Where in the world are Alpha 2

After 2 days in the jungle crossing through Barbilla National park, Alpha 2 have emerged on the other side, still in one piece and in good form. Their stay in the Valle Escondido Indigenous Reserve was a highlight for everyone with the weather clearing to allow for some serious star gazing.

In the reserve the group stayed in the house of one of the leaders, these simple wooden structures seem like heaven after a day of mud, rivers, hills and spiders! (The tarantula was massive! ) It is also provided an insight into the lives of the Cabecar people who speak their own language, and have a very different way of living. They are a largely self sufficient community who venture into town perhaps once every 3 weeks to stock up on some basic necessities. It was a unique experience for members of Alpha 2, an experience which they are unlikely to forget.

Last night Chris and Rachel from field base met Alpha 2 for their second food drop. The group had found a local community centre in the small town of Cruzada to stay. Although equipped with tents and camping equipment, Alpha 2 has relied on the charm of their members, in particular local venturer Andre, and the hospitality of the Costa Rican people and have managed to so far stay in buildings of some description. It's a brilliant way to travel and really adds to the adventure.

The group enjoys some luxuries brought by field base, with their evening meal of pasta.

Rhys showing off his culinary skills - Dave and Andre with mess tins ready!

Jamie gets to know some locals who are always fascinated to know what we are doing.

Roly and Emily - really they do want to be there!

Individual Updates

Jen – is aching but is showing real determination and strength and has yet to be beaten by a hill or a spider
Vincent – is on top form and keeps everyone entertained with his Dutch humour
Dave – is loving the hills!! Has been a great day leader, but has grown somewhat attached to the smell of his shirt and is determined to complete the trek without washing away the smell!
Emily – has found time to not only trek but write masses of letters – loved ones you will hear from her soon, and don’t worry Mum the bag did make it but went inside the bus.
Andre – our local hero, has been brilliant at negotiating with local people and has brought a great Latin flavour to the group
Roly – is looking forward to his birthday, and is still the proud owner of floppy hair!
Cam – Always in good spirits, and taking everything in her stride – sends her love to Tim
Georgie – a real trooper, has yet to complain, incredibly positive and always smiling
Stu – in great form, sends his love to his girls and his island
Rhys – has loved receiving all your messages and is ready to go
Mick – has recovered from blisters and has rejoined the group with lots of energy after several huge hamburgers
Jamie – has new energy and is ready to roll, is loving playing football and chatting to the local children

Future Plans

Today the group head up to a small community called Taus, here they will stay in a community centre which serves the 5 families which still live there, they will then head up and across some pristine cloud forest, before some serious up, some more jungle, wild camping and stunning views.

We'll update you again soon! Keep the messages flowing, it really means a lot to these guys!