Osa Peninsula, Caletas Wildlife Refuge, and Agujitas River , 1/10/2024, National Geographic Quest
Aboard the
National Geographic Quest
Costa Rica, Panama & Colombia
Today we had the great opportunity of exploring the Osa Peninsula, which is one of the most pristine and remote places of Costa Rica, and what a great day we had.
We started our morning with different walks in Caletas Wildlife Refuge, where we not only got to see a beautiful, pristine tropical forest but some of its creatures, including spider monkeys. These are a rare sighting!
In the afternoon, we went up a local river thanks to the higher tide and got to see more spider monkeys, macaws, toucans, and green iguanas. What a beautiful day to begin our trip.
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We visited Coiba Island National Park today and had an unforgettable experience that blended nature and adventure. In the morning, guests embarked on a guided nature walk through the lush, untouched forests of the island where they encountered diverse wildlife and vibrant plant life. The air filled with the sounds of tropical birds, making the experience feel like a step into another world. After the walk, the crystal-clear waters surrounding Coiba offered the perfect setting for an exciting snorkeling session. As travelers glided through the water, they were welcomed by schools of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs, often spotting sea turtles and even sharks along the way. In the afternoon, the adventure continued with kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing travelers to explore the pristine coastline from a new perspective. The gentle waves made these activities perfect for all skill levels. As the day ended, guests enjoyed a magical sunset on the sundeck overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The sky burst with vibrant colors and playful dolphins emerged, dancing alongside the ship, creating an awe-inspiring scene. Coiba offered a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure. Photos by Fabian Barquero, Karson Winslow
This morning aboard National Geographic Quest , we made a special visit to a private property officially known as Dolphin Quest, named after the dry river that gives the area its name. After a satisfying breakfast, our guests disembarked with excitement, eager to explore the serene beauty of this location. Rio Seco, with its tranquil atmosphere and lush surroundings, offers a perfect escape into nature. The guests scattered in small groups, each choosing a different path to immerse themselves in the landscape. Along the walks, they were delighted to spot white-faced capuchin monkeys, while the calls of various birds added to the charm. Some guests were fortunate to see the majestic scarlet macaws, both in the morning and afternoon. In the afternoon, we repositioned to Golfito, anchoring at the Golfito Dock. The outing began with some guests exploring the area by kayaks, while others took a Zodiac cruise. We spotted a Central American tree boa, several seabirds, and a three-toed sloth hanging at the edge of the forest. As we returned, the hills of Golfito grew cloudy, and we were greeted by a refreshing rain.
Today, we were immersed in the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at Playa Blanca on the Osa Peninsula. Our day was rich with experiences, from visiting local families to engaging in traditional activities. We were captivated by wildlife encounters, including seeing macaws, sloths, and a plethora of bird species. We also enjoyed cultural activities. Some of us explored an historic sugar mill, tried panning for gold, delved into a chocolate farm, and observed hearts of palm harvesting. Another highlight was taking a nature walk or a rainforest hike, both providing insights into the lush biodiversity of this region. We enjoyed a delightful lunch ashore, deepening our connection with the local community. It was a memorable day blending culture and nature.
