Suspension Bridges. We arrived at Monteverde to lunch at the Selvatura Suspension bridges lodge. The Selvatura suspension bridges are high above the forest floor, a chance to walk into the canopy of the forest and see what lives in the higher echelons. Everyone knows I have an issue with heights, a fight or flight response to seeing down to the ground way below my feet. The bridges are built of chain metal, which afford a terrific view to all and create a need to flee for me. So I beat a retreat to the hummingbird garden while the group caught glimpses of a Quetzal, and a couple of howler monkeys, including a large male who was enjoying a fine meal in his treetop home. Dave got some good photos of the forest from the bridges. In the hummingbird garden I enjoyed being 'buzzed' by hundreds of birds. I copied another visitor and used my hand as a perch for these jewel-toned wonders, and was entranced as more than 50 took turns sitting and sipping. It was a day I will never forget. My photos aren't in order...but I guess you can figure out the narrative of the day!

To Monteverde

We left our lovely hotel in Arenal, and drove through a changing landscape.  From lush transitional forest over through the continental divide to the drier Pacific slopes.  Leaving the pavement, we headed up into the hillsides towards Monteverde, and the cloud forest.  Spectacular views coupled with the impressive driving skills of our fine "chauffeur" brought oohs and ahs!
All good things come at a price and the road also helps protect this unique landscape for the benefit of humanity. 

Arenal Lake Cruise

The Arenal Lake is a result of a hydroelectric dam, and is the largest freshwater lake in the country.  With glorious views of the volcano, and birds and otters, we enjoyed our time on the water immensely.  Arenal is a fabulously interesting sight, constantly changing as humid Caribbean air swirls around it from the east.  We saw an Anhinga (snake bird), egrets, turkey vultures, a hawk, a peregrine, hummingbirds, two types of kingfishers and herons, among others.  A trip to town was then followed by a delicious meal!

Arenal Kioro Hotel. What a great spot, with a real live volcano to enjoy! With hot springs in the gorgeous gardens on site, we enjoyed testing the waters. Lots of flora and fauna to enjoy. And delicious meals, too!