Ometepe Island

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Nicaraguan Tourism Board
Photo provided by Nicaraguan Tourism Board
Photo provided by Nicaraguan Tourism Board
Ometepe Island
Photo by Greg Jackson

Twin volcanoes rise spectacularly out of Lake Nicaragua to form this stunning island featuring green fields, lush rainforest and freshwater springs.

Get out among nature on tranquil Ometepe Island, where unspoiled landscape encompasses everything from volcanos to cascading waterfalls. Try adventure sports, go in search of incredible wildlife and learn about the history of this scenic island.

Hike up the active Concepción Volcano to get stunning views from its summit. Although the top of Concepción is often covered in clouds, on a rare clear day, the Pacific Ocean is visible. This challenging hike typically takes around 10 hours and should be attempted only with the assistance of a local guide. Alternatively, complete the difficult 8-hour hike up and down Maderas Volcano.

Soothe tired leg muscles by sinking into clear turquoise pools at the Ojos de Agua freshwater springs. Rest on sun loungers and sip on a cool drink or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. Children are welcome at the springs.

South of Concepción Volcano lies the Laguna Charco Verde nature reserve. Walk along the shady trails and listen for the guttural call of howler monkeys in the trees overhead. Go trekking along forest trails or rent a kayak from the reserve hotel to paddle around the lagoon.

Marvel at the pre-Colombian artifacts on display at the Museum El Ceibo. Examine urns, ceramics and other objects unearthed by archaeologists and local farmers. The museum’s exhibits provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of this island.

Bask in the tropical sun on the black-sand strip at Punta Jesus Maria. Stay for sunset and enjoy amazing views over Lake Nicaragua and Concepción Volcano.

For something more high-energy, soar through the treetops on the Chico Largo Adventure zip line course. Other popular activities including kayaking on the lake, horse riding and hiking to the San Ramon waterfall.

To reach Ometepe Island, ride the ferry from San Jorge. From here, local taxis and buses can bring you to your accommodations.

Enjoy a trip to this incredible island, which offers an appealing blend of relaxation and adventure.

Finca San Juan de la Isla

Finca San Juan de la Isla

3 out of 5
2.3 km. to East, Altagracia
The price is ¥8,636 per night from Sep 29 to Sep 30
¥8,636
¥9,931 total
Sep 29 - Sep 30
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach lodge in Altagracia. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (224 reviews)
"Un gran hotel con excelente atención. La comida deliciosa y el lugar inmejorable"

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2025

Finca San Juan de la Isla
Totoco Eco Resort

Totoco Eco Resort

3.5 out of 5
Callejon de la Palmera, 800m arriba, Altagracia, Rivas
The price is ¥8,524 per night from Oct 7 to Oct 8
¥8,524
¥9,802 total
Oct 7 - Oct 8
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Altagracia. Enjoy free breakfast, onsite spa services, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (72 reviews)
Peaceful
"Peaceful and cozy cabins. Cabins have off the grid toilets and outdoor showers. The volcano view is monumental. The only thing I would like to be adjusted is the loud talking from the kitchen staff in the mornings before breakfast."

Reviewed on Sep 16, 2025

Totoco Eco Resort
Hotel La Estancia

Hotel La Estancia

3.5 out of 5
Hospital Moyogalpa 800 metros sur, Isla de Ometepe, Rivas, Nicaragua, Moyagalpa
The price is ¥17,270 per night from Sep 29 to Sep 30
¥17,270
¥19,861 total
Sep 29 - Sep 30
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Moyagalpa. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Sala Arqueológica & Cyber Ometepe and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (34 reviews)
"Super nice people really there for help with"

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2025

Hotel La Estancia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cabañas el Manantial

Cabañas el Manantial

Esquipulas, Moyagalpa, Rivas
Stay at this cabin in Moyagalpa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Galería de Arte Carlos Vargas and Jesus Maria ...
Cabañas el Manantial
Standard Bungalow

Standard Bungalow

Esquipulas, Rivas
Stay at this vacation home in Moyagalpa. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Galería de Arte Carlos Vargas and Jesus Maria ...
Standard Bungalow
Cabañas El Bamboo

Cabañas El Bamboo

3 out of 5
Esc. de Balgüe, 300 metros al el norte, Altagracia, Rivas
Stay at this 3-star beach cabin in Altagracia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Santo Domingo Beach and Maderas Volcano ...
Cabañas El Bamboo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Ometepe Island

4.8
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
9
5 - Excellent 75%
4 - Good
3
4 - Good 25%
3 - Okay
0
3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Highly recommend visiting this island, many wonderful things to do.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great island to visit for 2-3 days

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We just rented a driver for the days we were there and he took us everywhere, didn't charge a lot, and was extremely patient. I think that is the best route to take. If you book a package on the Ferry from the tour guy, you can negotiate A LOT.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

The waterfalls are a must - so great!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Absolutely gorgeous, if you love nature it's definitely the place to be.