Today’s activities showed how much Costa Rica’s environment affects both tourism and agriculture, especially during the beginning of the low season. At the hanging bridges, the inconsistent rain made the rainforest feel even more alive. The trails were muddy, the bridges were slippery and the hanging bridges were extremely wobbly(I was terrified). Even though the weather made the experience more challenging, it also made it more exciting and authentic because the rainforest depends on that rain to stay so green and full of life. The rain also changes how tourism companies operate during this season. With fewer visitors traveling to Costa Rica, businesses have to find ways to keep tours interesting and safe even in wet conditions. The hanging bridges tour still attracts tourists because the rain actually adds to the rainforest experience instead of taking away from it.
Later, we visited an organic sugarcane and chocolate farm that demonstrated how farmers adapt to Costa Rica’s rainy season as well. The farm was started by five siblings and now grows more than 160 different crops, which helps protect the business during slower tourism months or difficult weather conditions. Instead of depending on one product, they diversify what they grow and sell, including chocolate, sugarcane, coffee, and fresh produce. They also use natural pesticides made from poisonous plants to keep their farming methods environmentally friendly. One of the most memorable parts of the visit was getting to pet a cow named Blanca while learning about how connected the farm is to the land around it. Even though the rain can make farming and tourism harder, today showed how businesses in Costa Rica use sustainability, creativity, and eco-tourism to continue succeeding during the low season.