SUBMITTED BY: Bobbi Kraham LOCATION: Jama (Manabi Province), Ecuador (2016)
On first glance, this roadside sculpture in Jama, Ecuador, appears to be King Kong, based on its damsel-in-distress design. A staircase inside the ape lets travelers climb up to the head and look out his mouth or squeeze inside his clenched hand. However, upon further research by the Tacky Tourist Photos staff, this is more likely a representation of the “Mapinguari,” the Bigfoot of the Amazon.
“I’m not a fan of monster movies, but how could I NOT take this picture?” says Bobbi.
According to local folklore, the Mapinguari will seek revenge on humans who do not respect the nature of the Amazon Rainforest. If you ever run into one of these creatures, keep your distance. The New York Times says they are “stinky, hairy and mean.”
(Maryland’s Bobbi Kraham recently visited Ecuador with an international relief agency providing aid after an earthquake.)
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