Last full day in Costa Rica

On Sunday we left our hotel next to the national park to return to San Jose. The drive was some 3+ hours, with a few stops along the way. Our major activity was taking a “crocodile safari ride” on the Tarcoles River. The boats were covered, long and flat, and we had one to ourselves. We saw many crocodiles - some in the water and some soaking up the sun. Also more birds, including roseate spoonbills, storks and pelicans. Soon after leaving the boat site, Jose noticed some colorful macaws out of the window, and we got off bus to watch and photograph them. There were at least 10-12 macaws and they’re beautiful! We also found one peeking out of a tree hole. After tthe macaw stop, we were dropped at a large souvenir shop with Costa Rican goods, then on to our hotel in San Jose. It was a Sunday afternoon and traffic was terrible! We said farewell to our funny and safe bus driver, Chiri. Our group then gathered to review our week’s activities and to have our final dinner together.
In all, the trip was very successful: the activities were as advertised (though a little less rigorous than I expected), but what made it especially successful was our tour leader who was strong - personable, organized, and generous with information (macro and micro) along the way; and we had a terrific group of participants with no duds. Jane and I got along well - though expected, a relief and encouraging in the event of future travel together. The sixteen participants in our group bonded well, though I doubt I will make an effort to see any of them - most of whom live in the west (AZ, CA and OR), with only one other person from the East Coast (Brooklyn). If any were to come to DC, it would be fun to reconnect.Read more