Our tropical journey, on board National Geographic Quest, began last night with the crossing of the first set of the Panama Canal Locks, the Gatun Locks on the Caribbean Sea side. This first segment took us directly to Gatun Lake, formed by the damming of the Chagres River in 1923, which also created the first – and one of the three most productive – research stations in the Neotropics, Barro Colorado Island (BCI). With segments that include part of the mainland, BCI is nowadays declared a Natural Monument, and we got the chance to explore this amazing site three ways: a walk on the mainland site known as the Discovery Center, another one on the original island, or via a Zodiac cruise, exploring the island’s edge. Whatever we chose to do, we were rewarded with great sights of various animals like black throated and slaty-tailed trogons, spectacled owls, golden-orbed spiders, howler and white-throated capuchin monkeys and many more. This is just the beginning of our week’s journey through Panama and Costa Rica.
1/3/2025
Read
National Geographic Quest
Drake Bay
Today’s adventure began with an invigorating hike through the lush rainforests of Drake Bay. We ventured deep into the well-preserved primary forest, where nature flourished in its undisturbed splendor. The sound of exotic birds filled the air, and we were fortunate enough to observe toucans with their vivid beaks, and black hawks soaring high above. The forest, rich in biodiversity, is a testament to the conservation efforts that have kept it thriving. We marveled at the towering trees and the vibrant foliage, our guides explaining the delicate balance that sustains this remarkable ecosystem. In the afternoon, we embarked on an exciting boat journey along the Agujitas River. The river offered a breathtaking view of the surrounding environment, and the birdwatching was nothing short of spectacular. We spotted a tiger heron standing tall and regal along the riverbanks, while slaty-tailed trogons flashed their colorful plumage. Other sightings included the impressive ringed kingfisher, as well as black-crowned night herons, and boat-billed herons. As we continued, a playful monkey made an appearance, leaping from one tree to another, providing a delightful spectacle for all of us. Today's adventures were a beautiful blend of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, showcasing the diverse wildlife that thrives in this stunning corner of Costa Rica.
