Some 60% of Peru is home to the Amazon Rainforest and having been lucky enough to visit the jungle of Puerto Maldonado, in the South, I am really intrigued to see the hustle and bustle of Iquitos’ rickshaws and the wildlife that awaits me in the north.
Seeing the repeat of 'Last Chance to See' with Stephen Fry and Mark Cawardine, really highlighted quite how difficult it is to see the elusive and endangered Manatee in Brazil, as they did not manage to see these sea cows in the wild. In the indigenous language in Brazil Manatee means ‘Ghost of the Amazon’ which explains a lot. It was however wonderful to see the rescue centre and the release of Boto, the orphaned Manatee.
I shall have around a 1 in 10 chance, even in low water season (when I am travelling) so it is unlikely I shall be witnessing one in the wild but thankfully I shall be visiting the Manatee Rescue Centre after my voyage through the Pacaya Samiria national reserve. I shall however have the opportunity to view the wonderful pink river dolphins which can be seen in North Peru.
For those who missed this first time around, or second you can learn more about the quest for the Manatee on the BBC’s website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/lastchancetosee/sites/animals/manatees