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 ¥8,451 per night from Jul 22 to Jul 23
¥8,451
¥9,719 total
Jul 22 - Jul 23
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! (210 reviews)
"Best in Ometepe"

Reviewed on May 26, 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 ¥8,437 per night from Jun 29 to Jun 30
¥8,437
¥9,702 total
Jun 29 - Jun 30
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! (64 reviews)
"Amazing place"

Reviewed on May 28, 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 ¥17,093 per night from Jun 24 to Jun 25
¥17,093
¥19,657 total
Jun 24 - Jun 25
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 ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (30 reviews)
"We really enjoyed our 3 night stay at the hotel. Staff extremely friendly and helpful, especially the gentleman that does the food and beverage service in the pool area. We rented a side-by-side quad one day to explore, even though we had a car. Lots of fun."

Reviewed on Mar 8, 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 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
Unwind in Style: Cozy Bungalow with All the Comforts of Home in the Ometepe
Unwind in Style: Cozy Bungalow with All the Comforts of Home in the Ometepe
Altagracia
Stay at this vacation home in Altagracia. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Santo Domingo Beach and Ojo de Agua Park are ...
Perfect Stay with Stunning Views and Prime Location
"Beautiful accommodation with a breathtaking view! The location is perfect – ideal for a relaxing vacation. The apartment is modern, very clean, stylish, and authentically decorated. Nothing is missing; it has everything you could possibly need. The perfect place for an unforgettable stay. Highly ..."

Reviewed on Jan 22, 2025

Unwind in Style: Cozy Bungalow with All the Comforts of Home in the Ometepe
Peaceful 2-bedroom house with comfortable beds and WiFi
Peaceful 2-bedroom house with comfortable beds and WiFi
Rivas
Stay at this vacation home in Altagracia. Popular attractions Santo Domingo Beach and Maderas Volcano are located nearby.
Peaceful 2-bedroom house with comfortable beds and WiFi
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.