Ted Blank

In Limon, Costa Rica we took the “Sloth Sanctuary / Canoe Trip” which was well worth it. A couple has built up a Sloth rehab and study center at their B&B, and now have about 5 good size buildings and a nice physical plant. You see a video about Sloths in a big open room and then meet some adult and orphaned baby Sloths. Very nice creatures (both the sloths and the owners) and the atmosphere was positive and friendly. What you see is what you get, simple and nice.

The canoe trip is along a couple of canals that pass by the site, nice wide stable 5-person models. A local fellow paddles you around for about half an hour and you can see monkeys and sloths in the trees along side. It’s not “real” jungle (the road is just 50 feet away) but I was happy. We were treated to a rain storm but there are umbrellas in the canoes and even in December it is warm. For better protection bring along a disposable poncho from home (we paid a buck at the Dollar Store back home) to combine the umbrella and you will be nice and dry. I love canoe rides and this was just right, gliding along quietly and enjoying the sights and sounds. Dad came too, but the loading is done right at waters edge and they’ve gotten it just right with no problems at all, just step in and sit down. When you get back, your bus tour guide walks you along a jungle nature path with signs identifying some of the trees. More monkeys, sloths and termite nests in the trees.

Finally back to the sanctuary and a snack of fruit and fruit juice, soda and beer available, with an opportunity to pick up a few things in the gift shop. Even this was nicer than it probably sounds here. (Note to collectors: may be the only place to get real Ty sloth beanie babies. These are the two-toed versions.) The owners were both there the whole time and are very dedicated to the Sloth recovery issue. I think you can see the whole deal at http://www.ogphoto.com/aviarios/. Sadly our bus tour guide stuck to the standard list of topics… “Now I will cover the main exports of Costa Rica…” but she had a good attitude and the bus tour is only 40 minutes each way. Bring earplugs. They do stop at a local hotel on the way back for the obligatory shopping tour, but the shop is open air and quite rustic and you of course don’t have to buy anything. Highly recommended.

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