Zulu Group update

Unbelievably the end of Expedition 12B is just around the corner. Next Thursday will see the groups return to fieldbase for the final time... but before that here is a Easter round-up of all the goings on in Raleigh Costa Rica & Nicaragua

Zulu 1:
Currently steaming their way through Costa Rica, Zulu 1 have: trudged through the eastern jungles of Chirripo, travelled through indigenous territories (meeting the local Cabecar people), reached Hacienda Tiquirres - one of the highest points of Costa Rica (3000m) and are currently making their way to Cerro Bares (Bares Mountain) where they will be treated to one of the country's iconic vistas - a mountain-top view of the Pacific Ocean!

Zulu 2
Having made their way down from relatively high lands, walked along the Panamanian border and visited the breathtaking La Amistad National Park, Zulu 2 are entering the final stretch of their trek. Tomorrow, they enter the tropical milieu that is Corcovado National Park where they can expect to encounter anteaters, the four species of monkey and, if they're lucky, the mighty Puma. Already in high spirits, the group's mood has been lifted by the arrival of photographer Ale and accountant Holly for the final few days of the trek.

Zulu 3
Despite, previously claiming to be enduring the hardships of trek it appears that Zulu 3 are living in the lap of luxury! In addition to, enjoying the cooling effects of a rare thunderstorm (a very welcome respite from the heat of Nicaragua), the group has reported that last night they had a BATH!! In other news, Rob has joined the group (having been unable to participate from the start due to, a now healed, infected insect bite) on the ascent of Volcan Cerro Negro.

Zulu 4
(Scroll down for a full update from Zulu 4)

Zulu 5
Persistant rain hasn't stopped Zulu 5 from doing some 'storming' work on their path and gaining much kudos from the rangers in the process. The hoardes of tourists visiting Volcan Tenorio for Easter week will give the group a chance to witness the fruits of their labour as the visitors tramp up and down their path in search of the park's hidden gems. Tourist income helps pay the salaries  of the park rangers who maintain and protect the park so the groups work is rightly valued by all and sundry.

Zulu 6
Later today, Zulu 6 will be challenging the locals to a game of baseball - it may be Nicaragua's national sport but we here at field base have faith that the Achuapa group will do us proud! As it is Easter, the group have shut down operations and are learning about local Easter traditions (including eating a delicious fish supper tonight). In many parts of Nicaragua and Costa Rica the Easter week is religiously so most workers/industries/shops shut down for the period - akin to what happens in the UK at Christmas.

Zulu 7
...but completely contradicting what we've just said about Easter, Zulu 7 are CONTINUING work on their project. The group and the locals are so keen to get things finished that they have sacrificed themselves for the greater good. They will be painting a mural on the local pre-school building as well as putting the finishing touches onto one of the houses. To be fair, they did have Tuesday off in Esteli when they visited the Heroes and Martyrs Museum and the local cigar factory so they're not totally overdoing it on the work front.

That's all for now, but don't forget to stay tuned for more blog updates from the groups before the final send off blog in just over a week's time!