The Islands of Cape Verde

We descend carefully. Maarten slips and falls. Eurico sees it happen and rushes to help break the fall. It doesn’t seem too bad, but we’re all a bit shaken. After a few hundred meters, we leave the path and move into the volcanic ash. By digging in our heels and sliding a bit, the descent becomes easier—at least, I think so. I take large steps down the steep volcano slope. Monique and Maarten are less enthusiastic about the gravel. Eurico helps Monique by giving her a hand. We descend in a straight line. I estimate the slope is almost 45 degrees. I'm thoroughly enjoying myself. It feels like walking down deep snow. I can take big steps like I imagine one would on the moon. My shoes do sink deep into the ash, and pebbles get everywhere. At the base of the mountain, I empty my shoes.