Costa Rica Has a New Nature Trail

Costa Rica is determined to show the world that the wet season isn't always a bad thing. 

Costa Rica's first "Fungi Trail," co-created by Oropopo Experience and Funga Conservation, debuted on May 28. The trail's goal is to enable visitors learn about and appreciate mushrooms, one of nature's most fascinating gifts. 

"Mycophobia" has long been an issue in Costa Rica. In a statement given to Travel + Leisure, Luis Francisco Ledezma, founder of Funga Conservation, explained that, up until now, humans have been both scared of and ignorant of the variety of wild fungi that exist in our environment. "Our objective is to start changing that mindset, little by little." 

The team's goal in creating the path was to raise awareness about the plight of these small but significant ecosystem components and encourage responsible and sustainable tourism as a means to protect wild mushrooms locally. The crew isn't only focused on the mushrooms; they're also making sure the locals are a part of the tourist experience. 

"For instance, we are working to rescue the knowledge the Indigenous people of Costa Rica [have of these mushrooms] while bringing the public closer to this fascinating kingdom, about which we have so much to learn," said Ledezma. 

The Fungi route crew said in their statement that the route will be most enjoyable during the country's rainiest season. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for locals and visitors alike, since it is also when the country's standard tourist attractions are likely to be less busy. 

Guided investigations on the Fungi Trail are available to tourists from now through December, though events have already started. There are events where you may even go on a hunt and prepare the food you discover. 

In regards to future outings, Bosque del Niño, a one-day hike organized by Oropopo Experience and Funga Conservation on June 25, will delve further into the secrets of a fully grown Central American oak forest and the unique fungus that inhabit it. 

On August 20th and 21st, guests to the La Selva Biological Station can partake in an activity centered on the hunt for mushrooms that provide shelter to spiders and insects. Plus, on August 27 and 28, there's The mushrooms Festival, a free gathering where locals and visitors alike may record Bijagua's mushrooms. 

If you want to learn more about the Fungi Trail and all the activities happening this year, you may check out the social media pages of the two organizations.