Amazon lodge guests thrilled to find tarantulas right outside their door

Canadian tourists ventured all the way to the tropical rainforest and spent a week at the remote and secluded Sacha Lodge in the heart of the Amazon in Ecuador. They were hoping to experience the peace and tranquility of the jungle, as well as having a close up look at the animal life. They were not disappointed!

The rainforest is alive with sounds and sights, whether it is daylight or night time. There are always birds and insects, as well as frogs and toads, chirping and singing in a deafening chorus. Howler monkeys passing right by the lodge created a spectacle that could not be ignored. The unique bird calls were like a symphony as they called back and forth in an ancient and mesmerizing form of communication.

But the Amazon is also home to some intimidating and even terrifying creatures, and for some, this was also an opportunity to confront their fears face on. Tarantulas are among the world's biggest spiders. They are silent and impressive in their ability to appear out of nowhere, blending in perfectly with their surroundings. Always looking for a chance to ambush a meal, these spiders move slowly, or sit completely still. Finding them on the walkway, or in the foliage outside the lodge rooms was an exciting experience. Knowing that they have no interest in biting, or even frightening a human, it's easy to start seeing them for the fascinating and amazing creatures that they are. When you stop and look at them and learn about the animals themselves, the world around us does not seem so scary. Much of what we know, or think we know, about these spiders comes from the sensationalized presentation of Hollywood movies. They are seen as vicious beasts that are just waiting to pounce on unsuspecting humans.

While the tarantula does pack a very painful venom in its bite, these spiders are rarely the cause of death or even serious problems for people. Avoiding a bite is not difficult because they don't have any interest in attacking and will usually only bite if they are mistreated or threatened.

These Amazon guests were able to put the myths and fears behind them and see them with a fresh perspective. They even went on a guided night hike to see tarantulas and other creatures in their home environment.