A Journey into the Heart of Reptiles

As I embarked on my journey to Bayunca, a quaint town nestled in the heart of Colombia, I was filled with a sense of anticipation. The allure of the Reptile Zoo Tour had captured my imagination, promising an experience both educational and exhilarating. The thought of feeding alligators, crocodiles, and turtles was a far cry from my usual train travels across Europe, yet it was a detour I was eager to embrace.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by Andres, our guide, whose warm smile and impeccable English set the tone for the day. Alongside him was Mr. Michael, the zookeeper, whose passion for these creatures was palpable. As we ventured into the Vivarium del Caribe, I was struck by the vibrant ecosystem that lay before me. The air was thick with the sounds of nature, a symphony of croaks and hisses that transported me to a world far removed from the clatter of train tracks.

The Dance of the Reptiles

The tour unfolded like a well-choreographed dance, each step revealing a new facet of the reptilian world. Andres, with his wealth of knowledge, painted vivid pictures of the lives of these creatures, from the stealthy alligators to the majestic crocodiles. I found myself captivated by the stories of their habitats and behaviors, each tale more fascinating than the last.

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the feeding session. With Mr. Michael’s guidance, I held a turtle in my hands, its shell cool and smooth against my skin. The moment was both thrilling and humbling, a reminder of the delicate balance of nature. Feeding the alligators and crocodiles was an experience unlike any other, their powerful jaws snapping with precision and grace. It was a dance of trust and respect, a fleeting connection between human and beast.

A Moment to Remember

As the tour drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the day’s adventures. The impromptu photo stop at the Cartagena letters was a delightful surprise, a chance to capture the essence of this vibrant region. Yet, it was the moments spent with the reptiles that lingered in my mind, a testament to the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

This journey into the heart of reptiles was a departure from my usual travels, yet it was a reminder of the joy of exploration and discovery. As I boarded the train back to my European escapades, I carried with me the memories of Bayunca, a place where the wild and the wonderful coexist in harmony. It was a journey I would cherish, a chapter in my travelogue that spoke of adventure and awe.