Extreme Nicaragua: Extreme Sport Just Got Crazier
When you think of Nicaragua what is the first thing that comes to mind? For many, it’s the Sandinistas, the left-wing revolutionary party that dominated the political landscape in the last part of the 20th century. For others, it’s images of romantic white sand beaches or lush tropical rainforests. But, did you know that Nicaragua is quickly becoming known as the world’s hottest extreme adventure destination for one of the craziest sports ever imagined?
In fact, adrenaline junkies from all around the globe are discovering that Nicaragua is home to some of the best rushes available, everything from windsurfing to crocodile safaris, extreme diving and mountain biking. However, one sport in particular is gaining worldwide attention…
You’ll never find it in the Olympics. Mothers won’t want their kids to take part in it. And, if you can escape a day of it without cuts, bruises, broken bones, or mild concussions, you’ll be one of the lucky few.
What is this insane sport, you ask? Volcano surfing, of course!
Volcano surfing is quickly becoming the latest craze that extreme sportists are flocking to Nicaragua to experience.
After heaving, huffing, and scrambling up the face of some of the country’s most rugged volcanoes – many of which are still very active, like the popular Cerro Negro – volcano surfers take a few minutes to view the amazing panoramic vistas, say their prayers, and then strap war-torn snowboards to their feet and hurl themselves right down the volcano.
Taking advantage of the ashen mountainsides – many of which are still smoking hot – surfers carve up the volcano and soar down the mountain like a blast of molten lava…careful to avoid (or attempt to do so, at least) the countless shards, rocks, and hidden obstacles that make the downhill experience more like trekking through a vertical minefield than a pleasant day in the snow.
Many veterans of this topsy-turvy sport say it’s an unmatched burst of adrenaline. Even when the going isn’t so fast and furious – often you’ll be knee-high in silt-like ash and moving slower than a turtle – the fact that you’ve chosen to ride down the face of an active volcano with only a little board between you and certain danger has a sexy quality all its own!
If you’re asking yourself what the draw of such an insane sport is…it’s probably not for you. But, if you’re that one in a hundred who, once they’ve heard of it, have to do whatever it takes to get on that volcano…you don’t need anybody to explain the appeal. Pure adrenaline, total excitement…and, often some wickedly good scratches and scars that will provide years of fireside story-telling of that one summer when…
So, if you’re headed to Nicaragua, take time to enjoy the timeless romance of the Caribbean Sea or the calm peacefulness of the white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Take in the remarkable magic of the tropical rainforests, jungles, and wildlife reserves. Check out the amazing real estate bargains that can be found in every corner of this beautiful country. But, when you’ve had your fill of these more placid experiences, take a bumpy ride west over toward Cerro Negro way and – even if you don’t do it yourself – check out the thrill seekers and action heroes who are defying gravity (and sanity) as they tear it up down the face of an active and ready-to-rumble volcano.
It’s an experience you (and your body) won’t soon forget!
