Day 10 - Turtles, Monkeys, and Sadness

When we last left off, we were headed to the beach for turtle sweeps; at about 10:30 p.m, we ran into an Olive Ridley getting ready to nest. We were able to go up in groups of four to see her lay her eggs before she disguised the nest under the sand and took off into the ocean.

Next morning, after breakfast, we had a visit from some monkeys just outside the porch. They were eating fruit from the trees right above us. Soon after, we left to go on a hike to a secluded part of the beach. We saw lots of birds and tiny hermit crabs. We had lots of fun wave surfing and looking for fish under the waves.

Sadly, we couldn't spend as much time at the beach as we had wanted, as it had started to storm. The hike back in the rain was intense but invigorating. After a 30 minute drive, we were back at Horizontes, where we promptly showered and had snacks (including freshly cut coconuts). Some of us played soccer, others played games on the porch, and now we're about to have a wonderful barbecue. As it's our last day, the porch is decorated with lights. I hope there's dancing!

Tomorrow morning, we depart for home. We are all very excited to see our families, although this has been the most wonderful experience. We are very sad to be leaving, as it has become like a second home to us here in Costa Rica.

Pura vida!
Mariah Farley

 (A view of the estuary we walked across today)

 (One of the monkeys outside our dorms)

 (The beautiful Olive Ridley illuminated by red light)

 (The beach we walked today)

 (Cooling off after our hike!)

 (Hiding under the trees during the rain)

(Our fresh coconuts!)