Hiking Nicaragua is something I hope to do quite a bit more of. The natural landscapes are inescapable here, and there are some truly unique sites to behold. One of my Nicaragua guide books possesses the following subtitle: "World Class Views For Three Dollars a Day." There's certainly a great deal of solace that can be found in nature after a long week of work.
This weekend, a couple of interns and I went to the town of Masatepe to visit the an ecotourism center named Flor de Pochote. Flor de Pochote is situated about 5 kilometers outside Masatepe on the rim of the Laguna de Masaya.
Flor de Pochote is run by a Danish Nicaraguan family that are focused on preserving the natural beauty of their finca, while also providing economic benefits to their community. On their own land they grow a number of different trees, vegetables and fruits, make their own wine, raise their own animals, and also serve as a natural preserve for some of Nicaragua's most diverse bird species.
In addition to their focus on nature, the views were amazing. We hiked up a lava flow that now serves as a river bed, and go to stand at the top of a waterfall. The cabins on the land all have views of the laguna, and can be rented for just $20 a night. A truly unique spot.
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| The only sign distinguishing Flor de Pochote from the forest that surrounds it |
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| The driveway |
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| Recycled materials are used all over the finca |
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| Even happy recycled materials |
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| "The Big House" |
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| View from the lunch table |
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| One of many birds of prey we saw today |
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| There were many! |
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| One of the cabins, with cabbage growing out front |
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| Halfway up the falls |
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| Another cabin, entirely made of renewable materials; the base is volcanic rock |
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| Sandino's Seat! |
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| One of many on the property |
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| There are over 25 different kinds of trees on the property, all labeled! |
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| The dried volcanic flow |
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| View from the top of the falls |
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| No survivors |
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| Safety wire for those unlucky enough to fall in |
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| I am sure these too will be recycled |
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| Doesn't get much fresher |
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| Lighted walkway to the cabanas! |
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| A local flower that a wonderful juice named Jamaica is made from |
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| The backyard |
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| The hike's reward, the "best burger in Nicaragua" |
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