I climbed a volcano....barely.

6:00AM the alarm sounds. Still half asleep we stagger to breakfast. Two pancakes and a quick cup of coffee - we're off. Two hours by horse and we arrive at our starting point. After the ranger gave a sarcastic "good luck" we began our 8 kilometer trek up Rincón de la Vieja. Within the first 1.5 kilometers I started to worry. My friends sensed my doubt and informed me that quiting was not an option. A few kilometers later (and flatter turf) I found my stride. That was until we reached the last 1.8 kilometers of the hike. Having exited the forest we were climbing make-shift mud stairs (two at a time) in the blistering sun. Looking ahead was murder as the path seemed to keep growing. Luckily my 60+-year-old, cigarette-smoking guide was there to hoist my butt up over the tough spots. A few personal pep-talks and I made it to the top (picture shown).

As we reached the top the massive crater exposed itself. Swirling colors of red and black. As we (carefully) continued along the craters edge the sulfuric pepto-bismol-like blue lagoon widened our eyes. The toxic fumes danced on the surface reminding us that underneath lie a volcano that erupted a mere 13 years earlier.
With the day moving quickly, we packed up and started our decent. After conquering the mud maze we approached a 8ft. drop where the aid of a rope was necessary to jump to the next landing. My jello-like legs failed me and as I attempted to reach the other side. A strong thrust backward almost sent me (as well as our guide) to the dark shadows below. Thankfully, we were able to hold on for the ride. Finally, we made it to the entrance of the forest where a pristine river offered relief (picture shown).

The steadily two hour trek downward (compared to the four hours up) proved we were ready to go home. After reaching the ranger station we had an additional two hour horse-ride. As the sun set over the forest we caught a glimpse of Tucans (picture shown) and white-faced capuchin monkeys. As night fell, we finally returned from our 10.5 hour journey.

The most physically difficult task I have ever completed but one of the most amazing things I have ever done.
Pura Vida.
K