Osa Peninsula, Caletas Bay, and Corcovado National Park, 12/21/2018, National Geographic Quest
Aboard the
National Geographic Quest
Costa Rica, Panama & Colombia
Today we began our morning looking at the outer side of the Osa Peninsula in Caletas’ Bay, whereas the last two days we had been in its inside. On the final day of our expedition, we have the opportunity to explore one of the best kept pieces of tropical rainforest there are left in the country. The Osa Peninsula was once left adrift for poachers, loggers, and gold-panners to do as they wished, but in the mid-1980s most of its area was declared a national park and since has protected some of the most amazing flora and fauna.
Isa Salas is a Costa Rica born biologist, who loves her country and teaching about it. Known for her professionalism and experience in the field of animal behavior, Isa earned her master's degree in biology from the University of Costa Rica, where sh...
Nicknamed “Indio” (Indian) because of his powers of observation and quiet nature, José has almost two decades of experience working as a naturalist and photography guide; as well as being recognized as an expert birder and nature photographer in Cost...
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After six days of amazing exploration in Central America, we explored the buffer zone of one of the most important national parks in Costa Rica, Corcovado. The morning began with a Zodiac cruise on Agujitas River. On this amazing tour, we had the opportunity to observe different species of animals, including iguanas, long-nosed bats, boat-billed herons, and yellow-crowned night herons. Traveling deep into the river, we spotted spider monkeys. These monkeys are indicators of a healthy rainforest. As fruit eaters, they need a large and healthy rainforest. We enjoyed two rounds of Zodiac cruises before returning to the ship. In the afternoon, we explored another area, Caletas Private Reserve. Guests enjoyed various hikes, including a long hike around the property and a medium walk around the gardens. For a big surprise that thrilled our guests, we spotted spider monkeys eating fruit in the canopy of the water apple tree. Exploring the rainforest was the best way to finish a great day.
Today we had a beautiful day at Playa Blanca exploring this amazing tropical forest. In addition to seeing the macaws and monkeys, we had a wonderful, rich experience hosted by the locals. We were able to visit some of the unique, small projects that the families of Playa Blanca are developing, from a sugarcane artisanal mill and hearts of palm farm to an organic cacao farm. Not only did we learn about their businesses, but we had a beautiful time with these people who welcomed us warmly with open arms (and also gave us delicious local snacks!). What a wonderful day we had enjoying the wildlife, the diversity of the tropical rainforest, and the people.
Today, National Geographic Quest entered Costa Rica. Our Morning was spent enjoying Zodiac cruises or kayaking mangroves as the ship’s officers were checking into this beautiful country. After lunch, we visited Dolphin Quest Gardens in Golfo Dulce and explored the gardens and tropical rainforest. Teeming with life, we were delighted to find the variety of wildlife that exists within this magical area of Costa Rica. From spider monkeys and scarlet macaws to various lizards and abundant flora, there was something to entice all to fall in love with this destination. As our hikes drew to a close, Mother Nature helped cool us down with a short but substantial rainfall, known locally as a chubasco.
