Ah, Costa Rica. True to its reputation, the land of Pura Vida did not fail to impress. For three weeks we basked in the warm waters, surfed the waves, hiked the jungles, ooohed and ahhed at the amazing flora and fauna, and drove some epic roads, including several river crossings.
Where the road appears to end…
After an easy four-hour crossing of Honduras we entered a beautiful cowboy region of Nicaragua. Despite the very frequent stops by traffic police and one half-hearted bribe attempt, we enjoyed our time exploring jungle-covered volcanoes, watching talented surfers tackle big waves, playing disc golf in one of the few courses in Central America, and celebrating the 4th of July with overlanding friends.
Volcán Concepción from Finca Magdalena.
Today we are celebrating two very special birthdays. One is Emily’s grandfather, who has always been so loving and supportive, and is probably out playing a great round of golf today. Fore! The other birthday is our beloved Hobie, who has been Emily’s faithful companion since he was seven weeks old. Today Hobie turns 11, and despite the gray chin, fat lumps, and occasional achy joints, he’s still a playful puppy who just wants to be chased with his stick. This morning we took Hobie hiking straight up the side of Volcán Maderas on Isla Ometepe in Lake Nicaragua. He charged through the jungle like a champ, jumping up the slippery rocks and roots, and only occasionally being terrified by a lizard or particularly threatening leaf.
Happy Birthday Grampy and Hobie!
Fat little Hobie at about two months old.
Hobie and Tim this morning on our hike up Volcán Maderas on Isla Ometepe in Lago Nicaragua.
We tend to make travel plans only a few days ahead of time. We like the freedom and sense of adventure that comes with an open itinerary. Thus, somewhat intimidated by the very high crime statistics, we weren’t sure whether we were going to even set foot in El Salvador until a day or two before we crossed the border. It turns out that our ten days in the smallest country in Central America were full of beautiful scenery, delicious food, and incredibly kind and generous people. El Salvador delighted us with mounds of delicious pupusas, a VW parade through the capitol city, and wonderful new friends.
Caravana por el Día Mundial del Escarabajo