Raleigh Blog – Alpha 1: The Corcovado Trek
Alpha 1: The Corcovado Trek
By Phoebe Strawson
Photos by Floris Baas
The united Alpha 1 arrived at Progresso eager and willing to begin the 250km trek stretching from the Panama boarder across mountain ranges, treacherous jungle and tropical beaches to reach the breathtaking Corcovado National Park.
The trek began in high spirits whilst the enormity the challenge had yet to dawn on them. The group would be confronted with numerous challenges along the way that would test them all both physically and emotionally. Over the first few days Alpha 1 struggled to acclimatise to the high temperatures, walking with heavy backpacks and treating blistered feet. Relieved and rewarded upon arriving at Aguas Calientes we enjoyed lunch and relaxing in the hot springs – despite a thundering rain storm!
Over the next few days the progress of the group became evident with each individual day leader tackling the difficulties of navigating with outdated Costa Rican ‘maps’ which showed neither roads, paths or towns. As we entered the mountain phase of the trek the group morale was high. Unfortunately falling a day behind we seemed to run into problems. Ranging from the guides useless directions, resulting in us being lost in the jungle, to various injuries and illnesses and mysterious disappearing paths. Despite all the odds being against us, a big team effort involving back bearings, recce groups and just pure guess work enabled the entire team to summit at 1000m and conquer Cerra Pelon.
After almost two weeks of tackling mountains, rivers, jungles, waterfalls and mosquito bites we made it to Los Patos – the gate way to Corcovado National Park!
From this point we knew the end was in sight and were eager to reach the irresistible beaches of Corcovado. Spotting some fantastic wildlife on the way including spider monkeys, anteaters and racoons we reached our final destination of Porto Carbanara enjoying our well earned rest on the beach. Bring on the next phase!
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