Our guides
Roots of a giant Kapok tree, a member of the Ceiba family
The Kapok tree is one of the tallest trees of in the forest. It is a sacred tree for the Achuar--referred to as the shaman of the forest, it is never cut. It is believed that the arutam, or spirit of the forest, inhabits the Kapok tree. The tree is not good for wood--it is hollow inside and has no rings.
Our guide, Tinchu, led the way, occasionally using a machete to clear the way. I found this slightly surprising because in my mind I imagined the indigenous would have more respect for the plantlife--and find a way around it without harming it. As we walked through the forest in our black rubber boots I tried not to crush the plants along the trail. With so much life everywhere, it would be impossible not to cause some harm, but I was trying to minimize my impact. I was thankful for the boots which kept my feet dry as my feet squished down into muddy spots and sank into puddles that suctioned my feet as I tried to pull them out to continue walking.
Mushrooms
Illuminated leaves
Cocoon
Stinging nettle
Tall tree
Ferns
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