Hike up Concepcion Volcano
Hiking to the top of Concepcion Volcano is one of the most difficult yet rewarding activities you can do in Ometepe. With the still active volcano standing at 1,610 meters, the hike to the summit and back is approximately 12 kilometers and can take between 8-10 hours. As far as climbing volcanos goes, the trek is considered relatively challenging (the hardest in Central America by some standards) albeit not particularly technical. The end of the extremely steep trek is typically a crawl on your hands and knees to the top of the volcano in the heat of the Nicaraguan sun, and so not for the faint hearted.
But don’t let that stop you! On a clear day, you can enjoy a 360-degree view from the Caribbean to the Pacific side of Nicaragua, although bear in mind that most days clouds obscure the crater at the very top. Given the level of difficulty, having succeeded getting all the way top can count as a significant achievement on any traveler’s Nicaragua and Central America bucket list.
A hike up Concepcion Volcano must be done with a registered local hiking guide. The trail is unmarked, steep and rocky at times. The parts around the summit can be dangerous in poor weather conditions without a knowledgeable local guide who knows which parts of the summit to avoid. Guides tours cost between $25 and $40 depending on whether you go solo or as a group.
Take a refreshing dip in Ojo de Agua
By far one of the most popular activities on the island, Ojo de Agua offers a cool respite from the day time heat of Ometepe. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, Ojo de Agua is composed of a natural spring with clear volcanic waters that are known to have medicinal healing qualities. With rope swings to help you swing into the pool in style, enjoy a relaxing swim with the fish or some cold drinks at the bar while embracing this splendid atmosphere.
Highly recommended to come early – 8 or 9am – to fully take advantage before the crowds pour in.
Learn to kitesurf at Kitesurf Ometepe
Lake Nicaragua, on which Ometepe island is located, is one of the best kitesurfing spots in Nicaragua with warm fresh lake water and steady winds between November and April. If you are looking to try an exhilarating new sport involving the wind, water and spectacular views of both Volcano Concepcion and Maderas, owner Jeremie’s Kitesurf Ometepe is the way to go.
A combination of kite control practice, body dragging with the kite in the water, and finally water starting on your board using the power of the kite and wind, kitesurfing classes will allow you to progress over the course of several days from beginner to independent rider ready to go out and ride solo. Kitesurfing is both an active and thrilling way to pass your time in Ometepe and can serve as a good starting point for future kitesurfing adventures in Central and South America.
Kitesurf Ometepe’s instructors are IKO certified (by the international Kiteboarding Organisation) and offer the safest teaching experience on the island and Nicaragua. No prior experience required – just come down to Santa Cruz beach to get started!
Visit San Ramon waterfall
If you’re in Ometepe during the wet season (June to October), San Ramon waterfall is a must do activity. Located on the southern part of Volcano Maderas, San Ramon stands at 64m high and is more inspiring than some of the other waterfalls in Nicaragua. Hike two hours to the waterfall or drive up on a motorbike on the dirt road (30 minutes’ walk after you reach the parking area) San Ramon is guaranteed to take your breath away with its volcanic waters flowing over the moss-covered boulders.
Keep your eyes out for the monkeys along the trail up to the fall!
Get a tattoo at Hakuna Matata studio
Looking for a more permanent memory of your adventure to Isla de Ometepe? Hakuna Matata has your back! Send in a reference tattoo of the style you would like, along with size and area of the body, and the friendly and talented owner of the studio, Manu, will provide you with a quote for a souvenir of a lifetime.
English, Spanish, German, Italian and French spoken!
As an extra plus, Hakuna Matata also happens to be the best party organiser on the island. Expect full moon and new moon techno, drum&base, and phytrance parties from dusk until dawn with fellow travellers and positive vibes. Don't miss the chance to have the party of your lifetime on Isla Ometepe!
Enjoy some drinks at Playa Mangos
On the other side of the island from Santa Cruz beach lies Playa Mangos beach, a heavenly spot to relax with spectacular views of Volcano Concepcion. The restaurant and bar serve some basic snacks and drinks and the swing hung above the water will make any Instagram influencer dream.
Take in the breathtaking views and chill out on the beach on one of the many sun beds. For those of you looking for a bit more action, Playa Mangos is also one of the best places on the island to rent kayaks and explore the lake for a few hours. Tours to Rio Istian can also be organized here.
Eat a vegetarian burger at La Sirenita Ometepe
Enjoyed Playa Mangos? Right next door is a serene spot appropriately named La Sirenita Ometepe with vegetarian burgers to die for. Also on the menu are vegan curries and a variety of natural juices (pineapple papaya and melon are favorites). It’s location in El Limonal means it is one of the best spots to watch Ometepe’s famous sunsets. Sirenita Ometepe’s owner, Lucas, also offers rustic cabañas to rent for those of you looking to make this magical place your home while exploring Ometepe.
Go kayaking on the Istian River
If you’re interested in exploring Ometepe’s rich wildlife and fauna, take a kayaking tour on the Istian River (another activity for the island's wet season). On the Volcano Maderas side of the island, a trip from Merida will take you 3 km across Lago de Ometepe before getting to the calm waters of the Istian. Pay attention and you'll catch a glimpse of a variety of native wildlife, including egrets, whistling ducks and jacanas. Howler monkeys also roam the treetops on the banks of the river, while turtles can be caught swimming in the shallow waters.
For those keen on a more relaxed but equally enriching experience, kayaks are also available for rent on Playa Mangos and Playa Peru.
Come and enjoy the magical Isla de Ometepe and all it has to offer!