The Orinoco DeltaThe Orinoco delta is a rarely visited paradise, flowing into the Atlantic in the form of endless creeks and channels. The entire delta is a protected Nature Reserve with indigenous indians living amid luxuriant mangrove forests that harbour endemic species of flora and fauna. The indigenous Warao are thought to have lived in the outer delta for 12000 years and their ancient culture has changed comparatively little in recent times. Their houses and interconnecting walkways are built on Moriche palm trunk stilts which are incredibly resistant to the water. The name Warao comes from War-aroa, 'people of the canoes', where their children are able to swim and paddle canoes almost as soon as they can walk. Exploring the delta and villages by motorised canoe is the best way to enjoy the exotic flora and a variety of birds along with dolphins and the rare manatee. In visiting the Warao Indians we get a privileged look into their way of life, as all our guides are Indian and help you understand how their culture survived in this remote tropical paradise. You can learn how their food is grown and cooked, (including huge edible worms hidden in Moriche palm trunks!) as well as how they have prepared medicines from indigenous plants for generations. THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE ORINOCO DELTAThe Orinoco basin is a remote place, though lodges are comfortable with all amenities. Below is an example of a 3 day / 2 night itinerary, though this could be made longer or shorter depending on your interests. Day 1. Pick up at airport/hotel, transfer by bus to San Jose de Buja port and then by boat and airboat to your camp. In the afternoon there is an excursion by canoe to Guina Morena to visit the Warao Indian settlement and onto Love Parrots Island for sunset over the delta. Day 2. Expeditions by boat and on foot through the creeks and jungle. Your guide will show you some of their survival techniques and walk you along the medicinal trail. There will then be time for a spot of piranha fishing and a night trip to look for caiman and night birds. Day 3. Before breakfast a short trip to observe the howler monkeys. After breakfast a nature walk spotting strange varieties of flora and fauna or alternatively relax and swim at camp. Following lunch you return by airboat and bus back to the airport.
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