The Island of Ometepe is like no other island in the world, and not just because it is the biggest volcanic lake island on our planet but rather its sensual shape, formed by two towering volcanoes wrapped in tropical forest. The island houses an extinct volcano (Maderas) and an active one (Concepcion) and a very friendly rural population. Starting early in the morning we will reach the small dock of San Jorge, where we take the ferry to navigate through the fresh waters of Lake Nicaragua that becomes well known when French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau identified freshwater bull sharks. If weather allows while crossing the lake, amazing vistas on Ometepe Island, lately designated UNESCO Biosphere, Mombacho volcano and Zapatera Island are enjoyed. Our first destination is the Numismatic & Pre-Columbian Museum, where we will learn about the culture of the different ethnic groups or tribes that inhabited the island of Ometepe, through its ceramics and tool for survival, presenting the artistic evolution of these ethnic groups, then we will be passing through different rural villages to reach the natural reserve of Charco Verde. An easy hour trek through this reserve will lead us to explore tropical wonders including birds, mammals, reptiles, plants, breathtaking landscapes and the famous “Charco Verde”, a natural little lake within the reserve surrounded by lush vegetation. Then we will continue our trip to “Playa Santo Domingo” where we will enjoy our delicious lunch in one of the restaurants by the shores of Lake Nicaragua, here you can also have a chance for a refreshing swim. After a succulent meal our exciting journey continues to the base of Maderas Volcano, an impressive cloud forest mountain located in the southwest of Ometepe. Here we will explore one of the farms of the area where several interesting petroglyphs are found, a strong evidence of Middle American cultures that developed in this part of the world. At the same time we will be able to learn about the different types of tropical fruit trees. Afterwards, we will drive back to Moyogalpa to take the ferry back to mainland to the continue to Colonial Granada.
Tour Duration: Full Day, approx. 10 hours
Departs: Must Depart from Granada at 06:30 & From SJS at 07:30 Hrs, due to Ferry Schedule at 09:00
What to Bring: Bottle of Water, Binoculars, Tennis Shoes, Swimsuit, Towel, Shorts and T-Shirt, Sunscreen, Camera
Includes: A/C Transportation, Bilingual Guide, Entrance fees to the different attractions & Lunch