Kayak Tour through the Mangroves
AUTHOR: Rebekka Probst
Recently, I had the unique opportunity to go on a Kayak tour through the mangroves in the river Terraba. We started at a small beach south of Ojochal (Puerto Boca Coronado), where our friendly tour guide greeted us. After a short introduction, we pushed our Kayaks into the river and started paddling! At first, navigating one Kayak with two persons was quite hard, but we got the trick after a while. So we were heading directly towards the river mouth until we weren’t pushed back by the waves anymore and turned left and followed the shoreline. About ten minutes later, our guide showed us a narrow, hidden entrance to the mangroves. As we were gliding through the mangrove forest, we became very quiet so as not to disturb the wildlife.

The mangroves are remarkable natural phenomena; in this environment, you can discover an enormous variety of species that live between the salty ocean and the sweet waters of the river (called salubrious water).
The Mangrove forest is essential in reducing tidal fluctuations and erosion and offers a unique habitat and recreational space for marine life with its labyrinth of large interwoven roots. As mangroves provide protection and food, they are the perfect environment for pelagic species such as Algae, barnacles, crustaceans, sponges, and mangrove crustaceans to grow. Over time, those plants have adapted perfectly to the saltwater and the small amount of oxygen.

Not only does marine life profit from this unique ecosystem, but reptiles, mammals, and a variety of birds also find a habitat with excellent conditions in the mangroves.
On our tour, we could see mangrove crabs, leguaans, and waterbirds.
After leaving the mangrove forest again, we paddled to the opposite shore of Playa Garza (which was further away than expected). It belongs to a small peninsula full of coconut trees. We walked to the other side of the island to find the perfect spot to sit and relax. We drank coconut milk, which our guide had freshly cut for us, ate some pineapple, and got rewarded for our efforts with one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen.
We returned to our starting point before it got completely dark, which was luckily easier as the tide was lower. As we arrived and thanked our guide for our tour, we were exhausted but filled with so many new expressions and emotions that made our trip worthwhile!
What to do, Where to eat and Where to stay…
South Pacific Costa Rica Beaches
Looking for business directories, maps or other printouts? We’ve got that too!
Dare to Discover and Enjoy…
Check out…
Need help planning your next trip to Costa Rica? We look forward to help you!
Email: carlos@ballenatales.com
Phone: +(506) 8946 7134 or +(506) 8914 1568
Skype: ballenatalestravel

Free Digital Magazine in Costa Rica #89
Ballena Tales is an essential free digital magazine in Costa Rica, valid for travelers, residents, and investors



Sierpe mangroves
The mangrove forest and its massive maze and the intertwining of trees and roots is considered to be a critical component acting to subdue tidal surge, reduce erosion, provide opportunities for recreation and serve as nurseries for fisheries.



Back to the Earth
In each magazine edition, writers often relate to a topic relevant to the particular timing of the publication. Unfortunately, we are all writing with heavy hearts about the loss of Dagmar in this issue. Her vibrant personality and dedication to this magazine will surely be missed.



An unforgettable Tour to Caño Island
I had the opportunity to take a Caño Island tour. Since I was a little kid, I have loved swimming in the ocean and looking out for all the sea creatures.



The Bees – a Beautiful Example
In Costa Rica, we have over 50 species of bees. From the Apis melifera (an introduced species), to many others that have co-evolved with native plants.



Path of the Tapir Biological Corridor
Birth of the environmental movement in Costa Ballena.
At the beginning of the last century, tapirs, jaguars, white-lipped peccary, red brocket deer, harpy eagles, giant anteaters, and others wandered freely through the forests in the area that today is known as the Costa Ballena and the Path of the Tapir Biological Corridor.



Stone Veneer Decorations
Deco Rock is a family business based in Costa Rica. It opened its doors in 2007 with the passion of creating luxurious stone veneer decorations that create unique spaces that give an atmosphere full of elegance.