Our morning destination was Costa Rica’s first private refuge for wildlife, and the results of the area’s protections were apparent. Hikers ended up surrounded by calm white-faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus) foraging in the leaf litter, mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) babies learning how to climb without help, Central American agoutis (Desyprocta punctata) chasing each other on the forest floor, and many other impressive animal encounters.
In the afternoon we repositioned to Isla Iguana where guests were greeted with fresh coconuts, lounge chairs, and a classic tropical vista of turquoise water against white sand. The bar team of National Geographic Quest brought cocktail hour to the beach, and we stayed until sunset listening to salsa music and swapping stories from the week. The night concluded with an impressive display of fishing bats dipping in and out of light cast upon the sea surface from our ship.
We leave the expedition feeling grateful for each other and for all that the country of Costa Rica has gifted us this trip.
