The National Geographic Sea Lion cruised into a bay this morning, anchoring not too far from Manuel Antonio National Park, located in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio National Park is a small protected park, preserving important ecosystems, and an area called Cathedral Point. Cathedral Point is a unique formation, where an island became joined to the mainland by sand deposits. This morning, land activities consisted of several walks led by naturalist. Landing on a beach, groups broke up and were offered to hike the Cathedral Point trail, with magnificent views, and a chance to spot Central American agoutis, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and learn about the beautiful plants in the area.
For those who chose not to take the Cathedral Point route, were led in another direction, to go and explore the Sloth Valley trail. This hike was led by naturalist that pointed out lazy spiny-tailed iguanas, laying on the branches of trees, and taking refuge in the shade from the hot sun. Two and three-toed sloths were spotted high in the tree tops, taking a sleepy afternoon nap. Several reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods were discovered inside, and resting on the large leaves of tropical plants. To name a few, there was a golden-green Solano grasshopper, hour-glass tree frogs, blue morpho butterflies, and the largest lizard in Costa Rica, the green iguana.
In the afternoon, there was a chance to return to Manuel Antonio Beach, to relax, walk the premises, or go swimming. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend the day at Manuel Antonio National Park.
