Welcome to Costa Rica! We embarked National Geographic Sea Lion yesterday evening in Herradura. After travels from many different places and a rocky-rolly introduction to the Pacific overnight, people were delighted to step foot onto one of the beautiful sandy beaches of the small yet popular Manuel Antonio National Park. One of the first things to notice was the scurrying about of ghost crabs, hermit crabs, and other sand-dwelling creatures. Pelicans and turkey vultures soared above. The air was warm, and the heavy humidity threatened a possible shower.
On shore we divided into various hiking groups for introductory walks into this tropical, moist forest. Hearty hikers took the more strenuous Punta Catedral “stairmaster” trail. This piece of land is known as a tombolo, a geophysical phenomenon where sand deposits grew to connect an island to the mainland. More leisurely walkers ambled along the Sloth Valley trail, named not for their pace, but rather for the ancient creatures living in the trees here. Naturalists began sharing exciting stories of life in these vital ecosystems. Among the wildlife treasures seen among the trails and trees: raccoons, white-faced capuchin monkeys, two-toed and three-toed sloths, iguanas, lizards, coatis, toucan.
Upon returning to the beach after our walks, many opted to go for a refreshing swim. We had to keep constant vigil of the live entertainment: marauding raccoons and monkeys eager to snatch any bags that might promise the reward of food.
After lunch on board we set sail southward towards our next destination and in search of marine life. It was a good time to be out on deck nourishing body and soul with fresh sea air, or clocking siesta pillow-time. Our photo instructor held a presentation mid-afternoon, and bow-riding dolphins greeted us for evening cocktails along with an incredibly colorful sunset with the infamous “green flash.” At this writing we are gathering in the lounge to recap our day, followed by dinner, and hopefully a tranquil night’s sleep.
What a glorious first day of our expedition! Rich coast indeed. Pura vida.
