Our tropical journey, on board National Geographic Quest, began last night with the crossing of the first set of the Panama Canal Locks, the Gatun Locks on the Caribbean Sea side. This first segment took us directly to Gatun Lake, formed by the damming of the Chagres River in 1923, which also created the first – and one of the three most productive – research stations in the Neotropics, Barro Colorado Island (BCI). With segments that include part of the mainland, BCI is nowadays declared a Natural Monument, and we got the chance to explore this amazing site three ways: a walk on the mainland site known as the Discovery Center, another one on the original island, or via a Zodiac cruise, exploring the island’s edge. Whatever we chose to do, we were rewarded with great sights of various animals like black throated and slaty-tailed trogons, spectacled owls, golden-orbed spiders, howler and white-throated capuchin monkeys and many more. This is just the beginning of our week’s journey through Panama and Costa Rica.
1/7/2025
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National Geographic Quest
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Today, our group embarked on an unforgettable journey through the diverse landscapes of Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Starting at the Las Pailas trail, we were greeted by bubbling mud pots and fumaroles, a vivid reminder of the park’s volcanic activity. The strong smell of sulfur contrasted beautifully with the lush greenery around us. The highlight of the day was a sighting of a group of white-faced capuchin monkeys playfully moving through the canopy. Their acrobatics added an energetic touch to the serene environment. Along the trail, we identified tropical dry forest flora like guanacaste trees and gumbo limbo, marveling at their adaptations to this unique ecosystem. At the seasonal waterfall, the group enjoyed a refreshing break. Bird enthusiasts were delighted to spot keel-billed toucans. The day concluded with a breathtaking sunset on the Pacific Ocean, framed by a dramatic sky. This expedition showcased the park’s blend of volcanic wonders and rich biodiversity, leaving everyone eager to return for more adventures.
