Barro Colorado Island, Panama Canal, 12/17/2022, National Geographic Quest
Aboard the
National Geographic Quest
Costa Rica, Panama & Colombia
Today is our final day on this expedition. Guests enjoyed Zodiac tours, forest hikes, and crossing the last set of locks during the daytime. What a wonderful way to finish an unforgettable experience.
Frank is a naturalist guide with a long career path involving his beloved Costa Rica. He grew up in Escazu, a small town surrounded by blue and green mountains in the Central Valley. His admiration for nature and wildlife turned him into an autodidac...
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Today’s adventure began with an invigorating hike through the lush rainforests of Drake Bay. We ventured deep into the well-preserved primary forest, where nature flourished in its undisturbed splendor. The sound of exotic birds filled the air, and we were fortunate enough to observe toucans with their vivid beaks, and black hawks soaring high above. The forest, rich in biodiversity, is a testament to the conservation efforts that have kept it thriving. We marveled at the towering trees and the vibrant foliage, our guides explaining the delicate balance that sustains this remarkable ecosystem. In the afternoon, we embarked on an exciting boat journey along the Agujitas River. The river offered a breathtaking view of the surrounding environment, and the birdwatching was nothing short of spectacular. We spotted a tiger heron standing tall and regal along the riverbanks, while slaty-tailed trogons flashed their colorful plumage. Other sightings included the impressive ringed kingfisher, as well as black-crowned night herons, and boat-billed herons. As we continued, a playful monkey made an appearance, leaping from one tree to another, providing a delightful spectacle for all of us. Today's adventures were a beautiful blend of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, showcasing the diverse wildlife that thrives in this stunning corner of Costa Rica.
Today marked the first day of the year and our inaugural day in Costa Rica. We began our morning in the picturesque port town of Golfito, where passengers embarked on an exciting array of kayak tours and Zodiac rides. The morning was filled with thrilling wildlife sightings, including a troop of monkeys and up to six different three-toed sloths. Numerous bird species, including vibrant toucans, were also spotted along the way. After returning to the National Geographic Quest for a delicious lunch, we set off for an afternoon adventure to Rio Seco in the Piedras Blancas National Park. Guests hiked through the stunning tropical rainforest, immersing themselves in the rich ecosystem and beautiful trails that wound through the lush jungle and vibrant gardens. Along the way, we encountered three species of monkeys and an impressive variety of birds, highlighted by the striking scarlet macaw. The day was filled with excitement and natural beauty, setting the tone for a fantastic journey ahead.
Our day began with an unforgettable snorkeling experience at the small but stunning Coco Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its underwater biodiversity. As we slipped into the warm Pacific water, we were greeted by a dazzling array of marine life. Schools of colorful fish darted among vibrant coral reefs, while whitetip reef sharks, rays, and other animals glided gracefully below. A few lucky snorkelers spotted a sea turtle leisurely swimming past. Before midday, we were all back on National Geographic Quest , where we enjoyed a delicious brunch while sharing stories of our aquatic adventures. In the afternoon, we took the Zodiac’s to the ranger station of Coiba Island, another UNESCO treasure. Immediately guests took the water to do some kayaking and paddleboarding, exploring the area. At the same time, other guests took a guided nature walk that revealed the island’s terrestrial wonders. We even spotted a white-faced capuchin descending to observe several colorful birds.