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Ometepe Unique Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Home » Central America » Nicaragua » Offbeat Ometepe: An Itinerary for 2024 with Hidden Gems

Offbeat Ometepe: An Itinerary for 2024 with Hidden Gems

Today, I’ve got a secret to share about my favorite island on Earth, a perfect jewel set in Southern Nicaragua’s vast Lake Nicaragua. 

Ometepe Island (or Isla de Ometepe in Spanish) is one of the most magical places I’ve ever been to and it tends to leave a deep impression on most people who journey there. Let me paint a picture for you: Volcanoes, Fireflies, Jungle, Cacao, and an opportunity to challenge yourself in the midst of the Nicaraguan jungle. 

I  came across this island, fresh into my first solo backpacking trip and was mesmerized by the sheer abundance I found … Fireflies flitting upon the evening wind, freshwater sharks patrolling the clear lake bed, birds of every color welcoming the first warm rays of dawn. But it is not just the beautiful views, adventure activities, friendly communities and ancient culture that draws people from all over the world to visit Ometepe, it’s also a spiritual hub and it is here that many people come on journeys of self reflection and growth.

So to help you best experience everything this island has to offer, I’ve put together this 3-day Ometepe Island itinerary that focuses on the must-sees and those often-overlooked hidden gems.

Let’s get into it!

A Little Bit About this 3-Day Ometepe Itinerary

Every travel experience is unique.

Some people prefer adventures, or guided tours while others enjoy the thrill of journeying the off-beat path or being one of very few travelers in a country like Pakistan. Personally, I like to travel with growth, meaning, and a spiritual component in mind. I really get a lot out of a soul-searching adventure. Backpacking Ometepe is perfect for travelers looking to learn more about themselves. There is something truly powerful and poignant about this island that carries a hidden magic.

A whisper, to remember who you are and why you came to earth. A gentle smile from the trees, happy to see that you came. An invitation to challenge yourself, from the ancient and wise volcanoes that have stood like watchful sentinels over this land for eons.

Even if you aren’t into all the juju, la Isla de Ometepe has a lot to offer to the adventurous traveler or somebody looking to find a welcoming community.

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3-Day Ometepe Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 in Ometepe: El Pital , Ometepe Rock Carvings
• Day 2 in Ometepe: Concepción Volcano / Maderas Volcano
• Day 3 in Ometepe: Playa Santa Cruz

Where To Stay in Ometepe

There are a few good options for where to stay in Ometepe. Abuela’s casita is where the locals hang and there are some great eco-lodge options in Nicaragua .  Due to the island’s relatively small size, you’ll probably be in a pretty good location and not too far away from anything no matter where you choose to base yourself.

Each part of the island has something unique, like a local volcanic spring or trees populated by raucous monkeys. Your pick on where to stay won’t make or break your trip so this is an occasion where you don’t need to massively over plan.

Although Moyogalpa is one of the main places people tend to stay out of convenience, I don’t recommend it for the offbeat traveler . This is where the main ferry port is, and most likely where you will arrive when you get to Ometepe. This is a good place to get transportation for your Ometepe adventures and eat some good local food but not to stay (way too crowded).

Balgue is where the hip young crowd tends to hang out (including me). This part of La Isla is remote and full of naked hippies. MY PEOPLE. In all seriousness, this is the place to be. Lots of activities, eco-lodges, and opportunities to meet new people.

Altagracia is the place where you’ll find Ojos de agua (watering holes). This part of the island is beautiful… Really. I loved the drive through the local villages stopping to dip into the flowing streams. Nature lovers will LOVE this area. 

If you’re looking for a spot on the island to be in silence and just enjoy the incredible scenery, Meridais where you want to be. This part of the island is known for the local villages and very relaxed atmosphere. Do be aware, that the roads in this part of town are really underdeveloped, so please be careful driving mopeds, it’s easy to take a nasty tumble (I’m speaking from personal experience, more on that later).

