My visit to Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica

This October I decided to take a trip to the Pacific side of Costa Rica during the rainy season so that I could experience the abundant wildlife that supposedly comes out during this time of year. I planned my 10 day journey and based it around staying at an eco friendly 5 star hotel in Manuel Antonio called Arena's Del Mar. My trip would consist of various activities that would immerse me in the local culture and focus on getting the see Costa Rica's wildlife in its natural habitat. 
I can honestly say that after returning home back to Northern Minnesota as winter now approaches, I can officially call the trip a huge success. I am glad to have taken the time to explore the Pacific side of Costa Rica and am now back home by the fire as the snow falls outside, reminiscing about my travels. This will be the first of several posts I hope to get up this week about where I went while in Costa Rica and al that I got to see. 
One of the definite highlights of my trip was visiting Manuel Antonio National Park. The park is located minutes from the Arena's Del Mar resort. I could've walked, but I decided to hire an amazing local guide who's name was Ersel. Ersel and I formed a special bond, one I think he naturally forms with all the guests. He is a very personable person and truly understands the wildlife of Costa Rica and can find creatures hidden in the trees I couldn't even begin to imagine would be there. We entered the park, paid the $10 park entrance fee for the day and immediately he spotted a Green Iguanna high up in the tree with his monocular. I have no idea how he did it, I still think he must've planted it up there, but as we progressed through the park, he continued to amaze me at his ability to find animals in each and every crevice.