Volcano Surfing

One of the biggest attractions in Leon is volcano surfing, which was invented by the owner of Big Foot Hostel. He experimented with all sorts of materials before finding the right one. He surfed down the Cerro Negro volcano on refrigerator doors, skis, surfboards, and more, until he finally developed the perfect board for this sport. These days, most people sit on the board and hold onto a rope. Some do stand up, but it’s a really steep volcano, and you zoom down a 41-degree slope. The record speed is 76 km/h, which is just insane! We were the first ones to race down the hill, decked out in yellow jumpsuits and safety goggles. Although, we definitely didn’t hit 76 km/h. We slowed down with our feet, sending little volcanic rocks flying around us. It was quite a challenge to sit on the board and be pushed over the edge. But we did it! :) The trip costs $23 per person, plus 100 cordobas for entry to the volcano area. It’s a fun experience, but make sure to wear proper shoes—no sandals—because it makes everything a bit easier. Cerro Negro looks like a big black mountain made of solidified lava rocks. It erupts about every seven years. The last time it erupted was in 1999, so another explosion is expected soon!