I have recently visited the Amazon Jungle and experienced first hand the majesty of the worlds’ most vast rain forest. As you depart from the big bustling city of Manaus into the dense forest, you are embraced by the magical sounds, smells and sights you encounter on the way to your lodge. Arriving at any one of the fabulous lodges in the Amazon, you will be welcomed with a regional drink and given a tour of the grounds. Depending on your taste, your accommodation could consist of an open air hammock or a fully equipped bedroom. My favorite was relaxing in a hammock outside my room. It was quite easy to nod off to the sounds of the soft rain and wake in the morning to the howling monkeys and various species of wild birds. Most lodges offer a combination of similar activities, to include jungle trekking, piranha fishing, alligator spotting, visits to local villages to meet the natives, canoeing, overnight camping in the jungle and jungle survival techniques. Some also include Meeting of the Waters, or you can take a day trip from Manaus. Some lodges, do offer various “extras”, if you are fortunate enough to encounter, such as, during my trip to one lodge, I was able to swim with and feed the pink dolphins, it was exhilarating. At another lodge, I discovered the mystical “Fountain of Youth”. What will be your discovery in the Amazon?
