Manuel Antonio National Park & Drake Bay
A stunning sunrise was followed by excitement and fun at the Park! We found ourselves dropping anchor at Manuel Antonio Bay to go ashore in Espadilla Beach. The National Park has many enchanting beaches, each one more beautiful than the other!
Our guests quickly figured out all hints regarding Zodiac Operations after a short briefing on board the National Geographic Sea Lion. Right away, we started disembarking for one of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica, which also happens to be home for many different species of animals including monkeys, sloth and iguanas. Almost everyone saw a variety of these animals, or at least some of them, thanks to the great work of our Naturalists, as well as the now famous “skinny”, one of the best local Costarrican guides who lives in the area near the park.
Some of our guests went on the “sweaty” Punta Catedral Trail, a great example of Mother Nature’s engineering: classic geographic tombolo formation. Besides, many more opted for a little easier walk full of surprising critters such as the three-toed sloth and Capuchin Monkeys. Just upon arrival, many people were welcomed by a group of fiery-billed aracaris; a type of small toucan that is not found too often in Costa Rica.
Around noon, we left Manuel Antonio in order to proceed to a quite magic corner of Osa Peninsula, the Drake Bay. Once the National Geographic Sea Lion completed the 50 nautical miles that separate the Park from Drake, we were in business again and ready to deploy our Zodiacs to explore a little hidden treasure called Agujitas River. We were enjoying the area until the last sun rays announced departure time and back to the ship for a well earned dinner. All too soon, our day finished with our first recaps for the Costa Rica and Panama expedition. Rest well everyone, because tomorrow we are very certain the day will bring much more adventure, exploration and discovery!
