Our night time walk through the Monteverde Cloud Forest was both thrilling and fascinating. As darkness settled in, we were a bit wary of what creatures we might encounter. Our guide, Andre, a seasoned birder with 18 years of experience, shared interesting stories along the way. One of the highlights was learning about the Highland Tinamou, a genderless bird that prefers staying on the ground, using its camoflauge for protection. The forest was enchanting at night, with the trees casting eerie shadows and the sounds of nocturnal life stirring around us. Andre's ability to spot wildlife in the dark was remarkable. He had an uncanny sense of where to look, often pointing up into the canopy, where many of the animals were hiding. It was an unforgettable experience that opened my eyes to hidden life in the forest after dark.

Exploring Río Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park was like stepping into a hidden paradise. Known as one of Costa Rica's best kept-secrets, the river's striking sky-blue color is a natural wonder. We were fortunate to visit on a sunny day, as the unique blue hue can disappear after heavy rains. The color is created by aluminosilicate particles suspended in the water, reflecting sunlight in only the blue spectrum. The effect is absolutely breathtaking. We hiked for about four hours along a trail that followed the river, passing by the famous Río Celeste waterfall, where swimming is no longer allowed due to its powerful currents. Along the way, our guide, Mou, pointed out wildlife, including a howler monkey, whose deep call can be heard for miles, despite their plant-based diet. Mou also introduced us to the magical spot called Los Tenidores, where two colorless rivers merge and suddenly turn blue. Local lore says this is where God washed his brushes after painting the sky - a fitting description for such a stunning place.