Ometepe can also be divided into two sections: One is closest to Concepcion Volcano and the other is known as the Maderas side. Each part has so much to offer, and so many cute posadas to stay at. Below I’ve covered some of my favorite places to stay in Ometepe…  

Best place to stay on Ometepe – El Pital, Chocolate Paradise

In two words, “Chocolate Paradise” perfectly describes my experience at El Pital. As a chocolate farm eco-lodge, El Pital offers a serene retreat where mornings begin with breathtaking views of the Concepción volcano, days are filled with refreshing swims in the lake, and evenings unwind on the yoga deck. The tranquil surroundings ensure you depart with a sense of zen. Accommodations at El Pital range from private bungalows to shared dormitory options, catering to many different preferences.

Best Budget Homestay on Ometepe – Ananda Guesthouse

This guesthouse is a luxurious gem! With stunning views and delicious free breakfast, I have no doubt you’ll love your stay. There are so many activities nearby, including volcano hikes, coffee tours, and options to rent scooters, motorcycles, and ATVs. Plus, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the village of Balgüe, where you’ll find restaurants and small convenience stores.

Best Hostel on Ometepe – El Zopilote

El Zopilote is perfect for solo travelers visiting Ometepe, offering a special stay with a range of free daily events such as sunset yoga and tours of the permaculture farm. Be sure not to miss out on the lively Friday pizza night. Accommodations at El Zopilote are diverse, ranging from dorm rooms and private rooms to a campsite and budget-friendly hammocks available for under $5. The hostel life here is amazing!

How to Get to Ometepe

You know what they say: the best places are the hardest to get to….Welcome to Ometepe. You’ll start your day by venturing to the ferry port (about an hour from San Juan del Sur) which is a GREAT excuse to have a pit stop for the night in a cute surf town with great vibes.

As far as backpacking Central America goes, spending some time in San Juan del Sur is a must! The ferry is less than $ 5 USD roundtrip and it takes about 45 minutes to get there.

Fun fact – the lake surrounding Ometepe (Lake Nicaragua) is the biggest lake in Central America! Cool, right?

Here are a few ways to the ferry port:

• Take a local Chicken bus. 
• Take a Taxi. 
• Stick out your thumb and hitchhike!! 

When I visited Ometepe I took every opportunity I could to hitchhike, I even caught an hour-long ride on a motorcycle on my way out (my proudest moment hitchhiking as a woman to date).

The port is hard to miss, you’ll know it once you’re there. Chances are you’ll see other people backpacking Central America taking on Ometepe too. The port is easy to navigate too, and the locals help tourists navigate the area super well.

Before you get on to the ferry make sure to get a local dish or stock up on some tasty snacks, my favorites were gallo pinto and tostones. The ferry schedule is pretty straightforward, the ferries start to take off at 7 am through 5 pm.

Ometepe Itinerary Day 1: Cacao tours, and Sunset Yoga

Alright friends, we’re finally here, let’s dive into day 1 of what to see and do in Ometepe… 

Step 1 .  Rent a scooter  

This is by far the easiest way to get around on the island.

Step 2 . Play it safe!

Make sure you are geared up before you ride said scooter… Seriously guys be safe, and always wear a helmet, many adventurous souls have taken a tumble in Ometepe, myself included!

Step 3 . Hit the road road and EXPLORE .

The cool thing about the island is that you can literally see all of it in just a few hours. One road circulates the whole island so it’s easy to get around!

Start the day off at El Pital

El Pital is an eco-community, built on the pillars of yoga, veganism, cacao, and friendship. People come here to soak in some of THE BEST chocolate on the island. They do walking tours throughout the farm, where you get a full rundown and even get a taste of fresh cacao off the tree! After the tour, you can join a yoga class with a view of the Concepción volcano or you can tune in to the infamous cacao ceremonies.

If you haven’t done a cacao ceremony before, here is what you can expect. Music, prayer, and lots of chocolate. It is a chance to come together with a group of people, set intentions, and get into a meditation led by love.

