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A Tour Of Paradise
By Jason Cannon
Anglers who appreciate the beauty of the outdoors will experience a thrill when they steep themselves in the ecological diversity of the Osa Peninsula. More than 400 species of birds including toucans, hawks, eagles, falcons, tanagers and the world's largest population of scarlet macaws inhabit this lush rain forest. Nearly 140 species of mammals including monkeys and sloths reside here among the 500 species of trees. Crocodiles, whales and dolphins can be found in the surrounding waters. A variety of eco-tours offers visitors the chance for exploration.
Tour guide Juan Carlos took us to Matapalo, located at the southwestern point of the peninsula. We sat on padded benches in the back of a pickup truck for a 30-minute open-air ride to the jungle. Upon reaching Matapalo, a pack of white-faced spider monkeys (swinging from tree to tree) greeted us, then a timid sloth tried to hide at the top of the canopy. Rain fell in buckets for about 20 minutes when, almost as if on cue, the skies parted as we reached a series of breathtaking waterfalls surrounded by hundreds of species of mosses, ferns and trees. After we scaled several of the falls (attached to climbing gear), we listened as the deep, huffing sound of howler monkeys filled the air. Dark and angry-looking, they kept high in the trees, not offering us a show like the tiny spider monkeys.
On the way back to the car, we heard a rumble as we neared the volcanic-rock-laden shoreline. Once we saw the 8- to-10-foot waves crashing - and the surfers riding along with them in perfect symmetry - we realized we were at the pinnacle of paradise. (There's a surfing tour, too).
Other tours, such as gold panning (the nearest town, Puerto Jiminez, began as a goldmining town in the early 1900's), horseback rides, kayaking and snorkeling, let you choose adventures beyond the fishing. For the most daring, try the rain-forest canopy tour. After a strenuous hike in virgin rain forest, you can climb up the inside of a giant hollow tree. Crocodile Bay Lodge can arrange eco tours in addition to your fishing packages.
For additional information on touring other parts of Costa Rica, contact the Costa Rica Tourism Institute at 011-506-233-2349, fax 011-506-221-6127.
© 2002 World Publications, LLC February 2000
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