Day 1: From the window, the world stretched out in endless greens and blues, with the mountains and rivers of Costa Rica just visible through wisps of cloud. Inside the plane, our team was a mix of excitement and quiet focus. Months of preparation had brought us here, and now we reviewed our notes, finalizing plans to document the Ngäbe’s unique botanical knowledge. The landscape below felt like the calm before the adventure, a promise of the discoveries awaiting us once we touched down.

Day 2: We gathered around the cozy kitchen table at our lodge, sharing a satisfying breakfast. The rich aroma of freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee filled the room, mingling with our excited chatter as we mapped out the day’s plans to explore the rainforest trails. Energized and ready, we packed our gear, eager to immerse ourselves in the lush wilderness of Costa Rica for the first time.

After breakfast, we ventured into the lively streets, greeted by the warm morning air and the sounds of locals starting their day. Each turn revealed colorful pastel houses, friendly waves, and children laughing on their way to school. The vibrant pulse of the town invigorated us as we made our way to the edge, where the lush rainforest awaited.

Day 3: Continuing our journey into the lush rainforest, surrounded by vibrant greens and rich scents. Sunlight filtered through the canopy as insects chirped around us. Our guide, Dr. Jean Carlo, shared insights on plants and their medicinal significance to the Ngäbe community. We marveled at towering trees, colorful fungi, and diverse wildlife, deepening our appreciation for the rainforest’s biodiversity and cultural connections.

Walking in the Rainforest