Guatemalan Volcano!

This morning we awoke in our monastery, had breakfast, and were off to the most active volcano in Guatemala. We were told the "hike" up would be about 1.5 hours. I was excited for the exercise and the challenge of climbing an active volcano. My first hint that things were not exactly how they had been described came as several men with horses followed us up a steep incline, constantly asking us if we were ready to ride a horse yet... It felt almost as if we were going to be trampled by these horses that were following us closely behind, but our tour leader Bryan eventually told them to stop following us. Shortly thereafter, we came to a crossroads. Our guide told us that of the two paths, one was much easier, but the other had the better view and more things to see. Part of the group went up the easier path, and I, against my better judgment went up the more difficult path. I had several doubts about the decision, and only agreed once I had ascertained that after 15 very difficult minutes of climbing, the rest of the way would be a cakewalk. So, I decided to go up the difficult route in order to take some pictures of what was promised to be some spectacular vistas. Of course, what would have been 15 minutes of difficult climbing turned into an hour and a half die to the fact that we veered off the main path and were soon climbing a vertical face of the cliff with loose volcanic rocks underfoot... After what seemed an eternity, we reached the top and I did get a few photos of the volcano spewing steam.










We followed the trail into a cave that was SO hot with geothermal activity that I didn't take pictures and didn't stat in long because I was so afraid that the heat would damage my camera and lenses. After an eternity, we eventually made our way back down the volcano. It was worth the trip, but my god, my ass and quads are so sore....

We made our way back to our hotel and had a nice swim and relaxing afternoon in the jacuzzi, and after that I had a small siesta (the frozen margaritas I had in the jacuzzi helped...) and then this evening we went out for an amazing meal at. Local restaurant! I ate so much, but it was so good and I figure after such an active day today, I had earned it! Tomorrow we will have a walking tour of Antigua, a shopping afternoon, and then our farewell dinner, as the following day will be some people's last day here. Should be a good day!


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Location:Guatemala