Adventurer Steve Backshall takes Shaun Keaveny on a jungle adventure in Suriname, discussing the diverse fauna, the challenges of the jungle, reptile behavior, and the delights and dangers of the Amazon rainforest. They also share their experiences at Hotel Botte and tease upcoming South American adventures.
Suriname's jungles offer a rare chance to experience a pristine environment where animals have not learned to fear humans, allowing for an immersive and authentic exploration.
Visiting the jungle in Suriname provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from modern life and connect with the simplicity and purity of nature, creating a profound and exhilarating adventure.
Deep dives
The allure of the untouched jungle of Suriname
Suriname is a destination that offers the opportunity to experience the natural world at its most pristine. The jungles in this region are largely untouched by human presence, allowing for a sense of exploration and discovery. The remote areas of Suriname provide a rare chance to be in an environment where animals have not learned to fear humans. The jungle in Suriname is teeming with wildlife, including jaguars, harpy eagles, and giant anacondas. It is a place where one can truly feel alive and embrace the wonders of the natural world.
Exploring the biodiversity and sounds of the jungle
Suriname's jungles offer a rich diversity of life, from insects to amphibians to mammals. The jungle is alive with the sounds of frogs, cicadas, and howler monkeys, creating a symphony of nature. The sights and sounds can be both enchanting and deafening, immersing visitors in the vibrant ecosystem. It is a place where one can experience the thrill of encountering animals like jaguars, giant anacondas, and colorful birds up close.
Challenges and hazards of the jungle
While the jungle in Suriname has its share of hazards, such as venomous snakes and spiders, predators like jaguars, and the possibility of encountering piranhas, these risks are relatively low compared to Hollywood portrayals. Most of the dangers are smaller inconveniences like leeches and ticks, rather than life-threatening encounters. Being aware of one's surroundings and avoiding panic can greatly mitigate the risks in the jungle.
The unique experience and sense of adventure
Visiting the jungle in Suriname offers a unique and exhilarating adventure. It is a place where one can disconnect from the complexities of modern life and find a sense of simplicity and purity. Sleeping in hammocks high above the forest floor, gazing at the stars, and waking up to the sounds of nature can create a profound connection with the environment. The jungle in Suriname provides an extraordinary opportunity to witness the wonders of the natural world and experience a true sense of exploration.
Steve boldly tries to take Shaun exploring barefoot in amazing jungle with anacondas, jaguars and hitherto undiscovered insects. Steve's had some of the greatest experiences of his life there and thinks nature is the best holiday from modern life. Will Shaun, a self-described beta male, join Steve in sleeping up a tree with harpy eagles? Resident geographer, historian and comedian Iszi Lawrence is the voice of reason, as Shaun finds himself strangely tempted.
Your Place Or Mine is the travel series that isn’t going anywhere. Join Shaun as his guests try to convince him that it’s worth getting up off the sofa and seeing the world, giving us a personal guide to their favourite place on the planet.
Producers: Beth O'Dea and Sarah Goodman
Your Place or Mine is a BBC Audio production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.
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