Day 98 - Exploring a Volcano

(Ursula) The activity planned for today is to see a volcano up close. Wolfgang & Barbara thought it was too risky and decided to visit a weaver village instead.

The risky thing was not the volcano but parking and leaving the car unattended at the village where the trail begins. We heard rumors about a camper that was broken into and robbed.

Risky or not, we are in Guatemala and didn’t want to miss this opportunity.

When we arrived at the village, Heinz parked the camper in the middle of the village square, clearly visible from all angles. Soon a group of young boys came running up to us. One of them seemed to be their leader. Heinz handed him 10 Pesos for guarding the camper while we were gone and promised him an additional 20 Pesos when we returned and found everything in good order.

The terrain was pretty steep. Halfway up the volcano, we met a guide with a mule who offered to take us to a point where we could observe the volcanic action. We watched from a distance as red-hot lava squeezed out from the side of the volcano and slid down the slope, smoking. Even from hundreds of yards away, we could feel the tremendous heat. Watching it was imposing, and we could imagine what was happening deep inside.

We took a shortcut and slid down a steep volcanic slope on the way back. That was great fun! But our shoes, socks (and feet) will need a thorough cleaning tonight!

Meanwhile, the camper had been well guarded by the boys, as Heinz predicted. They were thrilled with the extra 20 Pesos.

Then we sat down for a cold drink and something to eat at the restaurant on the square. The owners had a bunch of cute little kittens we fell in love with. To make a long story short, we drove home with one frightened little creature. I converted my shopping basket into a cat bed where he slumbers comfortably. We named him Büsi.

That same evening, Wally attempted to pack his suitcase for Vancouver, but then he changed his mind and decided to continue traveling with us.

We can only imagine how torn up he must be over his love for Johanna.

Stats: Miles 24, Expenses $11.50Baca lagi