A Stroll Through Puerto Viejo’s Wild Side

The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon as I laced up my sneakers, ready to embark on the Puerto Viejo Walking Tour. As a seasoned surfer, I’ve spent countless hours riding the waves of Central America, but this time, I was trading my board for a pair of binoculars. My wife and I, both lovers of the ocean and its surrounding beauty, were eager to explore the land side of this vibrant coastal town.

Our guide, Lynch, greeted us with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm that set the tone for the day. We started our journey along a coastal path, the salty breeze mingling with the scent of lush greenery. Lynch’s knowledge of the local flora and fauna was impressive, and his stories about the history of Puerto Viejo added a rich layer to our adventure. We learned about the Bribri indigenous people and the pirates who once roamed these shores, their tales woven into the very fabric of the land.

As we walked, Lynch pointed out the various wildlife that called this place home. With his telescope, we were able to see the intricate details of sloths lazily hanging from the trees and howler monkeys swinging through the canopy. It was a refreshing change of pace from the adrenaline-pumping surf sessions I’m used to, and I found myself captivated by the serene beauty of the jungle.

Discovering Hidden Gems

One of the highlights of the tour was reaching a secret viewpoint overlooking the Caribbean Sea and Cocles Island. The panoramic view was nothing short of breathtaking, with the turquoise waters stretching out as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of why I fell in love with this nomadic lifestyle in the first place.

Lynch shared stories of the geological wonders of the area, explaining how the unique rock formations came to be. His passion for the land was evident, and it was contagious. I found myself eager to learn more, to soak in every detail of this beautiful place.

As we stood there, taking in the view, I couldn’t help but think about the waves crashing below. The surf at Playa Cocles is legendary, and while I was itching to get back on my board, I was grateful for this opportunity to see Puerto Viejo from a different perspective. It was a reminder that there’s so much more to these coastal towns than just the surf.

A Perfect Start to a Caribbean Adventure

The tour wrapped up with a leisurely walk back, our eyes peeled for any last glimpses of wildlife. Lynch’s humor and easy-going nature made the entire experience enjoyable, and I couldn’t help but agree with the review I had read before booking: this truly was the perfect introduction to Puerto Viejo.

For anyone planning a trip to this sun-soaked paradise, I highly recommend starting with the Puerto Viejo Walking Tour. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, to learn about the history and wildlife that make this place so unique. And who knows, you might just find yourself falling in love with the land as much as the sea.

As I packed up my gear and prepared to hit the waves once more, I felt a renewed sense of appreciation for the beauty of Puerto Viejo. This walking tour had opened my eyes to a side of the town I hadn’t seen before, and I was grateful for the experience. Until next time, Puerto Viejo, keep those waves rolling and the jungle thriving.