A Jungle Trek

Note: Last Saturday night I had time to make a reply to Brian's comments and off we went to Banda Acheh again the next morning. We had gone to the interior of the highlands south of Banda Acheh. I was in a party comprising the head of the group Pak Teuku, geologist, Mr Rama and a number of helpers. I just came back this afternoon all the richer in some jungle bashing experience.
Apologies: Will be responding to all comments in the previous posting. Brian, I will respond with an email also. In the meantime a simple haiku to accompany the pics.

On the road again
Greetings from BANDA ACHEH
Some fishes to fry

Image:1 A scenic and placid lake greeted us before we ventured in. The nearer hills in the distance were where we were headed

Image:2 The geologist, working out the coordinates and programming his GPS before we set out.

Image:3 Some of the rough dirt tracks we had to move through

Image:4 Here was a narrow passage-way cut through the hills

Image:5 At some points Juna had to go down to guide Kiki at dangerous points

Image:6 Suddenly a river crossed our path. A 4WD could ford it during normal days but it apparently rained in the upper reaches earlier. The river was a bit swollen and the currents were fast.

Image:7 Scenic yes, but we would rather not

Image:8 We managed to get across. Satia waded in first following one of the locals who showed the way. We then went across in groups. Here Mr Rama with some sampling at the initial stage with Satia helping out with a hammer to break the stones

Image:9 Hank being helped by Gito handling a 'pot of gold'

Image:10 Satia breaking more stones watched intently by Mr Rama and Pak Teuku

Image:11 Walking back on completion of the tasks

Image: 12 The grassy vegetation nearer to the lowlands

Image:13 The testing river crossing again. This time Mr Rama stripped off his pants to ensure a dry journey back

Image:14 Mr Rama being gingerly assisted across the fast currents

Image:15 Pak Teuku seems overly confident in facing the ordeal

Image:16 The group made it across

Image:17 A well deserved rest and refreshments all round

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