The travel agency was having zero luck in finding me additional passengers to share the cost of a plane rental.
I went back there today; and essentially gave up.
Went next door to score some postcards instead. A german guy inside offered to sell me a CD containing 2,000 of his best pix taken over his six years here. At 20R it was a no-brainer. Then I asked him if he knew anyone who could help me rent a plane. He did; and made a call as the guy was down by the river's edge.
The guy (Indy Jones) arrives and says we should try a private airfield. He was willing to take me there for 30R. And the lady wanted to go 400 km. into the jungle to a village where she worked as a missionary, some 31 years ago. He said he could help her too!
Off we went. Her first. The man certainly did have connections. She got her boat ticket, accomodations set-up and a guide; in a matter of 15 minutes.
Now my turn.
We go to a flight school near the airport. Totally professsional. First they ask? Plane or helicopter? Then, what do I want to see? They pull out a big map. I point. They say 60 minutes minimum. I say "Make it 75". Cost? Try 1,700R (read: Exactly a "G" note).
I pull out plastic, they leave to get the plane ready. I say my goodbyes, and pay the man after getting his Business card.




















The flight pix will be posted on the next thread.

Dr. J.

I love all the candid shots..... local eye candy. No food?

Was it pretty hot muggy the whole time you were in Manaus?

MM

Mr. MM,

Yes it was both.
But tolerable!
That's normally the case when one is just pleased to be there.

Dr. J.

"We go to a flight school near the airport. Totally professsional. First they ask? Plane or helicopter? Then, what do I want to see? They pull out a big map. I point. They say 60 minutes minimum. I say "Make it 75". Cost? Try 1,700R (read: Exactly a "G" note). "

For a 75 minute flight, you paid $1,000US. You just made their year. Could have flown to Asia from Calfornia for that price.

Mr. Blazers,

Nothing like people who know nuthin'
The tour agencies were asking 2,200 for the same time and same itinerary.

Dr. J.

P.S. I can afford it! You must have a problem with that.

True but spending money you earn and throwing it away are two different things.

Mr. Blazers,

True as well. Your statement is correct.
However, I knew what the rates were, and had planned to spend whatever it took to fly over the Amazon, before I departed home.
So I didn't throw my money away.
If you were there to join me, it woulda' been half!

Dr. J.

The "Nature Loves You" chick looks like a very young light skinned Condolezza Rice.