Hiking on Ometepe island
Summitting the Volcanoes
A local guide is required to summit either Maderas or Conception. The trails drift off and it is easy to get lost up there. Tourism is also a major part of the economy, especially somewhere like Ometepe, so paying a local guide who knows the area and the wildlife well is a great way to give back to this community that hosts us here. Our recommended guides are friendly, knowledgeable and bi-lingual. They can be arranged until late afternoon the day before a hike.
Maderas - the dormant one - 1394 mts
Selvista is based at the foot of Maderas volcano, so you can set off right after breakfast from the kitchen if you like; take fresh fruit and a lunch prepared the night before.
The hike takes around 8 hours (on average), so leave by 8am to be back for around 4pm. You’ll pass through the Finca Magdalena, a historic institute on the island, past petroglyphs, through rain forest and through the tropical forest finally to emerge at the crater lagoon up top. Our guides include trail-entry fees paid here.
There’s a chance of seeing rare parrots, monkeys (howlers and the white-faced capuchins), all sorts of cool insects like the chirping cicadas and maybe some reptiles if you’re lucky. Not to mention the plethora of plant varieties! It’s a nature-lover’s dream.
Remember it’s a lush forest that has been growing for many years in the crater of a dormant volcano; it’s a rugged terrain that is often wet and therefore muddy and slippery.
This is a unique hike that’s not for the feint-hearted but easily achievable with some determination for a person of reasonable fitness and physical ability.
At Selvista, we understand that canceling a reservation can be frustrating, but we want to remind our guests of the importance of supporting local service providers. Cancelling last minute can have a significant impact on the income of our local partners who depend on the tourism industry to make a living.
By implementing a cancellation charge, we ensure that our partners receive a fair share of the income they depend on.
We firmly believe that responsible tourism should increase economic stability instead of exploiting economically struggling countries. Let us work together to create a sustainable and ethical tourism industry that benefits everyone involved.
To loosen up the muscles after, check out the in-house massage:
Reserve your accommodation for a comfy night’s sleep before and after your hiking adventures. Selvista is a great base for any of the local hikes and trails.
See other suggestions of Ometepe Island’s top things to do on our activities page.
If you still haven’t confirmed your accommodation with us, you can do so via the button below. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.