This is one of my favorite gems on the island. You can buy chocolate milkshakes and swim in the lake while jamming out to tropical music. The playlist is always 10/10…

Insider Tip:

• Cost : $10-15
• Getting there :  located in the Balgue district, you can get here by transportation or foot, depending on how far you are. 
• How long should you stay :  a few hours (Bring a book and relax)

In the afternoon: Explore the Ometepe rock carvings

The ancient history around Ometepe is what makes it so special. Hundreds of years ago thousands of rock carvings were found all over the island describing the legends of Ometepe’s beginnings. You can find them all over the island and it’s a really fantastic way to cast one’s eye back and visualize the hands that may have carved these mysterious and beautiful etchings in the rock!

Museo Altagracia is one of the museums you can visit to see the rock carvings. You can even book a guide to help you explore them. The information online for booking is quite limited but rest assured when you get to the island, your hostel will be able to help you sort it out.

If you don’t get a chance to visit the museum, it is very likely you will find the rock carvings around the island, just keep your eyes peeled…Some of the best places to see petroglyphs are at Hotel Finca Porvenir and at Finca Magdalena.

After exploring the history of the island, I recommend making your way to Zopilote for sunset. Zopilote is another eco-community full of workshops, permaculture volunteers, and yoga sessions! I say make your way to Zopilote for a sunset yoga session. This side of the island is known for its free expression and wildness.

Ometepe Itinerary Day 2: For adrenaline junkies

Let’s get straight into it, you can’t go to Ometepe without summiting a volcano , it is an unwritten rule. 

Lucky for you, there are two of them to pick from! volcanoes Concepción and Maderas. Both have so much to offer and are very different.

Located on the north side of the island is Concepción Volcano. This volcano is mighty and active! 

This trek is for the brave few wanting to take on a challenge. The whole trip takes about 8-12 hours. You can find local guides near the volcano that charge around $30-50 USD to take you to the summit.

Well worth it in my opinion.

If you aren’t up for the challenge of Concepción Volcano you can always do the Maderas volcano. Located on the south side of the island, this volcano is much smaller (at 1,610 meters) and takes a total of 6-8 hours to get to the top. You can find a lake at the top of it to cool down at the end of your travels. Although it’s doable without a guide, you can find them at around $20-35 USD.

Although I’m DEFINITELY an adrenaline junky, I decided to do the trek to Maderas Volcano not on foot, but on a horse! You would be surprised by how easy it is to get a guide and a horse tour up a volcano…

I literally paid 30 USD for me and my horse Pistola ( gun in Spanish) and had SO MUCH fun. My guide took us trotting through fields and off the beaten path of banana trees up the volcano.

This was by far the highlight of my trip. I left with a few scratches from the jungle, but nothing a good first aid kit couldn’t fix.

• Cost – It’s free! (unless you take a guide)
• Getting there – Take any public transport option
• How long should you stay – The trek is all day.

Ometepe Itinerary Day 3: A sunrise you’ll never forget

Let’s Be Real.

You can’t see all the gems Ometepe has to offer in three days. But if you’re short on time and choose to leave after three days let’s make the last day count. 

Ometepe is a special place for so many reasons, one of them being the Fireflies that light up the dark sky. I recommend that on your third (and perhaps last) day, you wake up for the sunrise, and head to Playa Santa Cruz to watch the sunrise with a view of both Concepción volcano and Maderas volcano…

Panoramic views are the best. After a dip in the lake, you will thank Ometepe for the special time on the island. If you are lucky, you’ll be greeted by a sky full of stars and fireflies before the sun makes its appearance.

Stargazing was one of my favorite things I did on Ometepe. I saw SO MANY shooting stars and felt so grateful for my time in Nicaragua through the skyline. 

After your morning dip, you can stop by a local posada and have the famous Nicaraguan coffee (Be warned though, it’s super addictive!). 

After your morning cup, head to Ojo de Agua  (A natural spring pool) and soak in crystal clear water with the sounds of nature and views of the jungle. This was by far one of my favorite parts of my trip. On your way to the springs, you will see lots of streams and rivers you can jump into for a soak as well.

