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Travel
to Costa Rica
The South Pacific region of Costa Rica is
known for its biological diversity, natural beauty and
intensely complex ecosystems. National Geographic magazine
has called the area "the most biologically intense place
on earth". This southern region offers dramatic scenery
unforgettable adventures and a time to remember. Can
you afford to pass this tip? The best time to visit
the area is during the months of January through April
when there is little rain. But if you don't mind a downpour
the blooms and the lush green of the forest will more
than compensate for any dampness. Diving, snorkeling,
hiking and bird watching are ideal for the true exploration
of a country. You will learn about the different facets
of the forest's major players. The guide will enable
you to see the more elusive or unobtrusive sights the
forest has to offer. Your provisions should include
insect repellent. The mosquitoes and sand flies are
abundant.
Boats are the main means of transportation
for visiting coastal areas of the peninsula, so throw
in the sun gear. The beaches of Pan Dulce, Carate and
Carbonara are quite beautiful and great for day trips.
Corcovado National Park
Spanning more than 40.000 hectares, this
park is an excellent expanse of primary forest. There
are many species of flora found here that aren't found
in many other parks because of gaps caused by deforestation.
Visitors will find an incredible wealth of animals in
Corcovado. Bird species alone number more than 400 and
are followed by more than one hundred different species
of amphibians. Mammal species also surpass the 100 mark.
A real treat of Corcovado is its population of scarlet
macaws. These raucous birds aren't that difficult to
spot if you can recognize their call. The sight of pairs
of scarlet macaws flying above the canopy is a sight
that will most assuredly leave you breathless.
The trails that wind through the park are
lengthy and will take you through an amazingly rich
tropical forest. Epiphytes and lianas abound on the
trunks and boughs of majestic trees.
Cano Island
Found 12 miles off the Osa Peninsula's western
coast. Cano Island is a treat to visit. Armed with binoculars
and a guide, travelers will have no trouble enjoying
the island to the fullest. Intrepid naturalists enjoy
hitting the trails while divers and snorkelers head
for the water!
The rich archaeological sites found on the
island counterbalance the intricate forest system. The
island is believed to have a burial site for pre-Columbian
indigenous from the mainland. These people and their
beliefs remain a mystery buried beneath the growth of
the primordial forest.
During your hike you will most likely see
a great deal of artifacts, but refrain from touching
or moving them. Pestles, corn-grinding tables and pottery
have been found. Some of the most interesting pieces
are large solid rock spheres scattered around the island.
They are believed to have been used as markers for graves
and are made of granite.
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