Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
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.