Leaving at 130am to hike up a volcano: bliss. 22.07.16

Ive been chilling this afternoon at the Bali Fit cafe drinking my fruit smoothie out of a coconut and a big pumpkin salad. I wish that food this tasty, nutritious and cheap.was just as available at home. I would rarely be craving junk food!

Me and the English boys headed up Ubud volcano. I slept for one hour as we had to leave at 130am. The drive takes about 2 hours to Ubud. Then the hike itself takes 2 hours to get up. The hike is intensely steep and often sketchy at times due to the slipperyness and grittiness due to the rain.

Our guides were two young Balinese boys: 19 and 21 years old but still very flirty and eager to hat about pop music and joke around. They do the hike 6 times a week as well as help out with their parents chilli and tomato farming.  They never get tired. But like the surf guides, they all smoke. I tell them that it is such a waste for them to do this when they are so strong! The guides call me a strong girl because I refuse to have any assistance in the hike and have a big bandage on my head!

We left at 130am so that we can see the sunrise at the top. We do the hike in 1.5 hours so we wait an hour for the sun to rise. We drank hot chocolate with whiskey at the top and cuddle up together. Behind us, a sea of lights, like glow worms trail; all of the other hikers making their way up with torches through the dark. We all know it will be colder at the top but we didn't quite believe the Balinese when they say it is  cold. Finally, free space, quietness and a cool and clean breeze follows us through the trek. I am so appreciative.

Watching the scenery change as the sun rises at the top of the volcano in Ubud.

 

Slowly, we see the clouds take different forms around the volcano. It is breathtaking and every part of the early start and the grit and grind of the uphill struggle has its redemption. It so special up there.

Poor old Conner got Bali Belly at the top of the Volcano.

Hanging out with Monkeys on the hike back down.

Ive had a little sleep and 2 fantastic meals. I'm really out of it due to sleep deprivation and an intense hike that I know will ache my legs tomorrow. But I am content.

All the people in Changgu know me on a first name basis now. I'm watching scooters drive by to the beach as I lie on a sofa in this cafe writing my blog.  Nothing worries me. I am at peace.