The ferry back to the mainland is limited to a few hours a day, so I would recommend going near the port for a chilled morning and a departure around 3 p.m. with an option to stay a bit longer (the last ferry leaves at 5 p.m.) 

Best Time To Visit Ometepe Island

Much like the rest of the tropical paradise found in Central America, the seasons here consist of Wet and Dry, yet the climate remains warm.

The wet time of year runs from May to October and the dry term is from November to April. If you want to visit the waterfalls on Ometepe, I recommend going towards the middle of the rainy season. I’ve been to the island during both seasons and have enjoyed it both times!

If you go during the rainy season though, enjoy the tropical water that is sure to soak you at some point. Take it as an opportunity to dance in the rain! 

How to Get Around Ometepe

All the seasoned travelers out there know the best way to travel in style;

drum roll, please…

Rent a scoopy !

Or the Nicaragua equivalent of a scoopy whatever that may be. Even an ATV works! 

I personally really loved how easy it was to get around. Plus in a little under 2 hours, you can do a loop around the WHOLE island! Making pit stops through pristine waterfalls and saying ‘Hi’ to the monkeys. (Careful though from personal experience, I wouldn’t bring bananas!).

So to tie it all together, here are the best ways to get around the island:

• Motorcycle 

(Car ofc but that’s a bit boring)

Getting around is very inexpensive too. You can look to spend around $5-15 a day for a reliable scooter rental or ATV to explore this jungle paradise.

Once again: Be aware!

The farm animals don’t really have a designated area in most parts of Ometepe. Often, you’ll see chickens, pigs, cows, and horses crossing the road abruptly..I happen to be a part of the unlucky category of tourists who had an unfortunate crash with one of the animals leaving me battered and bruised. 

Be safe, travel with insurance , and WATCH OUT FOR THEM ANIMALS.  

What to Prepare Before Visiting Ometepe 

Preparation is KEY when visiting remote off-grid islands. Here is what I wish I had known before visiting:

• Bring a  head torch ! Street lights are not common at night time, and chances are you will want a good flashlight for late-night adventures.
• Hiking Boots! I made the mistake of skipping out on quality hiking boots the first time around and missed out on lots of adventures. Especially if you plan on doing volcano treks, your feet will thank you. 
• A positive attitude . Discomfort isn’t always easy. Sometimes it takes all of our strength to keep on going. Coming to Ometepe, I had no expectations and let the discomfort teach me what it needed to, and I left a  bit wiser ( or at least I like to think I did). 
• BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE! Believe me when I tell you, this will be so helpful before visiting Ometepe. The jungle has a mind of its own sometimes.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Ometepe

This is a must! After my hard fall, I was so thankful to be covered.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

FAQs on Ometepe Itinerary

Find out what people want to know when planning their Ometepe itinerary.

What wildlife is on Ometepe?

Ometepe has monkeys, amphibians, little bears, deer, reptiles, insects, and much more. If you’re zoophobia, you’re gonna have some hard times. But the finest growth stems from the hardests experiences, right?

Where do you start a hike in Ometepe?

You can start from the Charco Verde Nature Reserve or the entrance near Santo Domingo Beach on the western side of the island. A great kickoff I beleive!

When is a good time to visit Ometepe?

The rainiest months in Ometepe are: August, September and October. For an optimal experience, head there during the dry season, spanning from November to April.

Final Thoughts on Ometepe Island

This is one of those places you can not miss. Your Central American backpacking trip will not be complete until you see this island. Here is a summary of how my trip went down:

I arrived with no expectations and ended up blown away. From the Eco lodges to the chocolate farms and cacao ceremonies. I was not expecting so much excitement so soon. As a solo traveler, I even had plenty of opportunities to meet people through workshops, parties, and tours through the volcano. 

Even if it’s somewhat off the beaten path, you won’t regret adding the hidden gems of la Isla de Ometepe to your Nicaragua itinerary.

