Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Nothing could be more exciting than waking up and getting ready to visit the rainforest that the naturalists have been talking about so much. “It’s a very special place,” they explained. As we ventured through the lush forest we started to notice that, in fact, we were in a special place. “Look at this bird; it is endemic,” one of the naturalists commented as a black cheeked ant-tanager was seen. 'Endemic', what is that we wonder?
The tropical rainforest of southern Costa Rica has been isolated for millions of years. To the north and south of Osa the ecosystems become very dry and to the east there is a tall mountain range. As a result of this natural barrier the area became isolated and to this day, remains the most unique rainforest of Costa Rica. The peninsula hosts a number of birds, plants and reptiles that can only be found in this region and nowhere else in the world. There are a high number of endemic species that occur here.
In the morning, some adventurers opted for a horseback ride between the ocean and the jungle, observing great views of the coastline. Others ventured through the jungle hiking, where birds and monkeys became the inspiration of the naturalists’ stories about behavior and natural history. Riding and hiking complete, we all came back on board to enjoy another fantastic lunch, and get ready for the afternoon.
After lunch, finally the time came; we were going to visit the famous Corcovado National Park. One of the jewels of the conservation system in Costa Rica. Known to be one of the most diverse and pristine parks in the country. The park harbours a healthy population of jaguars, tapirs and harpy eagles, which are considered the largest and most elusive creatures of a new world rainforest.
We started hiking on trails of different lengths. The walks went over massive exposed root systems on the ground that were attached to gigantic trees up to 150 feet tall. Many of us walked up to a waterfall for a picture and ended our hike in a natural swimming hole; a fresh jungle stream with a small waterfall to massage our backs. What a way to discover this complex ecosystem!
As the last Zodiac leaves the beach towards the National Geographic Sea Lion there are muddy boots and wet clothes, but also cameras full of great pictures and minds full of amazing memories of this “Unique Paradise.”
