Today we got to explore one of the many rainforests of Costa Rica at the Mistico hanging bridges, paddle board on a lake, and tour another organic plantation. It felt a little bit like walking through jurassic park during the hike as we got to explore and experience all of the strange vegetation and cool wildlife (poison dart frog, monkeys, squirrels, and much more!). We also got few special treats today, as our amazing bus driver Pino (easily the best in Costa Rica) spotted a sloth as well as a rainbow macaw. It was amazing being able to see them completely out in the wild. During the hike, we got caught in a bit of rain, but nothing too bad. I do enjoy a good rainstorm and look forward to maybe getting caught in a torrential downpour at some point, but we have actually been really lucky with the timing of the rain here so far.

While we were out on the lake, it rained a little bit as well but it only lasted a few minutes. And at the plantation, it felt almost a little too lucky as the heavy rain only came when we were under cover and left us dry while walking throughout the uncovered areas of the farm. We got to try some freshly pressed sugarcane juice and chew on some raw sugarcane, and I was also the only person to try the “vomit fruit” (don’t recommend.). We also got to learn more about chocolate and the process of producing different products, such as the “drink of the gods” (a spicy chocolate drink) and some pure cocoa fondue. As I mentioned earlier, the rain has been very kind to us so far and really hasn’t interfered with any of our activities (other than cutting our viewing of the sloth a tad short).

One thing that I have definitely learned in Costa Rica is that you have to just work with the weather, as it can change drastically even just minute to minute. I can definitely see why tourists are less likely to visit during the rainy season, as you don’t really have a choice but to bow to the weather. I think that the many companies and farms in Costa Rica are very adaptable and flexible because of this. One way I think that they plan for the slower season is by making sure they diversify what they offer instead of relying on one source of income year round. The biggest thing I’ve noticed throughout all the different tours and experiences we have done is that people fight the nature, and rather work alongside it. It’s been awesome being exposed to this new and different kind of perspective, and overall I think that adaptability and being super flexible is a huge part of the culture here in Costa Rica.