The X-ray groups begin their new projecta

Despite bad weather on the first day due to a tropical storm (don´t worry, this is causing no significant problems and is now on it´s way to Honduras and beyond) X-ray 1 have got off to a storming start (excuse the pun). They have walked through the fresh pine forests above Esteli and are now in Achapa where they have reunited with X-ray 5 for the day. Everyone is doing great and looking forward to seeing some volcanoes.

X-ray 2 have set an unprecidented, blistering pace on the first four days of the coast to coast trek. They have shown incredible discipline and organisational skills by getting up at 4am and setting off at 5.30, meaning that they have reached their destination by midday every day so far, giving them extra time to chill out, sunbathe and rest those weary feet. The group will face their first big challenge tomorrow as they enter the jungle and have to deal with persistent rain, mud, bugs and thick, dense rainforest.

X-ray 2 preparing to set off on their coast to coast trek.

X-ray 3 have had some serious rain for the first few days of their project but it hasn´t dampened their spirits. The group have now moved from the rangers station to their full on, hardcore jungle camp where they will sleep in hammocks and basher beds, wash in the river, cook under a tarp and enjoy the sights and sounds of the jungle. they´ve been continuingthe fine work of Alpha 3 and are on track to finish the trail this phase.

X-ray 3 before heading off to the jungle

X-ray 4 had no choice but to get stuck straight into their project because they were being filmed by Raleigh videographer Turab Shah, who had just one day to capture all of the footage for Camoranal. In day 2 of the phase, the group built 42 more steps on the stairway to heaven (the steps to the viewing point) and were fortunate enough to see turtles on their first night there.

The stunning view at Camoranal

X-ray 5 were given an extrodinarily warm welcome into the community of El Cacao. As project manager Ed said "it doesn´t get better than this". The group have been split of into twos and threes and are living with their own Nicaraguan families, being woken by the roosters at 4am and eating rice and beans three times a day, not to mention drinking the finest coffee known to man. They have already dug over 200 metres of trenches, knowing that in 15 days, they´ll be bringing much needed fresh and clean water to the villagers of El Cacao.

X-ray 6, a.k.a X-treme 6 arrived in El Zacaton and much like X-ray 5, they recieved a warm welcome from the community and have moved in with their new Nica families. As the foreman doesn´t start work until Monday, the group have been taking advantage of their free time by visiting the local radio statio and getting to know the local community. This phase they will complete the fine work done by Alpha 6, leaving El Cacao with a brand new community centre which will serve as the hub of the community, providing a space for meetings, training and social events as well as doubling as a pre-school