Costa Rica Ecological Study Tour

COSTA RICA
Ecological Study Tour
April 14-24, 2013

KJZZ travelers had a ball in Costa Rica on this Ecological Study Tour. The group first visited the Tirimbina Rainforest Center, located in the northern part of Costa Rica, for an intimate look at the amazing biodiversity of the area with its many trails filled with flora and fauna. From here the group explored the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve with a Skywalk under the canopy and zip line through the rainforest. After the height of Monteverde, it was back to earth and time for a river float trip and soak in the thermal springs around Rincon de la Vieja.  The group wrapped up their studies with a day at the beach in Guanacaste.

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STORIES FROM THE ROAD

Photo Compliments of Adrian Major

"I have grown up around horses and cattle ranches my whole life. One of my dreams has always been to ride a horse on a sandy beach by the ocean. Our last day was spent at the Sugar Beach Resort on the ocean. Several of us signed up to ride horses on the beach (little did we know what was in store for us).

We were dropped off at at a working cattle ranch. We were greeted by a young man who introduced us to his mother. She was making coffee and tortillas for us. She wanted us the experience a real family. The food was delightful and they were very surprised to find out that I had been riding since I was three (3). I admired their cattle and their horses. Soon it was time to go. What an amazing experience it was for me to ride along the water for the first time. I was also very touched that the family made such an effort to share their way of life with us."

--Millie Hudson

"Minor (our guide) greeted us every morning with a huge smile and an offer of a short walk. His enthusiasm was contagious and I made sure that I never missed a chance to experience Costa Rica thru his eyes.

On our last day in the jungle. I was exhausted until Minor walked by and said "how about a little walk before dinner." I jumped at the chance and so did three of my companions.

As we walked Minor spotted a very rare bird and we were able to see it too. Then he took us to the most beautiful lagoon with a small waterfall, the water was soo blue and crystal clear, we could see to the bottom. The beauty of it brought tears to my eyes! As I type this I have tears in my eyes and my heart aches as I experience the wonder of that evening. I will treasure that memory for the rest of my life."

--Millie Hudson