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Costa
Rica Adventure
March 5-20, 2005
We awoke early to the sounds
of some birds that I couldn’t identify but I could certainly hear. Though it
had rained in the night, by morning the skies were clear. It was a brilliant,
beautiful day, and we made our way to the main lodge for breakfast (rice and
beans of course) before heading out on a morning hike.
Sunny day in the rainforest: Rara Avis lodge (Photo credit: CD)
A naturalist took us through
the rainforest, pointing out wildlife with nearly every step. The hike itself
was fairly tricky, as the “paths” consisted mainly of rocks and mud. We used walking sticks to help us navigate
the trail, but it was not easy in ill-fitting rubber boots that were at least
a size too big. The weather had gotten pretty hot as well, making the long
pants, tall socks and boots getup somewhat uncomfortable. Despite that, we had a good
time spotting interesting animals and plants. The “rare birds” for which Rara
Avis was named were difficult to spot, though we saw a few. The hike lasted a
couple of hours, and went past a lookout to a beautiful waterfall. Cathy and I overlooking the waterfall at Rara Avis (Photo credit: SHS) After the hike, we changed into
bathing suits and set off for the waterfall itself. The hike to reach the
swimming area was short, and we all jumped into the cool refreshing water for
a swim. There is nothing quite like swimming in a pristine waterfall in the
middle of a rainforest on a brilliant, sunny day. It was a definite trip
highlight. View of the waterfall where we went swimming (Photo credit: SHS) After a lunch of more rice and
beans, we had the option of going on an afternoon hike or staying near the
lodge. I opted for the latter, and curled up in the hammock on our balcony
with a novel to read and relax. The weather stayed nice for most of the day,
but by mid-afternoon it started to cloud over, and then the skies opened up
and water started to pour. The afternoon hikers were just heading back to the
lodge, and they made it just in time to avoid getting completely soaked. The pace of life in Rara Avis
was very relaxed. There was little to do so everyone spent time together in
the main lodge because that’s where the electricity was, hanging out, playing
cards, chatting and just having a good time. After dinner, we introduced
several people on our tour to the bean game, and some others played a lively
game of spoons. We went to sleep to the sound of the rain. Next: La Fortuna: return to civilization. |
