Once the classes arrived, the guides each took a different group around the gardens, to the laboratory, and into the butterfly dome.

"Climbing to the top of the dome was really cool; you could see all the way to the city," according to Juan Carlos Laguna. Blue morpho butterflies were the main attraction in the dome, and the guides explained about the different species of butterflies that are found in this part of the world. Back in the laboratory, the students learned how butterflies grow from the egg stage, into larvae, then a caterpillar until they finally hatch out of the cocoon as a butterfly. Another attraction in the laboratory was the tarantulas that some students were able to hold.

After exploring the educational aspects of the trip, it was time for some physical exercise! The Mariposario has walking trails, natural pools, a lagoon and a soccer field. By far the most fun thing to do during the trip was kayaking on the lagoon in a one- or two- person kayak.

"It was my first time trying kayaking and I didn’t know that it would take so much strength to do," said Tae Ho Cho. For many students, going out in the kayaks was a first time experience. After a lunch of hamburgers and French fries, the students had to head back to SCCS.

" The worst part of the trip was when we had to leave!" exclaimed Santiago Paz.

All in all, the students had a great experience at the Butterfly Gardens. "We were able to experience nature and find out about our beautiful department and the Santa Cruz area," said Estefenia Sauto.

More Pictures

Write your own SCCS Upate!