Tuesday 5 February 2013
Highlights: Outsmarted by monkeys, enjoyable 1.5 hour hike to magnificent waterfall, relaxing Hot Springs.
It’s not often that I learn that monkeys are both smarter and more devious than me.
For a total cost of $52.50 I had booked two events today; a 3 hour return hike to a waterfall and, a visit to a local hot spring. First up was the hike which Mike, Bo, Ivan, Esther, Laura, Robin, James, Lisa and myself decided on. The hike is for the most part a gentle 1.5 hour climb. During the hike you look out for monkeys, birds and plant life. One highlight on the way up was the Tarzan swing of strong tree vines. Our fearless Tour Leader Lisa lead the way!
The waterfall started from a major height even if not a lot of water was running down it. Although both James and Lisa, who stood under the waterfall and got drenched, might disagree about the amount of water.
Lisa had bought a watermelon and a pineapple for us to snack upon at the waterfall, a very thoughtful Chief Experience Officer. Lisa somehow managed to balance the watermelon on her head while extremely wet. No one fell during the hike despite the slippery conditions although I did try my best to slip up and become the centre of attention.
In the afternoon a smaller group, this time James, Robin, Mike, Bo, Ivan and myself joined the Hot Spring activity. James bought his eskie and both Robin and James were set for beers. Their only problem was the 15 or so minutes walking to the hot springs with the heavy load. There were two very hot natural springs I was only able to relax in the coldest one which was about 30-40 degrees.
Our activity guide warned us about a local monkey that liked to steal items and play with them and that we should keep everything in our daypacks. I followed his advise to a point. When exiting the first hot spring I put down my Gatorade suddenly a monkey run up and distracted me while his friend who i didn’t original see took off with my drink only stopping to open the lid and drink the entire contents. He looked at me in jest and I think thanks. I had been defeated by a monkey and my tour members couldn’t stop laughing.
Pride hurt I went down to the river to cool off and reflect on being outwitted by monkeys and suffering without a drink in an area that was very hot. James did come to the rescue with a bottle of water fortunately which was probably payment for giving everyone such a good laugh.
That evening I joined Lisa and Rebecca for dinner and I got to enjoy and evening with two charming ladies and in particular enjoyed discussing with Lisa about her experiences and world view. A great day that showed my that some animals are very smart and devious.
Waterfall at Boquete
Nathan's Insights 