Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
Clear skies and calm seas greeted us on the final day of our voyage aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion. During morning stretch class we entered the cove of Manuel Antonio to enjoy one of the most beautiful parks in Costa Rica. With its white sand beaches and incredible wildlife, it is understandable why more than 250,000 people a year visit this area. During the morning hikes we were able to see an incredible diversity of birds including the roseate spoonbill, wood stork, yellow-headed caracara, pale-billed woodpecker, and the often elusive common pottoo or stick bird. We also learned about a variety of local trees such the almond tree and the black palm, which the white-faced monkeys love for their fruits. Along the trail we encountered a number of animals as well. Scurrying along the forest floor were the Central American agouti, several spiny-tailed iguana and the Jesus Christ lizard that can run 10-25 km per hour on top of water. Up in the trees we found a gladiator tree frog, several bats and numerous dragonflies and butterflies.
For many, the highlight of the morning hike was the sighting of five three-toed sloths, two of which were babies born during the summer months. These animals have a highly specialized diet and are able to live off of leaves, which are low in nutrients and difficult to digest. While the sloth can eat over 80 varieties of leaves they prefer the leaf of the cecropia tree which is high in alkaloids and makes them a little drunk. The sloth in only found in the Americas and their closest relative is actually an armadillo. Even the most leisurely hikers were fortune enough to encounter these docile animals.
In the afternoon, we returned to the park to enjoy beach activities. While some stretched under the shade of a tree, others swam and body surfed in the warm waters. It was a peaceful, laid-back day in the sun, full of reflection and fun. The evening slideshow displayed the incredible journey we had taken. From the east coast of Panama, through the Panama Canal and along the geographically isolated western coast of Costa Rica, we have witnesses and learned much along our voyage. The new friendships were apparent and the smiles of contentment were contagious.
