From the Pacific to the Caribbean

Wed 25 Oct: We were up early, had breakfast and was on our way to Niuyaca Waterfall just after 7 am. From the parking lot we had a hot and sweaty 3.3 km walk to the falls, oh how we were looking forward to a swim when we got there. First we went and viewed the upper fall, enjoying the lovely spray, then took the track down to the river and the lower fall. Again a lot of spray to cool us down and just as well because there was no way you were able to swim, don't know if it was just from the heavy rain all last night but it was a large and strong flow coming down. So after photos we started heading back, but a sighting of an agouti soon made us get the cameras out again. About half way we heard this bird making a lot of noise. I eventually found it high up in the tree, and got very excited because it was a Toucan, tried to get some photos but difficult at that distance, after about 10 minutes it flew off. We then got back on the road about 11 am to start heading across the island to Cahuita. Google said it was 327 km and would take 6 hrs 38 mins. Costa Rica does not do straight roads - very up and down, twisty turny and not very wide, and also most of it in the clouds or rain so extremely slow going, especially because you normally get stuck behind very slow trucks, and if you are lucky to get passed one there is another one just ahead. Our eta was about 6 pm - our accomodation's check-in was only until 8 pm so we were felt okay about this and stopped for about 40 minutes for lunch at Cartago. Carrying on the rain was consistent and so was the slowness. Got onto the main highway down the coast, about 40 kms to go and we thought it would be smooth sailing, and due to arrive at 7.30pm. Then we stopped, and waited, and crawled along - not even sure if it was from an accident or roadworks. Finally got moving again, and 8 pm found a shop to try and ring the accommodation, but there was no answer. Eventually arrived 8.45 pm, 9 hrs 45 from leaving the waterfall, what a long hard drive. Doug went in and got the owner out of bed, and luckily we could get our room. Both exhausted it was a quick shower and into bed.Read more