July 7, 2007

In some ways driving in Central America is actually easier than it is in Mexico because there are far fewer vehicles on the roads and the vehicles that are on the roads tend to be in better shape.

However, as was hammered home to us on a windy, hilly drive through north central Honduras, every two-lane highway has an amorphous 3rd lane straight up the middle that anyone can use at any time

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The ferry from Utila back to La Ceiba left the island at 6:20 am.

After retrieving the van from La Samba, and filling up our propane tank at the Tropigas, we hit the road, first retracing our route to San Pedro Sula.

On the way we saw two dead horses rotting beside the road. Not an uncommon occurrence in Central America.

After stopping for lunch at the air-conditioned Wendy’s restaurant in El Progresso – El Progresso is a haven for American chain restaurants, for some reason – we continued on to our destination: the Lago (lake) de Yojoa region in north central Honduras.

There are a few fincas in the area that welcome campers, and we settled on Finca Los Glorias.

Situated between the village of Agua Azul and the larger town of Pena Blanca, Finca Los Glorias is a hotel property that’s a little tired around the edges but that is right on the gorgeous lake, has a small pool, and a secluded “back forty” where they allowed us to camp.

A minor attraction in the area is the D&D B&B, which is a tiny microbrewery/guest house owned by an ex-past from Oregon. The setting was rustic but the beer was tasty.

The major attraction is a majestic waterfall: Catarata de Pulhapanzak, which is 10 kilometre drive north of Pena Blanca.

We spent the better part of the morning swimming in the pools above the falls, a popular spot for families. The water was wonderfully clean and refreshing to swim in.

Key Facts & Figures:

-Finca Los Glorias campsite: $7.50