Finca Magdalena

Isla de Ometepe


This Ometepe mainstay next to the Volcán Maderas trailhead is a classic backpacking spot. Rooms and dorms on this working coffee finca are set in a rickety old wooden farmhouse and are overdue for a revamp, but really – for the sweeping views of the lake and Volcán Concepción, lush surroundings and good food – you can rough it for a few days.

Note that it’s a 1.5km climb to the finca from the bus stop.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Isla de Ometepe attractions

1. Volcán Maderas

2.65 MILES

Climbing this 1394m volcano is challenging but worthwhile. Guides are required for the seven- to eight-hour round-trip trek (with four to five hours of…

2. Cascada San Ramón

3.58 MILES

This stunning 40m waterfall is one of the jewels of the island. The 3.7km trail begins at the Estación Biológica de Ometepe. You can drive 2.2km up to the…

3. Isla Grande

5.18 MILES

Close to Altagracia, this island, basically a plantain finca (farm) gone feral, is rarely visited despite being a fantastic place for birdwatching. If you…

4. Monoliths

7.39 MILES

A place to see some of the finest remaining ancient excavated statues on Ometepe is beside the Altagracia church, close to the Parque Central, where a…

5. Museo de Ometepe

7.43 MILES

The village's main attraction is this museum packed with information (in Spanish) about the island. (Though you’ll find a much more comprehensive…

6. Reserva Charco Verde

8.43 MILES

Rich with wildlife and fringed with black-sand beaches, this wooded ecological reserve is a quiet spot for hiking, birdwatching and taking a dip in the…

7. Volcán Concepción

8.57 MILES

This massive (and active) volcano is an Ometepe landmark. The seven- to 10-hour hike up loose volcanic stone to the summit of this looming peak can be…

8. Museos El Ceibo

11.1 MILES

The excellent Museo Numismástico (Money Museum) documents the troubled history of the Nicaraguan economy through its coins and banknotes. Across the road,…