Racing down an active volcano on a surfboard may sound like madness
but for thrill-seeking sports fanatics, ‘Volcano Boarding’ is the only
way to get your kicks.
Here at the foothills of Nicaragua’s Cerro Negro mountain, adrenaline
junkies, travellers and the insanely curious climb the 726 metres to
enjoy the latest sporting craze.
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Surfers, dressed in protective jump suits, knee-pads and helmets, can
reach speeds of up to 80 km/h (50mph) on their specially-constructed
plywood boards.
Phillip Southan, owner and manager of Bigfoot Hostel and Green
Pathways Tours, says the unique trip is a world first.
“We started offering this trip on 2005 and its has become so popular,”
says the 26-year-old from Barbados.
“This is a unique tour as nowhere else in the world can you board down
an active volcano.
“What we offer is a tour for everyone with absolutely no experience
necessary. One of the greatest attractions of the tour is that you get
a bit of everything.
“Nicaraguan rural culture, hiking, amazing views, walking in an active
volcano and then of course the high adrenaline boarding down the
volcano.”
Despite only starting the unique tour four years ago, ‘Volcano
Boarding’ has attracted over 10,000 participants.
“This is the fourth year and to date we have taken over 10,000 people
on this tour,” says Phillip.
“It is a 45 minute hike of easy to moderate difficulty.
“Once you complete the 45-minutes around the back of the volcano to
its summit, surfers can enjoy the amazing views and the experience
being close to an active volcano.
“After a training session its a 500 metre descent down the volcano.”
Standing at 726 metres, Cerro Negro is Central America’s youngest
volcano.
Born in April 1850 it has been one of the most active volcanoes in
Nicaragua, last erupting 1999 – the 20th time in its history.
Yet despite its unstable reputation, Phillip insists that all safety
precautions are taken and considered.
“The volcano is very active,” admits Phillip.
“When you are on top you will have the opportunity to walk in to the
crater up close with a smoking volcano.
“But the biggest risk is the risk is getting some scratches if you
fall off.
“Many years of experience has taken this tour to a level where it is
safe but still fun and for some people a little scary.
“We are always working on ways to continue improving it for the future.”
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