Atun Poza and the Ucayali River
Our last full day onboard Delfin II began much like yesterday ended, with a gorgeous fiery sky. Early morning cool temperatures were great for wildlife with a skiff ride and a walk in the flood forest near the village of Atun Poza. Red-bellied Macaws were abundant, some Squirrel Monkeys were right in front of the ship, and river dolphins were ubiquitous.
In the forest, we made our way past many large trees in the fig family, past some thick patches of beautiful Heliconia flowers, to a massive Ceiba tree. This is one of the biggest emergent trees, sticking high above the canopy and looming above all others. The base of the tree was a wide set of buttress roots, jutting out in every direction. Numerous butterflies were enjoyed, including one commonly known as “80” due to its pattern.
As the morning progressed, the skies darkened and we were treated to our first tropical downpour of the trip. While many fled to the comforts of Delfin II, other stayed out, enjoyed the deluge. It is a rain forest, and some chose to enjoy it!
In the afternoon we continued farther downriver on the Ucayali, and divided for our excursions. Some of us returned to the skiffs to search for wildlife. One exciting event involved some villagers with a sloth they had found. Our guides convinced them to release it, and we were involved with returning it to the wild, after some up close examination. Others of us opted for the more relaxing trip. After heading to a beach, we coated ourselves in therapeutic mud that is found in certain spots, and dried in the sun. Then we jumped in the center of the river and drifted with the current enjoying the pleasant temperatures of the water. As we readied for our final cocktail hour, another spectacular thunderstorm rolled it. Darkness descended and we traveled farther down towards Iquitos and more adventures tomorrow morning.
