Playa Las Caletas and Corcovado National Park, Osa Peninsula
The weather seemed a little overcast when we woke up. During the night it had rained and we could feel a cool breeze on our faces. Are we going to have a good day was the concern of everyone, but suddenly towards the west a lovely rainbow was painted in the sky, giving us a sign that it was going to be a spectacular day. It was the second day of our trip and we just wanted to explore more and more.
The National Geographic Sea Lion dropped its anchor in front of Las Caletas Beach and Forest reserve, in the Osa Peninsula. This peninsula, ecologically varied, is among the most biologically unique places on earth. It is one of the untamed places of Costa Rica, home to the largest and only tropical lowland rainforest in the world. It is the habitat of a plethora of endangered plant and animal species. With the purpose to help in the preservation of the wildlife, many locals agreed in protecting the land and connecting the park with their territories using biological corridors. Isolating it from the rest of the country has allowed this place to remain pristine. The only way to get to this area is either by boat or by hiking, since there are no access roads.
Once at shore, we had several trails to choose to explore. Others decided to go and explore on horses. The trail used by the horseback riders took them through the forest, following the coastline of the peninsula. The scenery was so unique. In the distance we had the view of the volcanic rocks on the shore washed by the waves. Seven scarlet macaws flew over us, showing their lovely and colorful feathers. White Face capuchins monkeys jumped from tree to tree, foraging and ignoring the riders. A lush forest, beach, ocean and nice weather were great rewards for all the explorers. At the return to the landing, the galley had prepared a delicious picnic barbecue for lunch. Once we satisfied our need of food, we return to the ship. The National Geographic Sea Lion sailed to our next destination of the day, Corcovado National Park.
Exotic and lush, the Corcovado National Park was created in 1975 to protect this gorgeous region from illegal gold mining and logging. Today it offers its visitors different trails, with great rewards on each of them. Some of our guests explored their way through this amazing region. Spider monkeys, coatis, agoutis, great curassow, bare throated tiger herons and many other animals showed up with no fear. This proved that the area is undisturbed because of its isolation and inaccessibility. One of the trails, filled with exposed roots, ended with a spectacular waterfall. There is no better way to end a hike than taking a refreshing dip in a lovely natural pool in the middle of pristine forest.
