Jan 11

After a night filled with buzzing sounds and flying phosphorescence(fireflies)we awoke at 8 to fall inline for our breakfast and search for prison ruins. After asking about four different people and finding another set of ruins - Lanzarote the initial quarantine/political prison we were skeptical until we saw a sign saying ´Dois Rios´. We stocked up on some supplies and then we headed inland, torch ready and bodies quaking for some physical exertion. They say the walk takes 2-3 hours but we dominated the steep and jungley walk in 1.5 hours. Our bodies didn´t know what had come over them. All the way up to the top and then all the way down the other side. Thick and lush vegetation, moments of intense odours and fragrances of nature decomposing and the occasional ´crikey´ (due to Giant Snail Crossings) made for a power pace uphill, various overtakes and the ingenious setup of a shop at the top of the peak selling frozen juices was just the ticket. The savage beauty of the island is rather breathtaking although we concluded that one is as likey to see a car on this island as one is a jaguar as there is rumour of one....and we saw tracks alright!!!!

On our descent we stopped to take in the prsion ruins of Dois Rios, not nearly as old or vine entwined as we were hoping and decided solitary confinement with a view of paradise was hardly punishment. The sky opened up beautifully and we basked in the sunshine. The two rivers feeding the bay´s green and mellow seawater on either end provided a nice change from the very salty seawater. At first wanting to head to the big rocks shaping the bay we made a quick call against that idea due to the quantity of bugs inhabiting the area.Instead we headed for a river bank, after a little nibble and nap we decided to do some snorkelling...... however that was a non-event and we took to beachbats(still leaving much to be desired) and a lengthy swim out into a cove.

We finally splashed and stroked our way back in and took to the return with chocolate dosages and enthusiasm. Stopping midway up the hill again we were beaded up and sweaty- ready for a refreshing swim in a river pool. Out and up through a shortcut which was bound to leave Riki´s gluteus maximus agonizing the following day we motored. And came out beside our favorite refreshment selling stall looking very dishevelled and dripping with sweat.
The good news was it was all downhill from there and as we frolicked back to Abraão we were very satisfied with our day's activities. Dined at the same restaurant...good value for money- budgeting backpackers that we are, proceeded to have our nerve systems shot by the waterfront as some Iiidiotttt decided to light a WHOLE box of fireworks at the same time. So after various attempts to calm our nerves...ie cake...(gelatinous!) and ice cream we headed home for a early night of R&R(reading and recovery hah from exercise and eating).