As you can imagine the Esmeraldas jungle (forest) is beautiful and immense. South American Secrets is one of the few socially conscious companies to lead tours into this part of Ecuador. There are many Ecuadorians who will never have the chance to see this incredible part of their own country. If we can't revers the deforestation soon our children and our children's children will not have the chance to see the jungle's majesty or the animals and eco-system it habitats. The Forest is very isolated and feels like a place you would find in Africa. The Afro-Ecuadorian dialect of Spanish still uses many African words, If you close your eyes and listen to the Afro-Ecuadorian speak you will think you are in Africa. It is difficult to say exactly what percent of the population the Afro-Ecuadorians really make-up in Ecuador. Some studies say three percent and other studies say as much as thirty percent. I would argue it is between seven to ten percent. These communities have been so marginalized it is very difficult to get a real accurate census of the Afro-Ecuadorian population. More than accuracy the Ecuadorian government for many years have demonstrated an incredible lack of interest in the culture and infrastructure of these communities.
While their roads, bridges, and infrastructure have been abandoned, their pride, intelligence, and culture remain a sight to see. They are truly South American Secrets' greatest secret. We encourage anyone who would like to see a different world full of nature, music, passion and hope, they should join us on our next trip into the jungle. Those who travel with us on the tour become part of a larger story and a part of a world not every one will see.
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