The Papagayo Peninsula is a mosaic of bays, beaches, islands, and a complex mangrove ecosystem hosting many species of wildlife.
We spent the morning swimming and exploring the deciduous forest of the peninsula where we found the objectively adorable ferruginous pygmy owl and a baby mantled howler monkey.
After lunch guests explored the mangroves by kayak or Zodiac. Careful scanning of the canopy by our local guides revealed American crocodiles, osprey, black hawks, flocks of parakeets, iguanas, and several species of stunning herons, including a black-crowned night heron.
Mangroves are a group of plants with adaptations that allow them to grow and thrive in saltwater environments. To step into this world was a unique ecological treat and a memorable way to begin our immersion in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
