Motorcycle Explorer Nov 2015 Issue 8 | Page 41

Early the next morning we went out for a hike with our local guide. We crossed the river again but took a different path. This time, we took a path uphill where there were numerous pretty flowers and other vegetation. Places like the “Tres panelas o tablas de la ley o de Moisés” and the “Pozo Cuadrado” were breathtaking, but “ La Escalera,” “El Buda,” and “Salto del Aguila” made the place unforgettable. The unique location of Salto del Aquila is in the shape of an eagle and the beautiful colors blend into the scenery. Here we made a group photo with the Colombian flag. As has happened so many times before, I felt my deep roots within this country. We returned at around lunchtime and took a rest in a hammock. Later that afternoon, our guide came back with his 4x4 and the whole team was complete again. After this arrival, we went for a swim and to relax at the pool known as “Piscina turistica” with Hendrik. As pleasant as the afternoon was, our group couldn’t stay together. Some of the members had to return by flight. We went with them to the nearby town of La Macarena. We drove to a farm and used the owner’s boat to cross the river Guayabero. The town of La Macarena is under government control and is well protected. Army boats patrol the river, keeping a watchful eye out for illegal activity, and there is an army base with helicopters and planes close by.