Day 3/Fr (🚗Rivera)

Today marks my first trip - it's needless to say that my friend here knows almost everything already 😂

We headed to Rivera, specifically to the hot springs of Los Angeles (Los Angeles Termal).

The drive there - my first trip across the countryside in Colombia - was just as exciting as the previous journeys in Neiva itself.

Speed limits and double lines seem more for decoration than actual traffic regulation. Overtaking happens wherever and however possible. However, when changing lanes, one should be careful that a motorcyclist or moped rider doesn’t suddenly appear on the right - and of course, always keep an eye on oncoming traffic! 😳😅

At a larger construction site, I simply followed the vehicle ahead of me - and suddenly found myself facing traffic on the new lane that hadn’t been opened yet. I just needed to practice merging back into the queue at the front.

Before this, I had wondered why Google Maps suggested an average speed between 30 and 40 km/h - after this drive, I understood why! 😂

Now onto Rivera and the springs themselves:

A truly breathtaking place! 🤩

“Termales Los Ángeles” are natural, mineral-rich hot springs along with a cold spring, located slightly in the foothills of the Cordilleras. There are three beautifully tiled thermal pools with varying temperatures, surrounded by tropical jungle fauna where wonderfully shiny, palm-sized butterflies flit about.

There’s also a restaurant serving local food (and comfortable accommodations for those wanting to stay overnight) - the freshly squeezed passion fruit juice was simply delicious!

Access is monitored (armed guard! 😳) to avoid overcrowding, and the entry prices are moderate.

Total relaxation and rejuvenation!

And now I’ll just let the pictures speak for themselves 🤩🤩🤩