Hola

We´ve had wildlife overload these past two weeks and have absolutely loved it. Hard to really do it all justice through words, but we´ll give it a go!

Since we last wrote, wé headed off to Cuyabeno Reserve in Western Equador, 40km from the Columbian border. We enjoyed five days (four nights) in the Jungle staying in wooden huts. The Lodge had no electricity so it was lovely at night enjoying our scrumptious meals by candlelight. We met a great couple of Danes and two American guys and have since caught up with them back in Quito.

The reserve forms part of the Amazon Rainforest and it was amazing to see monkeys, caimans (crocodiles), dolphins, piranahs, tarantulas and all number of frogs and other such creepy crawlies! We spent time walking in the rainforest and learning about all the medicinal purposes for the plants and animals. We also visited a local community and a Sharman (witch doctor). Spent loads of time in our wooded canoe cruising up and down the river and enjoyed the sunset every night in a fantastic black lagoon. We were able to swim off the boat each time, careful to avoid the caimans and piranahs!

After a day back in Quito, we headed off to the Galapagos Islands. Yes, they do live up to everything that is written about them! The wildlife is jaw droppingly tame and to be able to swim with sea lions and giant sea turtles was unique. We visited nine islands in total and were constantly amazed by the unique species of animals on each island. To be able to witness such things as albatross mating rituals within a few metres away and sea lions feeding their young was something we will never forget. The sheer number of animals and the close proximity to them meant we did not miss the lack of zoom on our camera (which unfortunately we did miss in the Jungle). Animals we saw included blue footed boobies, albatross, frigate (all birds), sea lions (thousands of them), sea turtles, giant tortoises, iguanas (lizards), penguins, sting rays, all number of fish and flamingos. We snorkelled everyday and Mal is possibly beginning to get a little braver in the water!

The boat left a lot to be desired, very basic and cramped conditions and the best thing we did was request a top cabin (of which there was only three!). But the naturalist guide, chef and crew were great and it did not detract from the experience. Met a great Dutch couple (who had got engaged on their five month South American trip!) and a Kiwi and her Slovakian friend, but some of the other passengers were slightly odd!

Back in Quito for a day of rest and laundry before heading to Lima (flying!) tomorrow morning. Will look into going to a World Cup Qualifier tomorrow (Peru v Ecuador - Go Equador!) when we arrive and if we can get tickets we´ll stay for a night, otherwise we´ll high tale it on a bus south to Huacachina (oasis amongst the desert aparently!).

Love to all and please continue to send emails, we love to hear your news. Hope to have photographs on the blog soon....but this computer isn´t reading them at the moment!

Mal and Nat