26 October 2015 ~ Yanallpa Riparian Forest

Listening to:  Willie Nelson/Lucas Nelson ~ Just Breathe

Another Amazon adventure was strolling through the Yanallpa Riparian Forest. Riparian basically means the area between land and and a river or stream. They are significant because of their role in soil conservation, fauna and aquatic ecosystems.

The area can also be commonly referred to as a "gallery forest," because of its dense vegetation that creates a tunnel of leaves.

This tree has a unique trunk structure.

Vines to swing on or get tangled in.

This root structure is quite large and can be used for shelter if you are lost.

The itinerary stated: "As we explore this type of riparian vegetation, watch above for parrots, macaws, and fluffy monk saki monkeys." I did hear macaws, but all I saw was this ant. I guess I was hoping to run into more crazy creatures as highlighted on the Nature and Discovery channels, such as butterflies, frogs or toucan. Guess not in this forest (although someone in another group did see frogs, or so I was told).

Our local guide used his machete to cut into this tree trunk to see it bleed a white liquid. Shamans know how many of the natural healing properties will help someone. ojé -- for example -- is a tree whose bark produces a milky white latex that combats rheumatism, toothache and snake bite. It is also an effective blood purifier and heath tonic. Decoction of the leaves works against anemia and fever. 

Did I mention how HOT it was in the forest? The temperature was around 96 and what felt like 100% humidity. Luckily, when we got back to the boat, we were greeted with cold beers.

¡Salud!