Mornings in the jungle aren’t your typical “rise and shine” affair.
Here at Geckoes Lodge, the sun seems to hit the snooze button more than we do. And believe me — that’s not an easy thing to do. 😄
A tropical day doesn’t burst forth with blinding light; instead, it tiptoes in, as if not to disturb the slumbering sloths. Unlike what you might expect, the forest symphony starts not with the sweet songs of chirping birds, but with the deep, resonant growl of a howler monkey. Or two, or three — depending on your luck. It’s less “good morning” and more “wake the **** up, world!” Followed by a rustling in the palm fronds — probably just the wind, or perhaps a squirrel with a caffeine addiction — and the occasional bird call that sounds suspiciously like a ringtone.
You shuffle to the terrace, coffee in hand, and plant your bare feet on the cool wooden floor.
The air is a cocktail of damp earth, mango leaves, and a whisper of ocean breeze. It’s the kind of air that makes you feel alive and slightly in need of a shower.
The jungle isn’t loud, but it’s not exactly quiet either. It’s like living in a nature documentary where the animals have a bizarre sense of timing and humour. A hummingbird zips by, looking like it’s late for a very important date. A blue morpho butterfly flutters past, its wings flashing like a disco ball at a retirement party. And for a moment, you just stand there, coffee in hand, embracing the chaos and calm in equal measure.
Here, mornings don’t come with deadlines or agendas. The day doesn’t demand to be seized; it simply unfolds, one amusing (and at times, slightly unsettling) animal encounter at a time. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to start the day is by doing absolutely nothing – except maybe chuckling at the antics of your jungle neighbors.
Geckoes Lodge is full of small magic moments like this. Come find yours.