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