A Morning with the Sloths

The sun was just beginning to rise over the lush landscape of Guanacaste Province as I made my way to the Diamante Eco Adventure Park. The anticipation of seeing Costa Rica’s wildlife up close had me buzzing with excitement. Arriving at the park just before 9 am, I was greeted by the vibrant sounds of the jungle waking up. My first stop was the Animal Sanctuary, where I was eager to meet the park’s famous sloths.

The sloth feeding was scheduled for 9:30 am, and I made sure to be there early. As I watched the three sloths—Lucy, a 10-year-old veteran, a 4-year-old mama, and her playful baby—slowly make their way to the center of their open-air tree house, I couldn’t help but smile. Their leisurely movements and gentle demeanor were captivating. The staff, clearly passionate about their work, explained the sloths’ diet and habits. It was fascinating to see the baby sloth play with her food, dropping carrots and beans for the iguanas below to enjoy. The sloths’ home was a sanctuary in every sense, with plenty of space for them to live their best sloth lives.

Exploring the Sanctuary

After the sloth feeding, I took a moment to enjoy a refreshing drink. The prices were a bit steep, but the experience was worth every penny. With a cold beverage in hand, I wandered over to the toucan enclosure. These colorful birds were a delight to watch, their playful antics and vibrant plumage adding a splash of color to the morning.

Next, I ventured into the butterfly enclosure, a serene space filled with fluttering wings and delicate beauty. The jaguar enclosure was next on my list, and while I’m not a fan of seeing such majestic creatures behind glass, it was clear that the park was dedicated to providing the best possible care for its residents. The jaguars were impressive, their powerful presence a reminder of the wild beauty of Costa Rica.

A Walk to the Beach

As the morning turned to afternoon, I made my way back towards the sloth area to visit the monkeys. The Howler monkeys, free to roam the park, were a highlight. Their playful nature and curious eyes made for an unforgettable encounter. I also caught a glimpse of the park’s crocodiles and turtles, though I must admit, the reptiles aren’t my favorite.

With the sun high in the sky, I decided to take the short walk from the Animal Sanctuary to the beach shared with the Riu properties. The path was a quick four-minute stroll, leading me to the golden sands and inviting waves. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with wildlife and wonder. As I sat on the beach, watching the waves roll in, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and enriching adventure.