Mangroves

What are they? : They are the areas where the fresh water meets  the ocean water, usually in the outlet of rivers. The vegetation here is well adapted to the constant floods caused by the growth of the rivers and the oceanic tides. The mangrove tree is an interesting tree that looks as if it’s mostly roots that elevate the main part of the tree out of the water. This creates a unique environment for all kinds of creatures.

What to do: In the mangroves, the fish are plentiful since the marine fish swim up the river to search for food among the sediments brought down by the river. You will also be able to see many species of birds, as the area is rich in trees with flowers and fruit, which they love to feed on. The most common species of birds are: the white ibis, the kingfisher, eagles, pelicans, frigates and others. The mammals are also plentiful in the area. Frequently seen are White Face Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys and many others. Among the reptiles that can be observed are the small boa constrictors and the young crocodiles (approximately 2 feet).

In the Drake Bay area, the best hotel is Drake Bay Resort. Phone: (506) 770- 8012, www.DrakeBay.Com or at Corcovado Explorations, they offer alot of activities: Phone: (506) 818-9962. www.CorcovadoExpeditions.net

IF you would like to visit the mangroves at the mouth of the Rio Térraba, leave the port of Coopemangle, 6 kilometers south of the Hotel Villages Gaia, near Playa Tortuga.
You can find someone with a boat to take you into the mangroves for about $30 for around 2 ½ hours. You can also rent kayaks to take a peaceful trip without the sound of a motor. This will cost about $45 (two people to a kayak) and we recommend you leave about an hour before high tide so you will not have to paddle against the tide.

Notice: Tours to the mangroves should be reserved 24 hours in advance, as their schedules change depending on the tides.

What should I take? : Don't forget a camera as you will see many birds, animals and reptiles to photograph. Also take insect repellent, binoculars, fishing line, guide or map, and drinking water. On the tours in a boat, life vests are provided for those who might prefer to use them but the water is very calm and there are no dangerous currents.

Some years ago, the mangroves were considered by some to be of little value, but later investigations demonstrated their high ecological value in regards to its great biodiversity, and in these areas you can will be able to appreciate the interesting vegetation that thrives in this unique environment, where the sea joins with fresh water from the rivers. The mangroves of the Térraba- Sierpe,  are part of the Reservation of the Wetlands Terraba–Sierpe,  among the most popular. These are the biggest in Central America, covering an area of almost 22,000 hectares.

The mangroves are rich in mineral and organic nutrients carried down by the river and then settling at different levels of the riverbed due to the constant floods caused by the tides, ensuring that the foods are consistently distributed. The stability of the mangroves is vital for the maintenance of the marine ecosystems that depend on them.
The mangroves and lagoons are birthing places for numerous species of marine fauna. Just a quick look in the waters will allow one to see the abundance and variety of life in them. You will be able to observe several types of crabs, hermits crabs, oysters, and shrimp. You will surely enjoy watching how these little creatures live, such as the crabs that live in the mangrove trees, waiting for prey to go by. Fishing can also be enjoyed here in the Mangrove zone.

 Coopemangle, is a group project of 13 families, who organize tours and provide guides. Their project consists of some 200 hectares and seeks to preserve the mangroves of the Reservation of the Wetlands Terraba–Sierpe, and is overseen by the Ministry of Resources Natural Energy and Mines (MINAE). It is the only project of it's kind in Costa Rica. Instead of encouraging the cutting of mangrove trees to use for cooking, they are working with an ecotourism project to preserve the mangroves and return any profits back into the natural wealth of the area.

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