After calling home for Christmas, Ruth and I decided to go off and climb a volcano. It was an hour drive, then a 3.5 km hike through jungle up to the crater. The final pitch was covered in loose rocks that slide backwards with each step, and embed themselves in your shoes. The hipster girl on our trip wearing leggings was poorly equipped. Actually reaching the lava flow, we stepped gingerly off the loose rock onto still cooling magma. The sight of a melted sneaker sole was a deterrent against venturing too far from our guide. However, some dudes showed their machismo by lighting a cigarette from lava plucked from the flow. Perhaps the second most dangerous thing I can think of doing. After the incredible sunset, we stumbled down in the dark, thankful for Hannah’s warning to bring flashlights. Feliz navidad.

Ruth ascending
Triumphant
Lava!
Anyone got a light?
Danger