Hiking Nicaragua
Hiking in Nicaragua - Peaks, Views and Volcanos
Nicaragua is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering impressive nature and diverse landscapes. From smoking volcanoes to dense rainforests, the country provides a wide range of unforgettable hikes with spectacular views. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, Nicaragua has something for everyone. In the following sections, you’ll discover the best hikes this fascinating country has to offer. Lace up your hiking boots and let Nicaragua’s unique charm guide you through its breathtaking scenery!
Hikes & Key Facts
Hiking Details
1
I
Telica Vulcano
- 8 h
- 22 km
- 900 m
- moderate
- 5 out of 5
2
I
Concepción Volcano
- 8-9 h
- 12.5 km
- 1450 m
- difficult
- 4 out of 5
3
I
Mombacho Volcano
- 2-4 h
- different routes
- easy
The imposing Mombacho volcano dominates the landscape around Granada and offers countless opportunities for adventure. A hike up Mombacho is an excellent choice for nature lovers. The volcano stands at 1,344 meters high and is located about 10 km south of Granada. At the summit, you’ll find a nature reserve with unique flora and fauna.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the park entrance is by taxi. From there, you can either take a truck to the top or choose to hike the 6 kilometers (be prepared, it’s steep – an elevation gain of around 850 meters. The hike follows a paved path that the truck also uses).
The Puma Trail
Once you reach the top, there are several trails to explore. The shortest trail is free of charge and doesn’t require a guide. However, the most popular option is the Puma Trail. This guided trek takes you through the jungle, across cloud forests, and finally into an area where the vegetation is dead due to volcanic gases. The diverse nature on this hike is fascinating. The trail itself is not particularly difficult, but the high humidity will make you work up a sweat.
Depending on your pace, the hike will take around 2 hours.
Cost
Costs for two people (we were four and shared some costs, such as the cab):
- Taxi to the volcano (approx. 12 km, 15 min): 75 NIO (1.90 euros)
- Truck (round trip): 1,610 NIO (approx. 40 euros)
- Entrance fee for the Puma Trail: 300 NIO (approx. 7.50 euros)
- Guide for the walk: 450 NIO (approx. 11 euros)
- Taxi back to Granada: 100 NIO (approx. 2.50 euros)
- Total: Approx. 63 euros for 2 people (31.50 euros per person)
Conclusion
It was a beautiful trip with a lot of interesting flora and fauna, but it’s definitely a bit pricey for a backpacker’s budget. We found the hike to be good and interesting, but not spectacular. If you would like to do a jungle trail through the rainforest, then we can recommend it to you. But if you hike a lot anyway and have already seen a lot, then this might not be the most exciting hike for you. Especially because it is also a bit more expensive for a backpacker budget.
4
I
Cerro Negro: Volcano Boarding and Hiking
- 30-45 min
- easy
Cerro Negro is one of the youngest volcanoes in Nicaragua and a must for adrenaline junkies. The hike itself is relatively short, but the real thrill comes from volcano boarding, where you race down the volcano on a board at high speed.
- Hike: The ascent takes about 30 to 45 minutes. It’s a steep but manageable hike over black volcanic ash and rocks.
- Highlight: At the summit, you can enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding volcanoes before hopping on a board and sliding down the slope.
- Cost: A guided tour costs between 25 and 35 USD, including transportation and sandboarding equipment.
5
I
San Cristóbal: The Highest Volcano in Nicaragua
- 7 h
- 12 km
- 1350 m
- difficult
San Cristóbal is the highest and one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua. If you’re up for conquering the country’s tallest peak, expect a strenuous day hike with an elevation gain of over 1,000 meters. The hike is challenging, particularly due to the slippery sandy ground. Based on what we heard, hiking alone is no longer recommended, and a guided tour is the best option. The cost for a tour is around 95 USD.
- Hike: The hike takes about 6 to 8 hours (round trip) and is demanding, especially due to the steep ascent and high temperatures.
- Highlight: From the summit, you’ll be treated to unbeatable views of the Pacific coast and surrounding volcanoes.
- Difficulty: Difficult – suitable only for experienced and well-prepared hikers.
6
I
El Hoyo Volcano: Remote Volcano Hike
- 4 h
- 11 km
- 540 m
- moderate
El Hoyo is a lesser-known volcano, famous for its distinctive crater hole („hoyo“ in Spanish). This hike takes you through untouched nature and offers breathtaking views of surrounding volcanoes and Lake Managua.
- Hike: There are several routes, typically taking 4 to 6 hours. As the path is not always clearly marked, good orientation or a GPS is recommended.
- Highlight: In addition to the unique crater hole, you’ll enjoy wide views of the volcanic mountains, especially at sunset.
- Difficulty Level: Medium to difficult, as the trail can be poorly marked and remote.
- Start at the Cerro Negro Information Office: The Cerro Negro Information Office is located just before Cerro Negro volcano, and it serves as a starting point for the hike. It’s about 24 km from León, and a taxi is the most convenient option, especially if you don’t want to waste time. Public transportation to this specific location is not available. It’s best to ask your hostel if they can arrange a driver for you. Be sure to agree on a fixed price and pick-up time. Alternatively, if you’ve already booked a tour to Cerro Negro, ask if the agency can give you a ride for a small additional fee.
7
I
Momotombo Volcano Hike
- 6-8 h
- difficult
Momotombo is one of Nicaragua’s most iconic volcanoes, primarily because of its perfect cone shape. The hike is demanding, but the view from the summit makes it all worthwhile.
- Hike: This is a steep and challenging hike that takes around 6 to 8 hours. The final stretch is especially tough, as the terrain becomes rocky and loose.
- Highlight: At the top, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of Lake Managua, surrounding volcanoes, and the Pacific coast.
- Difficulty Level: Difficult, particularly due to the steep and rocky terrain. Depending on where you start your hike, it can be up to 1250 meters in altitude.