Checking out of my hostel (again…), I waited to be collected for the first part of my tour/transfer to Santa Elena. I was expecting a small mini-van as the transfer was referred to as jeep/boat/jeep, but a large van turned up and started filling before finally leaving La Fortuna. We drove back up through the hills, crossing the Laguna de Arenal dam wall. This dam provides sufficient hydroelectricity to generate around 13% of Costa Rica’s energy needs. Pretty and practical. We continued around the edge of the dam a bit longer before pulling into a rutted dirt road which lead down to the water. There waiting, were several passenger boats.
Other buses were already disgorging their passengers onto the boats and we followed suit. Our luggage was hauled off the van and placed in the front of the boat. And then we were off. And then it started to rain. And rain. And rain. The plastic screens of one side were rolled down, effectively blocking any views in that direction. Then, the lake became shrouded in mist masking any views at all. Still it was lovely being in the water and watching the ghostly vista pass by.
The lake was much larger than I was expecting and it took us nearly half an hour to cruise to the end where awaiting vans were lined up. We had all been given a number on a yellow sticky note indicating which bus we needed to take on the other side. I was in van number 8, along with several of the other travellers I had been chatting to en route. Once all aboard, our van lumbered up the dirt road heading towards out final destination.
The roads on this side of Laguna de Arenal are less than desirable; being heavily potholed compacted dirt and roadbase. Moreover, they are narrow and winding which makes for interesting traversing for larger vehicles. Our driver was well versed in handling the conditions though and we had a comfortable ride. I sat up the front and took advantage of unencumbered views of the picturesque countryside. And picturesque it was. Everywhere was lush and verdant, with little casas neatly nestled in the hilly terrain. We were gaining altitude and a misty cloud cover came to greet us.
After a short rest stop at a roadside cafe, we eventually arrived in Santa Elena. I was dropped off at my hostel and checked in before dumping my pack and going off for an explore of this sweet little tourist town.
Wild Woman Wandering 