In Brazil the Amazon River is fed by two major tributaries. The northern tributary is the Rio Negro and the southern tributary is the Rio Solimoes. Christi and I are chugging gently down the Rio Solimoes aboard the MV Monte Sinai II and it is quite idyllic. Even dinner in Monte's restaurant last night was surprisingly pleasant. It wasn't fine dining by any stretch of the imagination, but it was … [Read more...]
Amazonia, Brazil, Day 141
By
Christi and I continue our lazy progress down the Rio Solimoes this morning. The scenery in Amazonia is easy on the eye, not requiring too much attention. We look up occasionally from our books and scan the wide river and the river banks to see the locals fishing, or laundering their clothes, or bathing. Life in hammock class (on deck 2) is even more relaxed. These people (admittedly pretty … [Read more...]
Meeting of the Waters, Day 142
By
The Meeting of the Waters is the point where the Rio Negro and Rio Solimoes meet. The rivers collide just to the west of Manaus, an easy bus ride away. Christi and I had planned an early start, but yet again the weather refuses to cooperate. Rain lashes the hostel, so we catch up with some reading, hoping the weather will improve. Checkout is midday and although the skies remain black as … [Read more...]
Manaus (Brazil) to Santa Elena de Uairen (Venezuela), Day 143
By
The Eucatur bus from Manaus to Boa Vista leaves on time, but the experience is so different from the luxury Cruz del Sur buses Christi and I experienced in Argentina and Peru. The only seats available tonight are semi-cama (we cried real tears when we purchased them). No food is served and there is no entertainment available. The bus stops for dinner 2 hours out of Manaus. It's unclear where … [Read more...]
Canaima National Park, Day 144
By
Two other hikers (Canadians Dan and Keith) will accompany Christi and I on the 6-day trek to the top of Roraima (located in Canaima National Park in south-east Venezuela). We meet them at the offices of New Frontiers Adventures in Santa Elena at 10 am. We learn that Dan and Keith organize and participate in academic research expeditions to the Arctic for a living. Hiking Roraima would … [Read more...]
Follow Us!