Ometepe thank you for the sweet memories and the even sweeter cacao. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Amanda Draper

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11 Best Things To Do On Ometepe Island Nicaragua: Ultimate Guide [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 35 mins read
• Post last modified: February 10, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

As you may already know, Nicaragua is full of surprises. Its Ometepe Island is not an exception. It’s the destination that  every traveler should see  when traveling in Nicaragua. This island has everything from the natural reserve to adventure activities, volcanoes, relaxation, and coffee experiences. I spent 4 days on Ometepe Island , and it was one of the most unique travel experiences I’ve had.

So, I’ve compiled a list of the  11 best things you can do in Ometepe . It also includes the best way to get around, prices, best restaurants, and more.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

List Of 11 Best Things To Do On Ometepe Island & Map

Let’s dive into the 11 best things you can do on Ometepe Island. Here is a quick overview of all the activities on Ometepe Island:

1. Drive around the island on a scooter 2. Hike up a volcano 3. Visit Ojo de Agua 4. Explore Charco Verde Natual Reserve 5. Go Zip-Lining 6. Enjoy coffee at Centro PUMA 7. Practice Yoga at El Zopilote 8. Go kayaking 9. Stare at the sunset at Punta Jesus Maria 10. Walk up the Waterfall San Ramon 11. Visit the El Ceibo museum

1. Drive Around The Island On Scooter

The  best way to explore Ometepe Island  is to rent a scooter or an ATV. This way, you’ll be flexible and can see the island at your own pace.

Local buses  also run in between bigger towns on the island. However, they’re often super crowded and take much time to get from one place to another.

The first activity I recommend doing on Ometepe Island is to  drive around on a scooter . Do a circle from  Santo Domingo via Merida  around the island towards Balgue and return to your accommodation.

Moyogalpa is the first place you’ll arrive by ferry. So rent a scooter there, and drive to your accommodation after.

2. Hike Up A Volcano

One of the most popular things on the island is hiking up a volcano. Ometepe island composes of two volcanos:  Concepcion  and  Maderas volcano .

The  Concepcion volcano  is more popular to hike. It’s also a  better option  as it’s drier and the views are much more stunning than from Maderas. It’s slightly  longer  to hike up than to Maderas volcano, but it’s generally  easier and more beautiful .

Hiking up the  Maderas volcano  is more challenging because the  way is quite muddy . As the volcano  has a little lake inside , it’s very humid, and there is a lot of mud on the way.

Hiking The Concepcion Volcano

The entire excursion takes the  whole day . The organizer usually picks you up at 5:30 a.m. from your hotel/hostel. The  hike up takes around 4 hours , and down between 3 to 4 hours. You’ll come back to your hostel/hotel at around 6:00 p.m.

The  price for the excursion  is $20, including pick up, transfer, and a guide. In addition, you have to pay a $3 entrance fee. Your hotel can organize the excursion for you, just ask at the reception.

NOTE:  Walking any of the volcanos by yourself is impossible. The government prohibited it due to many accidents in the past.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Nicaragua Itinerary: 7 Days With Map & Tips

3. Visit Ojo De Agua

You can visit the crystal-clear water pool created from a natural spring on Ometepe Island. It’s called Ojo de Agua, which means ‘water eye’ in English.

This natural phenomenon is filled with water from the Maderas volcano thanks to its underground river. So now you can say that you swam in the volcano water. Pretty amazing, right?

You can swim, enjoy yourself on the shore, read a book, listen to an audiobook , and sip some delicious local drinks or fresh coconut water.

The entrance fee is $10 per person . You’ll get 2 vouchers : $5 voucher for the pool entrance and another $5 voucher that you can use for drinks or food. You can spend as much time as you want.

4. Explore Charco Verde Natural Reserve

Charco Verde is a natural reserve in the southern part of Ometepe.

You can visit it by paying an entrance fee of 175 cordobas . Firstly, there is a butterfly sanctuary , where you can explore various kinds of butterflies. It’s quite a chilled place with relaxing music in the background.

Afterward, you can walk through the forest around the Lagoon of Charco Verde . The best part is that you can see monkeys in the trees on the way.

