A Warm Welcome to the Jungle

As a seasoned surfer, I’ve spent countless hours riding the waves of Central America, but this time, I decided to trade my surfboard for a saddle. My wife and I found ourselves in Garabito, Costa Rica, ready to embark on a horseback riding adventure through the lush rainforest at The Park at Ocean Ranch. The promise of a 180-foot waterfall and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat was too tempting to resist.

Our guide, Lomar, greeted us with a smile that could light up the darkest jungle. His laid-back Jamaican humor had us laughing before we even mounted our horses. It was just the two of us and a fellow traveler from San Francisco, making it feel like a private tour. Lomar’s easy-going nature and expert guidance made us feel like old friends, and he quickly taught us the basics of horseback riding. My horse, Brownie, was a gentle soul, and with Lomar’s encouragement, I even got to experience the thrill of a gallop up a hill.

Discovering Nature’s Secrets

The ride through the jungle was nothing short of magical. As we trotted along the river valley, Lomar pointed out fascinating plants and shared stories of their uses by indigenous people. One plant produced a red oil used as paint, another smelled just like Bengay, and yet another created smoke when shaken. It was like stepping into a world where nature’s secrets were revealed at every turn.

The jungle was alive with the sounds of toucans and macaws, and we even caught a glimpse of white-faced monkeys swinging through the trees. The cool shade of the jungle provided a welcome respite from the sun, and the towering trees and vibrant foliage made it feel like we were in a scene from Jurassic Park.

A Picture-Perfect Moment

As we approached the waterfall, the sound of cascading water grew louder, and the anticipation built. Lomar, ever the expert with an iPhone, captured the moment perfectly with a slow-motion video of us in front of the waterfall. It was a memory frozen in time, a reminder of the beauty and adventure that Costa Rica has to offer.

The tour ended with a refreshing slice of pineapple and a cool drink at the Rancho, where we kicked off our shoes and soaked in the breathtaking surroundings. Even Lassie, the adorable dog who accompanied us on the journey, seemed to enjoy the moment.

Reflecting on the experience, I realized that it wasn’t just the stunning scenery or the thrill of riding that made this adventure unforgettable. It was the people, the laughter, and the shared moments that made it truly special. As I write this, my legs are sore, but my heart is full, and I can’t help but smile at the thought of our next adventure.