Rainforest Treasures at Selva Bananito

The second day of the trip started bright and early when I was picked up for my two-day raft trip along the famous Pacuare River. The river would live up to all of my expectations - and more! I was blessed by being able to spend this time with a great group of friendly and fun people from several different places including California, Florida, El Salvador, and Cuba. My time on the Pacuare was wonderful, and I was amazed at the ability of the river guides to produce such great meals in the middle of the jungle. Many thanks to Rafael, Hector, Chino, Johnny, and all of my rafting friends for helping me have the time of my life during our river trip - I'll definitely be back!

It was on to Selva Bananito Lodge after we took out on day two of the whitewater trip. I was transferred to Bananito Town, where my friend Danilo was waiting to take me the remaining 11 kilometers to the lodge. The trip to the lodge was an adventure in itself over a potholed road and through a couple of small streams (which I've heard can be large streams at times!), but we arrived safe and sound at Selva Bananito within about 45 minutes. There I met Victor, my guide for the next three days, who showed me to my lovely room, complete with breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest from my own personal hammock - does it get any better? The lodge could be described as rustic due to its lack of electricity, but I found it to be luxurious and perfect - the beautiful solar-heated showers are a great touch!