Towards the end of the walk around the lagoon, you’ll get amazing views of the Conception volcano .

5. Go Zip-Lining

Before entering the Charco Verde Natural Reserve, hop on a zip-line adventure.

They give you full gear, and you’ll be  zip-lining above the jungle , seeing the Charco Verde, and even getting stunning views of Lake Nicaragua.

So, this might be an option to  see Charco Verde from above . There is one bridge on the zip line and three stops altogether.

Entrance:  $17 per person

6. Enjoy Coffee At Centro PUMA

Centro PUMA is located in Altagracia town. It’s a cute coffee place where locals use the income and donations from guests to support local schools and children . In addition, they provide extra curriculum programs for local children in the center, mainly English classes.

I was amazed by this coffee center and its program. The staff is very welcoming, explains their work, and lets you sit down or enjoy their hammocks even if you don’t order anything.

Their coffee is delicious ; they also have sweets, salads, and a few vegan options.

One thing you must try is their ‘Magical Fruit Experience’ . It’s a lot of fun, and the fruit is magical as it prevents you from feeling any acid in your mouth. So try it out for 200 cordobas.

7. Practice Yoga At El Zopilote

El Zopilote is a true paradise in the middle of Ometepe’s jungle . It’s a hostel located near Balgue town. This place attracts many backpackers and digital nomads, mainly thanks to its rich program . Every day, you have different things organized for you, such as:

• yoga classes
• family dinner
• cacao ceremony
• pizza night
• permaculture farm tours

The best is their yoga classes, cacao ceremony, and pizza nights (every Tuesday and Saturday). Yes, you can prepare the pizza yourself in the jungle, which is pretty amazing.

All the activities mentioned above are included in the price of your stay . You can still come for a yoga class even if you don’t stay. Just come into the reception and ask if you could join.

You can also visit the place and have lunch in their restaurant in the jungle.

8. Go Kayaking

You can go kayaking on an organized tour. Just imagine – what a unique experience kayaking on a lake with sharks inside.

Your kayaking experience starts near Peru Beach or Mango Beach. You’ll kayak through the River Istian and see the jungle and Nicaraguan flora from the water. Watch out for unique birds and other species. Maybe you can spot a few monkeys , too.

Ask your hotel/hostel if they organize a kayak tour for you. Or go to one of the scooter rental places in Moyogalpa, and they can sign you up.

The price for the kayak tour is $20 per person , including transportation, guide, and kayak rental.

9. Stare At The Sun Set On Punta Jesus Maria

Punta Jesus Maria offers the  best sunset experience on Ometepe Island . It’s a narrow spit of land stretching into Lake Nicaragua. If the lake has a lot of water than usual, the spit is not visible so much. Yet, it’s still nice to see.

Not only does this place have the best sunset experience. It also offers one of the most  spectacular views of the Concepcion volcano .

You can lie down on the beach and relax. There is a restaurant with drinks and food. And you can also get  fresh coconut water .

10. Walk Up The Waterfall San Ramon

San Ramon is the only waterfall on the island. It takes about 1 hour & 30 minutes to hike to see it.

Drive towards the old port of San Ramon ( Antiguo Puerto San Ramon ). Then turn left (if arriving from Merida) and drive until the road ends. Leave your scooter there and start walking.

NOTE: During the summer/dry season (December – April) has, the waterfall less or no water since it’s a dry climate. So before going there, check with locals or ask your hotel whether there is water at the time.

11. Visit El Ceibo Museum

Ometepe Island is well known for its  pre-Columbian history . Archeologists found many clay artifacts under the ground, which you can nowadays see in the Ceibo Museum . You’ll get a guided tour and learn about the  island’s history and artifacts . After, you’ll also get to try some delicious  homemade liquors .

Altogether, you can see pottery, funeral urns, weapons, and various tools.

What I particularly love about the museum is the second part, where they display  different currencies Nicaragua has had  from pre-Columbian times until now. I love to keep currency bills from each country when traveling. Here, you can see the  evolution and history of Nicaraguan currency , too.

