Nicaragua > Leon > Omepete Island
OMEPETE ISLAND

This incredible island is located inside Lake Nicaragua, and is formed by two volcanoes, Concepción 4,430 feet (1610 mt) above sea level, and Maderas 3,833 feet (1,394 mt).

Moyogalpa the main city and port, is 25 miles (43 km) south of Granada. Aboard the Hydrofoils, the trip takes only 50 minutes. The presence of the volcanoes is constant as life circles around these two colossus. The Concepción is a dormant volcano, while the Maderas is extinct and covered by a deep cloud forest and a lagoon on the top of the crater. The island used to be a ceremonial place for ancient Indians. Many petroglyphs and stone idols are found in different archaeological sites and in the town of Altagracia as well. The tour follows the road around both volcanoes and along the narrow strip that connects them.

Ometepe is a soft adventure tour. The itinerary provides a total blending with nature from the moment you leave Granada, through the lake and throughout the entire expedition. Groups will enjoy lunch in Santo Domingo beach.
The Hydrofoil service operates only on Saturdays and Sundays. The rest of the week boat service is available in San Jorge (1:30 hour from Managua).

Highlights:
-Sightseeing tour around the Volcanoes.
-"Punta la Paloma", (Pigeons Point) is a beautiful peninsula covered with trees, allowing the visitor a cool shadow for all day. The view is incredible. It is located at a few minutes from Moyogalpa.
-"Santo Domingo Beach", a narrow strip between the two volcanoes. Passengers can either eat at a local restaurant or in Altagracia. Nearby the road crosses a cool and crystal natural spring water creek.
-"Altagracia", an old Indian settlement that evolved into a small sleepy town. The old spanish church with its collection of Indian stone idols is a good photographic spot.
-"The Local Museum": with its collection of old Indian pottery and other findings.
-"Maderas Volcano Climbing", only for those in good physical condition. The ascent takes 5 to 6 hrs. Reaching the top with its small lagoon is worth the trail. The best time of the year for this climb is December to April.
Note: During the rainy season it gets much more difficult to climb it.
-"Nature observations": along the tour you will be able to see monkeys and birds.
-"Valle Verde": beautiful cove surrounded by nature.


Omepete View.


Concepcion Vol.


Maderas Vol.


Ompete View.