6 Adventures and a Few Ways to Chill on Isla Ometepe

For travelers who are looking for outdoor activities that go beyond your ordinary walk in the woods, Isla Ometepe is your oasis. Composed of two volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua’s center, the island is as adventurous as it is exotic. Here are a few of our favorite outdoor activities to enjoy on Isla Ometepe.

Hike A Volcano

Both the Maderas (4,600 feet) and Concepcion (5,300 feet) Volcanoes are hikeable, with a certified guide. Maderas, the smaller of the two, is more frequently summited. The volcano is dormant, with a serene lagoon in the crater which you can swim in. The journey also offers amazing views across the island as it combines with the Concepcion volcano. Expect the hike to take around eight hours.

The round-trip hike up and down the active Concepcion volcano, on the other hand, takes about 10 hours. Concepcion continuously discharges vapors from its crater and sometimes even debris and small lava flows. Its last activity was in March 2010 when it spit out a huge ash cloud. While it’s unlikely that this will happen during your hike, bear in mind there is always some risk of eruption when a volcano is considered active.

READ MORE: Hippie Haven: Ometepe, Nicaragua

Kayaking

On the lighter side, take a tranquil ride along Rio Istian. The river creates a unique swampland, which is best explored by kayak. Keep an eye out for the egrets, turtles, caiman and howler monkeys that hang out in and around these waters.

Bike Ride

One of the great benefits of being a small island in the middle of a lake is that there aren't many cars, especially once you get outside of the ferry town of Moyogalpa. A bike ride is a great way to spend an afternoon and explore what is around. Scooter/Motorcycle Around the Island If biking isn't really your pace, you can rent a scooter or a motorcycle and circumnavigate the island. Just make sure to get directions, as it is surprisingly easy to get lost and the potholed and sandy roads can become treacherous at night.

Chaco Verde Hike

The Ecological Reserve of Charco Verde covers 20 hectares of tropical dry forest with multiple hiking trails. Don't miss the picturesque lagoon with the towering Maderas volcano as a backdrop. The trail also includes a calm swimming beach where you have a beautiful view of Isla de Quiste.

Ojo de Agua

The natural freshwater spring is a popular place to relax after a hike at nearby Chaco Verde. There is a restaurant, facilities and rope swing for your enjoyment. The Coco Locos are particularly pleasant.

Sunset at Punta Jesus Maria

The sand spit at Punta Jesus Maria extends more than 1 km out into lake Nicaragua and offers amazing views looking back toward the island. Time a visit around sunset for spectacular photo opportunities.

READ MORE: 33 Photos That Will Make You Want To Fly To Nicaragua Right Now

Kitesurfing

Because of its unique location, Isla Ometepe is one of the best places to learn and practice kitesurfing. The lake's windy season is considered from December to June when conditions favor the sport. The Sun Kite school offers lessons to beginner or advanced riders.

Isla Ometepe has plenty of outdoor activities to keep your entertained. Which adventure sounds most fun to you?

Follow @ACruisingCouple