👉 READ ALSO: Is Nicaragua Safe To Travel? Safety Tips For First-Timers

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Interesting facts about ometepe island.

Ometepe is a unique place. So, I’d like to start with some interesting facts about this island:

💡 Ometepe is the l argest freshwater island in the world 💡 It’s located in Lake Nicaragua, also known as Lake Cocibolca 💡 Ometepe has a volcanic origin 💡 The island consists of 2 volcanoes: Concepcion and Maderas volcano 💡 It’s famous for its rock art areas (that you can explore in El Ceibo Museum) 💡 The name Ometepe comes from the Nahuatl words ome (two) + tepetl (mountain)

Practical Tips For Visiting Ometepe Island

I want to make your stay as great as possible. So you can prepare and know what to expect . This way, you won’t waste any of your time once you travel. Below are further tips for your stay on Ometepe Island.

How Many Days Do You Need On Ometepe Island?

I recommend  staying 3 days and 3 nights  on Ometepe Island. It’s enough time to explore the top things and enjoy its activities.

Plan to arrive in the afternoon, check in to your hotel, and relax after your journey. Then,  spend 3 full days  on Ometepe Island doing the best things I suggested in this article.

Is Ometepe Worth Visiting?

Yes, Ometepe is 100% worth visiting . It’s one of the most unique places I’ve ever traveled to. The combination of amazing natural beauty, volcano, endless activities, and relaxation makes it a very special place. I’m sure you’ll love it. Make sure you visit El Zopilote and enjoy some yoga classes, too.

How To Get To Ometepe Island

The best way to get to Ometepe Island is to take a bus from a major Nicaraguan city . Then take a taxi to San Jorge to the port . The only way to get to Ometepe Island is by local ferry. So from San Jorge, you’ll have to take a ferry to Moyogalpa , the main town in Ometepe. The ferry ride from San Jorge to Moyogalpa (Ometepe) takes 1 hour.

👉 READ ALSO: How To Get To Ometepe Island – get further tips and detailed description

Where To Stay In Ometepe

Ometepe offers unique and beautiful accommodations . I took my time to do research and selected the best hotels and hostels on the island. I spoke to the staff, saw the rooms and hotel area, and got all the information.

These are the top hotels I recommend on Ometepe Island:

➡ Totoco Eco-Lodge ➡ Xali Beach Hotel ➡ El Zopilote ➡ Finca Mystica

👉 READ ALSO: Where To Stay On Ometepe Island

How To Get Around Ometepe Island

There are 2 ways to get around Ometepe Island: on a scooter/ATV or by local buses .

The best way to get around Ometepe Island is to rent a scooter or ATV .

Once you arrive on a ferry in the main town of Moyogalpa, you can rent a scooter, motorbike, or ATV for the entire stay. From there, you can drive to your accommodation.

I have 2 places in Moyogalpa where I recommend you rent a scooter:

Elmer Tours Ometepe

Ometepe verde tours.

Elmer Tour Ometepe is on the main pedestrian street in Moyogalpa, just a few meters from the ferry port. You’ll see it on your left-hand side when you walk from the ferry port.

Elmer is a nice guy renting scooters, motorbikes, and bicycles. He also organizes tours to the Concepcion volcano, kayaking, horseriding, tour around the island, or waterfall hike.

• Scooter Rental: $15 per day (from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm) / $20 for 24 hours
• Motorbike Rental: $25 for 24 hours
• Bicycle Rental: between $5 to $7 per bike (depending on the quality of the bike)

Ometepe Verde Tours is just a few meters further from Elmer’s place. They rent scooters, motorbikes, and ATVs. In addition, you can also book various tours with them:

• Scooter Rental: $15 per day (from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm) / $20 for 24 hours
• ATVs Rental: $50 for 24 hours

Best Restaurants In Ometepe

As for the best restaurants in Ometepe, there are a few I highly recommend.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN MOYOGALPA

• Soda Los Antojitos
• Cocina de Mami
• The Cornerhouse

BEST RESTAURANTS IN BALGUE

• Comedor Isabel
• El Zopilote

Best Beaches In Ometepe

I am not the biggest fan of beaches in Ometepe if I’m completely honest with you. So don’t expect something brilliant from the local beaches. Yet, if you’re a beach lover, you can still find a few to relax.

