Costa Rica Part Four

We traveled from Tortuguero by boat, bus and van to Arenal, a volcano in the rain forest. Along the way we saw many pineapple fields.

 Unfortunately, the three days we were there were rainy, cloudy and foggy; so we never actually got to see the volcano. That doesn't mean we didn't have some fun adventures there. The first night we went to Tabacon Hot Springs Resort and Spa, where natural springs and pools of mineral waters run through the tropical forest. The hot springs river runs right through the resort. It was a very nice place.

The next morning we took a boat ride on Lake Arenal, a man made lake created by a dam which provides about 20 percent of the electricity for the country. Our destination was the Arenal Volcano National Park where we participated in a two hour guided hike. The scenery was beautiful even though it was quite cloudy. The rain held off until we were done with the hike.

We learned that most of the trees in the rain forest have plants growing on them. These plants don't harm or help the tree, they coexist. Here is a tree with many bromeliad plants growing on it.

Massive cane plants were growing along the side of part of the path.

At the end of the path, we were supposed to see the volcano. This day, we were only able to see about one-third of the bottom of it. Arenal Volcano is active, and has erupted as recently as 2010.  There are 112 volcanos in Costa Rica.

Here's what it looks like on a sunny day. Too bad we didn't get to see it in all its glory!

There were orchids growing throughout the rain forest. So beautiful.

On the boat ride back, we saw this group of black vultures hanging out on the rocks.

Back at the resort, we went for a swim and enjoyed the hot tubs and the pool bar. Here's the view from our balcony. On a clear day, the volcano is in the background.

This tree is called a traveler's palm. The fronds turn with the sun, helping travelers with direction. It looks like a giant fan.

There were so many birds in the trees on the grounds. I think this is a black-cowled oriole.

And this might be a yellow warbler. I really need a bird expert with me on these trips.

Don’t wish upon a star – Reach for one!