Coiba National Park
Good morning!!! After a pleasant cruising, during the night onboard the National Geographic Sea Lion, we arrived at Coiba National Park. This place shares the possibility of seeing a unique piece of paradise. This National Park is a group of islands and islets located west of Panama’s Azuero Peninsula. It is covered by an exuberant rain forest and considered one of the biggest and most important protected coral reefs in the Eastern Pacific. It was a penal colony until 2005, when it became strictly a conservation zone, and declared by UNESCO a world Heritage Site.
After an early stretching session under a blue sky with Becky, our wellness specialist, we started to go ashore to Granito de Oro, one of the best places in the area. This little islet is surrounded by a rocky reef that hosts an impressive diversity of marine life such as parrotfish, white tip reef sharks, hawksbill turtles, trumpet fish, Moorish idols and puffer fish, among others. We were welcomed by a horde of hermit crabs moving along the white sand beach that invited us to splash in these warm waters. Several activities were enjoyed by the guests; snorkeling, kayaking, swimming or just sitting down in the refreshing shade, to treat their senses with this breathtaking landscape.
Another group was transported into the depth of the lush rain forest to hike and see another treasure of Coiba Island. White-faced capuchin monkeys, as well as many birds such as the blue dacnis were found. Approximately 2 hours gave the guests that walked a real idea of some of the living creatures that could be found in this important ecosystem.
A little past noon, the National Geographic Sea Lion repositioned in front of the Park Ranger Station. A delightful picnic lunch was served on the beach, having the chance to enjoy another calm water beach. The tide was going down, giving us the opportunity for more kayaking and beach time. Birdwatchers were also invited to continue their exploration of the surroundings; the chance was well worth it because many more colorful birds showed up. Tanagers, honeycreepers and parrots were the stars of the walk to conclude a fantastic journey.
The day was a combination of exploration, relaxation, physical activities and enjoyment of nature, which enhanced our respect and admiration for this piece of land in Central America easily known as paradise!!!
