Cerro Negro!

After the tension of the earthquakes and volcanoes' activities, we finally have a concrete date for the Cerro Negro trip! You better recover quickly from Pitbull's concert because almost right away, on September the 30th (Sunday), is the trip in the morning.

If you have never been to Cerro Negro, I think it might be useful to know a little bit more about it or at least see some pictures of where you are going to! 

So, here I leave you some pictures, some interesting information I found, and a link to a page with more info, videos, and reviews of the Cerro Negro Adventure ;) 

 Description 

The Cerro Negro is a young and unique volcano with steep black slopes which lack vegetation. On and around the volcano, lies a big layer of volcanic ash and rocks. An eruption in 1999, left a wide border of black volcanic material and two smaller craters right next to the Cerro Negro which were recently formed.

No other volcano climing experience can compare to Cerro Negro. The volcano is only about 500 meters high (675 meters above sea level), but the ascent is steep and tough. There is no paved trail; just a merely natural path along a rim that leads to the top. The ascent takes about one hour to the top, and although it requires some effort, the superb views are certainly rewarding. The absence of trees provides fantastic scenery, and upon reaching the top visitors have a 360 degree view of the area.

The crater – often emitting smoke and gas – can be observed from above, and the crater rim leads to the other side where the imposing volcanic chain can be seen with several volcanoes (including the Telica and San Cristóbal) lined up one after another. You will enjoy the view before starting the descent. This is a whole other adventure by itself.

One of the volcano’s slopes is too steep to climb – but consequently great for a fast descent! Instead of large rocks this side only has volcanic sand, providing a great surface for running downhill. This thrilling experience takes less than ten minutes before reaching the bottom, but for the less athletic hikers it is also possible to walk more slowly while again enjoying the superb views. Alternatively, experienced snow- or sandboarders can use a wooden board to go downhill, much like snowboarding down a mountain but now on a volcanic slope! One way or another, Cerro Negro provides a unique and intense experience that can be enjoyed by anybody in a fair shape. 

Practical Information 
The most important difficulties are the heat and intense sun. Be sure to bring enough water and sunscreen, but most importantly plan this trip as early on the day as possible. Travel around sunrise to climb the volcano when it is still warming up. It is furthermore useful to bring good clothing: a pair of pants and solid hiking shoes or boots to provide protection against the sharp volcanic rocks. 

Read more from the source: http://vianica.com/attraction/7/cerro-negro-volcano 

There are still some spots available! 
(Find more info here: http://www.facebook.com/uamglobal)

-Itzel Arróliga G.