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.