Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Our morning on the National Geographic Sea Lion was a pleasant one. Clear blue skis and a soft breeze complimented the calm seas. We anchored off the west side of the remote Osa Peninsula. The peninsula is covered in a lowland tropical rainforest and is known to be one of the most species rich, intensive biological places on the planet. Zodiacs dropped us at Playa Caletas, a beautiful private reserve with a sandy beach. We divided into long, medium and short walks, and followed our naturalists along the muddy trails into the dense rainforest. Leaf cutter ants crossed the trails and we watched Central American spider monkeys in the tops of trees eating fruit. Black-throated trogans, chestnut mandible toucans and a 3-toed sloth were also spotted.
Thanks to the effort of the crew, a delicious lunch was brought ashore. We ate under a under a large canopy, as the afternoon rain pounded down above.
Back aboard the ship, we headed south until we reached the San Pedrillo entrance to Corcovado National Park, the largest nature reserve in Costa Rica. Some of our guests chose to go on a hike over 3 hours long. Along the way, we were able to take in the amazing diversity of flora and fauna. A large bird, the great curassow was seen beside our trail followed by a frolicking family of raccoons. Other guests hiked over an uneven challenging trail, crossing a stream to discover a lovely waterfall where they took a dip in a refreshing pool.
The sunset behind the clouds was a vibrant red as we cruised back to the ship for our evening recap, sharing highlights of our very full and wonderful day.
