A Morning with Monkeys and Waterfalls

The day began with the sun peeking through the lush canopy of the Costa Rican rainforest, casting dappled shadows on the path ahead. As a seasoned traveler and surfer, I’m always on the lookout for new adventures, and the Rainforest Tour seemed like the perfect way to explore the inland wonders of Bijagua de Upala. Our guide, Dayro, greeted us with a warm smile and a promise of an unforgettable day.

We hadn’t been on the trail long when we were treated to a special surprise: a family of wild howler monkeys lounging in the treetops. Their calls echoed through the forest, a sound as thrilling as the crash of waves on a distant shore. It was a reminder of the untamed beauty that Costa Rica holds, both on its beaches and in its jungles.

Our next stop was the Llanos de Cortes waterfall, a hidden gem that took my breath away. The short walk to the falls was easy, even for my fellow adventurer, my 72-year-old mom, who joined us on this journey. The waterfall cascaded into a serene pool, inviting us to wade in and feel the refreshing spray on our skin. It was a moment of pure bliss, akin to catching the perfect wave.

Coffee, Chocolate, and Compassion

After drying off, we made our way to a nearby coffee and chocolate plantation. The rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans mingled with the sweet scent of cacao, creating an intoxicating blend that was impossible to resist. We were given the chance to grind our own coffee and chocolate, a hands-on experience that deepened my appreciation for these beloved commodities.

The plantation staff welcomed us with open arms, treating us like family. They were especially attentive to my mom, ensuring she was comfortable and included in every activity. Their kindness reminded me of the camaraderie found among surfers, where everyone looks out for one another, whether on land or at sea.

As we sipped our freshly brewed coffee and savored the rich chocolate, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my mom. It was a reminder that adventure knows no age, and that the spirit of exploration is something we can all embrace, no matter where we are in life.

Sloths, Toucans, and a Touch of Magic

The wildlife portion of the tour was nothing short of magical. We spotted a vibrant frog, an elusive eyelash viper, and several sloths lazily hanging from the trees. The highlight, however, was witnessing two baby sloths on the ground, one munching on a leaf while the other climbed from bush to bush. It was a scene straight out of a nature documentary, and I felt privileged to witness it firsthand.

As the tour came to a close, we were treated to a lucky sighting of a toucan enjoying a snack. Its colorful plumage was a striking contrast against the verdant backdrop of the rainforest. We ended our day with a snack of our own, reflecting on the incredible sights and experiences we had shared.

Dayro, our guide, went above and beyond, taking us to see the wind turbines and offering a stunning view of Tenorio. He even stopped at a souvenir shop, allowing us to take our time browsing for mementos of our adventure. His kindness and attentiveness, especially towards my mom, made the day truly special.

In the end, the Rainforest Tour was more than just a day of exploration; it was a celebration of nature, family, and the spirit of adventure. It’s a reminder that while the waves may call me back to the coast, the heart of Costa Rica beats just as strongly in its rainforests.