowgun marksmen in the group!!
We also learned about how the locals make pottery from natural clay and painted with pigments made from minerals found locally. The whole process to make a small bowl takes about 4-5 days. Pretty impressive.
Back the lodge for the evening, packing things up to continue our journey tomorrow to the Hot Springs.
While on our trek through the forest, we got to use a terabita, which a cage-like contraption to transport a person from one side of a ravine to the other, much like zip-lining. We also went across a suspension bridge across another ravine. 
We also learned about how the locals make pottery from natural clay and painted with pigments made from minerals found locally. The whole process to make a small bowl takes about 4-5 days. Pretty impressive.
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