Caballito's Mar

Isla de Ometepe


In Mérida, look for a turnoff to this simple little guesthouse-hostel right on the beach, with great lake views from the waterfront bar-restaurant. Choose between basic dorms, private rooms and cabins. This is the best place to start guided kayak tours of the Río Istiam (US$25 per person) or DIY trips to nearby Isla del Congo.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Isla de Ometepe attractions

1. Volcán Maderas

3.69 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

3.87 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. Reserva Charco Verde

4.96 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…

4. Isla Grande

6.44 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…

5. Volcán Concepción

7.14 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…

6. Museos El Ceibo

7.54 MILES

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

7. Museo de Ometepe

7.93 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…

8. Monoliths

7.94 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…