Note that the beaches get smaller if the lake has a lot of water . So they don’t always look great and are ready to host visitors.

Overall, Ometepe Island is a destination where you come to explore, do activities, and have fun in nature . If you want to relax on beautiful beaches , go to Popoyo or the Corn Islands.

I recommend the following two best beaches on Ometepe Island:

• Playa Santo Domingo
• Playa Punta Jesus Maria

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Ometepe. Check the answers below.

Why Is Ometepe Island Famous?

Ometepe Island is the largest freshwater island in the world . Besides, it’s famous for the Concepcion volcano and its position in Lake Nicaragua , the largest lake in Central America. Another fact about this lake is that it’s the only lake with sharks .

Ometepe is famous as an adventure island destination that offers unique sights and places.

Where Is The Best Sunset Spot In Ometepe?

The best sunset spot is Punta Jesus Maria or Moyogalpa , beside the ferry port . These places have the best sunsets. Overall, the sunsets on Ometepe Island are one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen.

What Can You Climb In Ometepe Island?

You can climb the Concepcion volcano in Ometepe. It’s only possible with a local guide; you can’t climb it alone due to past accidents. It takes up to 7 hours (up and down) to climb the volcano, and you’ll be picked up by the tour company around 6:00 a.m. to start the excursion.

Can You Swim In Ometepe?

Yes , you can swim in Ometepe. It’s best accessible from the beaches at Punta Jesus Maria and Playa Santo Domingo . I recommend staying close to the shore as locals say sharks are further into the lake.

WRAP-UP: 11 Best Things To Do In Ompete

These are the best activities on Ometepe Island, with further suggestions and tips you need to have before visiting. I’m sure you’ll have a great time as it’s one of the most unique destinations in Central America. Make sure to rent an ATV or a scooter to enjoy it fully and be flexible.

If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Nicaragua Travel

Looking to visit more places in Nicaragua? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Nicaragua Itinerary: 7 Days With Map & Tips

Is Nicaragua Safe To Travel To? Safery Tips For Travelers

Where To Stay In Ometepe Island

Where To Stay In Granada Nicaragua

Where To Stay In Leon Nicaragua

Where To Stay In Popoyo Nicaragua

How To Get To Corn Islands From Managua

Is It Safe To Fly From Lima To Cusco? Revealed!

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

NICARAGUA : Interested in more articles for Nicaragua? Check out my Nicaragua Travel Page .

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Finca El Porvenir

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 23
• Very Good 26
• All languages ( 65 )
• English ( 54 )
• Spanish ( 6 )
• French ( 5 )

" Rooms 11 through 15 are the nicest, being the most removed from the center of the hotel area. Wifi is only available in a small area by the reception desk. "

" Rooms are ok, rustic but very clean ! They can wash your cloths or you can wash it yourself. Do not forget that you can drink the water there.... Comes directly from the volcano and is delicious. The guide for the volcano is huge too. We staid 2 nights and we're not think. They find a solution for anything with a nice smile ! Honestly, really great "

" The room by the kitchen gets noisy in the morning and there is some smoke coming from the kitchen, so if you want less distractions - ask for a room in the back. "

" There are two older buildings and two brand new buildings, both comfortable. The older rooms are slightly larger and closer to the dining rooms, have thicker walls and are more sound proof. The newer buildings are a little more private, have nice porches with hammocks but the sound carries more between rooms. All rooms have fans. At night you will occasionally hear mangos dropping on the roof of the newer buildings. "

" We missed out on the prettier stone bathrooms, but did have a nice, quiet room a little away from the reception. "

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Finca El Porvenir - Reviews & Photos (Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua) - Guesthouse - Tripadvisor