What a change to the high Andean mountains we have been in for so many weeks - we are currently in Rurrenebaque for a couple of days in the rain forest portion of Bolivia. Not unusual for this time of year, the weather is overcast, and when travelling at some speed on the rivers, it can get quite cold. We travelled to Rurrenebaque over three days predominantly on the river, with two overnight stops camping on the river banks. The trip was mainly outside of any conservation area, but on the last day we travelled through the Madidi National Park. Along much of the river outside of the park, gold panning continues, although we are told at a reduced level to about fifty years ago during a major gold rush. The trip also included a couple of walks into the forest, both night and day. Spectacular trees and plants, with very unusual growth forms. On one walk we encountered a large herd of wild pig that were very inquisitive, and on the river we saw a single capybara, (largest rodent in the world), dive into the river next to the boat. There are many birds, but very difficult to see clearly in the thick forest. We have seen many macaws at a distance, at least one flock of over 40 birds. As the birds turn in the sunlight, we caught sight of their brightly coloured plumage.Wednesday, June 25, 2008
La Paz to Rurrenebaque
What a change to the high Andean mountains we have been in for so many weeks - we are currently in Rurrenebaque for a couple of days in the rain forest portion of Bolivia. Not unusual for this time of year, the weather is overcast, and when travelling at some speed on the rivers, it can get quite cold. We travelled to Rurrenebaque over three days predominantly on the river, with two overnight stops camping on the river banks. The trip was mainly outside of any conservation area, but on the last day we travelled through the Madidi National Park. Along much of the river outside of the park, gold panning continues, although we are told at a reduced level to about fifty years ago during a major gold rush. The trip also included a couple of walks into the forest, both night and day. Spectacular trees and plants, with very unusual growth forms. On one walk we encountered a large herd of wild pig that were very inquisitive, and on the river we saw a single capybara, (largest rodent in the world), dive into the river next to the boat. There are many birds, but very difficult to see clearly in the thick forest. We have seen many macaws at a distance, at least one flock of over 40 birds. As the birds turn in the sunlight, we caught sight of their brightly coloured plumage.