The Travel Chica

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Kayaking between volcanoes

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Kayaking is one of my favorite travel activities.

It’s a way to get some exercise while seeing a place from a different perspective.  When I discovered that I could kayak between the two volcanoes on the island of Ometepe, I made this a top priority.

Rio Istián

Rio Istián is a small estuary that meanders inland from Lake Nicaragua through part of the isthmus connecting Ometepe’s two volcanoes.

You get great views of the volcanoes and a lot of exercise (depending on how much work you make your guide do) while you paddle to and from the estuary.  Lake Nicaragua can have quite a current.

 

I knew from my research that one of the big draws of Rio Istián is the plentiful birds. I am not that into birds, but these were so beautiful and unlike any I had ever seen.

 

 

I have no clue what types of birds these are, but my guide Noldan could name them all.

 

 

These gnarly tree roots reaching up above the water show where the water was much higher not too long ago.

The water is very still, and the surroundings are peaceful. But I was always slightly on edge because caimans also inhabit the estuary. While caimans are smaller and less aggressive than crocodiles, it still made me nervous.

I really wanted to see one. From a distance close enough to get a good photo…. but not too close.

They are so hard to find. I would have probably kayaked right into one without seeing it, but Noldan could always spot them and moved us close for a great photo.

One of Noldan’s most incredible “sightings” was these bats. They blend in so well with the tree. He had us just a few feet away, and I was still saying, “Where? What are you talking about?”

Look closely. It is as if they are staring right at the camera.

 

This tour would be incredible at sunset.  When Noldan and I made our way back to shore, he indulged my photography requests.  While I could have stayed here to have dinner and watch the sunset, I decided to head back to my natural paradise up on the volcano.

Comments

  3. I’m just amazed! I’ve been reading few travel blogs but I have to say this blog is just something I have to share with my friends. Beautiful selection of pictures, definitely worth to be seen. Well done and thank you for sharing.

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