The days at Sacha consist of a morning activity followed by a four hour free period at the Lodge and then a late afternoon activity. There are also optional evening activities. During our stay, we were assigned a naturalist and a native guide who ate meals with us and led us on various hikes and canoe rides. Our guides, David and Poncho were excellent. Their knowledge is extensive and I am still amazed at their ability to spot wildlife in the jungle.
This morning, we took a canoe ride and short hike to a platform constructed 42 meters up a tall tree for bird watching. The highlight of the morning was being able to view a family of Howler Monkeys with one baby resting high up in the canopy. Numerous birds were spotted with the help of our guides.
After returning to the lodge for lunch, we had the chance to read, lounge in the sun or swim in the lake. The black water is actually very refreshing and supposed to be good for your skin. Fishing poles were brought out and everyone had the opportunity to fish for piranha. As soon as the bait (raw chicken) touched the water, a swarm of the fish devoured it. Don't worry---they don't bother you when you go swimming!
In the late afternoon, we took a hike into the jungle and were able to spot numerous birds and exotic insects. The plant life is amazing, such as the Walking Palm which has the ability of move up to 20cm a year to reach better sunlight. Poncho showed us many plants which have been used by the indigenous people for constructing rope, medicines or for food.
In the evening, the kids went on another hike with flashlights in hand, looking for frogs, spiders and other insects. Highlights included tarantulas, poisonous tree frogs and Scorpion Spiders. The kids returned with great pictures and even better stories!
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
1 day ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
1 day ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
2 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.
Anne Petty
3 days ago
Follow up was effective any questions were answered in a timely manner