A "Water Day" in Arenal

Volcán Arenal, always impressive

This morning our students stepped out of their "cabinitas" to the ever-impressive site of Volcán Arenal. Although Arenal does not have the orange glow of lava it did just months ago, it's classic volcano shape and steadily steaming peak make it the distinguishing feature of this area. We were constantly reminded of the geological importance of Arenal as we enjoyed what our guides called a "water day". Although Ms. Cuffee's group (bus 1) had a slightly different order of events, we both enjoyed the same activities today: a waterfall hike, exploring the town of La Fortuna, Kayaking in Lake Arenal, and ending the day by relaxing in hot springs!

Prioritizing provisions

La Fortuna Cascada - our waterfall hike allowed students the opportunity to swim at the foot of the powerful La Fortuna Cascada (waterfall). Protected by the local community rather than a national park, this waterfall and its surrounding forrest is another example of small communities working to preserve their natural resources for economic gains. A small fee is charged to hike the ~500 steps to the waterfall's base and these funds support local schools, roads, and government. Our students were less interested in this than I'd hoped, but they did rock hopping, swimming in the river's frigid waters, and running from (or chasing) fish. We all survived the hike back to the bus and it was off to the next stop. I don't have any pictures of the waterfall, but will make sure to post video when we get back.

Touring La Fortuna

The Town of La Fortuna - After an eruption devastated the original town of Arenal in 1967, its citizens moved the town to the upwind side of the volcano and renamed the town in recognition of their "fortune" for surviving. Today, the town is the region's tourism center with countless opportunities for tours and adventures. Our students practiced their Spanish by learning (more) about coffee, buying ice cream, and picking up necessities at the supermarket and pizza shop.

Learning about the red-brown color of quality coffee... no more instant coffee for us!

Kayaking - A hearty lunch of beans, rice, and plantains proved invaluable as our group ventured across Lake Arenal. Lake Arenal was significantly expanded by the construction of a dam and provides a large portion of Costa Rica's energy needs. According to our guide Freddy, hydroelectric power provides 80% of the nation's electricity. Our 8th graders seemed rather nonplused at this incredible feat of civil engineering, but they did enjoy exploring the lake and taking every opportunity to tip their friends' boats.

This group went out before us, but you can imagine it's us, right?

Baldi Hot Springs - As if we weren't wet enough, our day ended at Baldi Hot Springs. When I first heard about this stop, I imagined a pristine swimming hole surrounded by jungle and protected by its inaccessibility. However, Baldi is more of a resort than a refuge. With a gift shop, several restaurants, and dozens of pools, this attraction is luxurious and comfortable; a perfect way to end our day in the water.

Our eagle-eyed bus driver spotted this sloth friend!

Tomorrow we are on our way to Monteverde! This is our most remote destination, so please excuse lapses in communication, but know that we are having a wonderful time hiking the cloud forrest, horseback riding, and zip lining!

Hasta la próxima ves!