Today on our second day in Costa Rica, we had the fantastic opportunity to visit some of the families living in this remote part of the country and learn a little of the Costa Rican culture. We found the people to be very warm and welcoming, and we enjoyed a taste of their local products: sugarcane, heart of palm, chocolate, vanilla, bananas, and pineapples, to name a few. In both the morning and the afternoon we visited local families, as well as the adjacent tropical rainforest. There we enjoyed great views of squirrel monkeys, yellow-throated toucans, scarlet macaws, a mother three-toed sloth with her baby, and a mother two-toed sloth with her baby. In all, it was a great day experiencing the culture and natural history for which Costa Rica is so well known.
12/23/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Playa Blanca, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
This morning, we were greeted by the calm waters of Golfo Dulce as National Geographic Quest approached Playa Blanca, the destination of the day in the heart of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Today was dedicated to immersing ourselves in the sustainable practices and vibrant culture of local Costa Rican families. In the morning, guests had the opportunity to explore various facets of local life. Some ventured into the heart of the Osa Peninsula to observe gold panning and visit a historic sugar mill, while others toured cacao plantations or hiked through the lush rainforest. Another group visited a women-run hearts of palm farm, learning about its eco-friendly practices. After returning to the beach for a BBQ lunch, guests were treated to traditional Costa Rican dances. In the afternoon, we resumed our explorations, visiting more local sites. Later, scientists from the Latin American Sea Turtle Association shared their efforts in protecting these remarkable creatures. We had the incredible experience of watching them release rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean—an unforgettable way to end the day.
