Day 6 - Wading in Waterfalls

Getting up at 5:00 a.m is never enjoyable, but it was made even worse by multiple alarms all going off at different times. However, it was made worth it by a quick breakfast of pancakes and eggs, before rushing off to Rincon de la Vieja, in the Santa Maria sector.

The day started off with surprisingly clear blue skies, something we have rarely seen all trip. Our trail guide, Freddy, was very knowledgeable; he was able to find many creatures and plants, and every hole in the ground, sharing fascinating information along the way. The biodiversity in the forest was something that we haven't seen before in our hikes back home. On our way to the hot springs, we saw many bugs, birds, and reptiles that we definitely have not seen before. Thanks to the sulfur in the springs, we all smelled like eggs for the rest of the day. Even with the the stench of eggs in the air, we still managed to enjoy ourselves. 

 After sitting around in mineral rich water, we got out and started our hike back. Before officially starting our bus ride back, we took a break in one of the beautiful waterfalls. It was quite the challenge to even get in the water, due to the steep decline, mud, and slippery rocks. Once we managed to get into the water, it was the exact opposite of a hot spring. The water was so cold it was hard to even wade in past your knees. Once it started to rain, we rushed out and made our way back, slipping and sliding in the mud to our buses. 

After getting back an hour later than we planned, we resumed working on our projects, only to be stopped again a few hours later for diner. After eating a delicious meal of pork, vegetables, and yucca, we celebrated our friend, Jean-Luc's19th birthday! Directly after that, we went straight back to our experiments and research, which officially ended our day. 

Buenos noches!

-Rhys and Chloe

 (Chilling in the hot springs after our exhausting hike)

 (A toucan spotted at Finca La Anita)

 (Some of our more courageous students braving the freezing water falls)

(A surprise birthday cake for our birthday boy, Jean-Luc, celebrating his 19th!)