THE RAINFOREST
AN INTIMATE ENCOUNTER WITH NATURE
As the world savages its
forests at an alarming rate, Costa Rica stands proud among
nations for an ever-evolving network of national parks and
wildlife reserves created 30 years ago. Tourists overwhelmed by
this country's diversity of forests such as rain, cloud, dry or
mangrove, might have time to visit only one variety on a
restricted schedule. The choice doesn´t matter, but remember, if you haven´t seen a rainforest, you haven't seen Costa Rica.
With the aid of a guide to explain
nature's curious ways, the rainforest can be an exquisite
experience. It needn't involve a rugged trek or swinging through
the trees like Tarzan in a harness, unless that's the desired
choice. Some of Costa Rica's smaller reserves offer easy paths
through friendly jungle with little uphill climbing. Come along
with me as I revive the memory of one unforgettable morning.
Our trail follows a thrashing stream
through a forest green-so-green it stings the eye. Even the sky
is green here, covered by a lattice-work of leaves from mammoth
trees, admitting the sun in shivering patterns. A wooden foot-bridge
adds charm along the way to a natural spa where the water, rich
with oxygen, works restorative wonders. All around can be heard
the voice of this mysterious civilization, its cries and songs.
Continuing through
the dense vegetation, we become acquainted with the denizens of
the forest. The guide plays match-maker, arranging each intimate
encounter with nature. A bat is caught napping inside a large
frond converted to a tent. Ants have set up suburbia on the
Acacia plant to raise their young on its sap, and in turn, will
protect the plant from its enemies. Two birds listen from the
branches to the guide's description of their importance, while a
miniature frog struts onto the path anticipating his turn.
Tap a tiny leaf-cluster
with the fingers and it bends downward, sensing drops of rain to
convey to the soil. Alongside, the green teak-frond bleeds
crimson to the touch, 
releasing its
oils. At last, one understands. Nature is more than pretty
scenery. It lives, it vibrates with ideas to sustain existence in
a magnificent, symbiotic design, where we too are beneficiaries.
This is a sacred place, a source of beauty, knowledge and
inspiration, yet mankind remains intent upon destroying the
rainforests at the rate of 100 acres every minute.
The rain begins -
not in timid splashes, but beating like a relentless drum-roll.
We stand there drenched, happy to partake of this communal drink
with the forest. In the aftermath, a loamy scent pervades the
atmosphere, and the vegetation preens.
If a rainforest can't be on your itinerary this year, take heart - it will still be here for some future visit, along with the other reserves and parklands. Costa Rica, dedicated to preserving the ecology, promises you that. With time, the rest of our globe may catch on to the idea. If there is time.
all photos by
Patricia Martin.
(click on each photo to enlarge)