The day begins with a bumpy tractor tow ride. We pass the mini super and take the fork in the road to Las Cabañas Los Quetzales. As we climb, the road turns to rocks. We bounce and lurch and slide, all grateful for the extra bars to right ourselves and grasp our hands around.
We reach the site of the Cabañas with all parts and possessions intact, stroll past the pools up the trail steps to the cabins. Our guide Abel outfits the crew with rubber boots and fills the hummingbird feeders with nectar. Already the tiny birds are swarming and buzzing. They fight for position, they dive, they flutter, they zip inches from our ears and eyes. The energy is captivating, the magical mid-air dance is hypnotizing. We are lured away with promises of other interesting animals and sights. Las Mina trail is chosen for ease to accommodate the entire crew.
We stay alert for replies to the bird sounds as Abel calls to them. We keep our eyes peeled for a Quetzal but one does not appear. We follow the trail of a large Tapir revealed to us by its muddy tracks. We listen to tales of adventure and exploration while we squish through the mud and hop over tree roots. We learn about the variety of local animals and get excited at the prospect of seeing them.
Our hike ends at a waterfall where I become enchanted with a Dr. Seuss like plant reaching across my view of the rocks and the water. Abel points to the birds we have seen on our walk, not perfectly visible to the amateur or mere bird admirer, but certain to his keen ears and eyesight.
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and in keeping with my tradition, I will be running up a mountain. This year that mountain trail will be another trail close to Los Quetzales Eco Lodge. The Los Quetzales trail travels from Cerro Punta through Baru Volcano National Park and ends at the town of Boquete. Enjoy your Pre Thanksgiving Hike this year!
There is beauty all around you, look in, look out and follow the light! ~Louise