Granada Ferry: How to get to Ometepe Island

Ferries from Granada across Lake Nicaragua have restarted on the 4^th of October 2021. This is great news for tourism in Nicaragua as it provides a great alternative for travelling in Nicaragua. In this blog we’ll outline everything you need to know about the Granada – Altagracia – San Carlos Ferry.

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Why did the Granada ferry stop running?

The Granda to Omepete ferry didn’t operate between 2016 and 2021. This was due to low water levels in Lake Nicaragua.

What alternatives are there to the Granada ferry?

Granada to Ometepe Island by bus and ferry

An alternative for travelling between Granada and Ometepe Island is to catch a combination of buses as well as a ferry. Specifically:

• Firstly, a bus from Granada to Rivas – bus fare is 50 cordobas (as at 2021). Buses go from the bus terminal Nueva terminal de buses a Rivas which is close to the Maxi Palí supermarket. Buses leave at 5:50am, 6:30am, 8:05am, 9:30am, 11:30am, 12:40pm, 1:10pm, 3:10pm. Note that the 3:10pm bus does not run on Thursdays or Sundays.
• Next, another bus from Rivas to San Jorge – bus fare is 10 cordobas (as at 2021). We couldn’t find the bus to San Jorge, so we walked, but we managed to find a bus on the way back. Alternatively there are taxis and tuk tuks available.
• Finally, a ferry from San Jorge to either Moyogalpa or San Jose del Sur on Ometepe Island – ferry ticket is 50 cordobas plus 35 cordobas for the port tourist tax (as at 2021).

Ferry timetable – San Jorge to Ometepe Island

Time	Days	Vessel	Vessel Type	Port on Ometepe	Fare
07:00:00	Every Day	Ferry El Che Guevara	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
07:45:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
08:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Arcia Ferry 3	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
09:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Ferry Cacique Nicarao	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
09:30:00	Every Day	Ferry (El Rey de Cocibolca)	Car Ferry	San José	C$50
10:30:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
11:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Estrella del Sur)	Boat (Lancha)	Moyogalpa	C$45
12:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Arcia Ferry 3	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
12:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Santa Martha)	Boat (Lancha)	Moyogalpa	C$35
13:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Ferry Cacique Nicarao	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
14:30:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
15:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Estrella del Sur)	Boat (Lancha)	Moyogalpa	C$45
16:00:00	Every Day	Ferry El Che Guevara	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
16:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Arcia Ferry 3	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50
17:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Santa Martha)	Boat (Lancha)	Moyogalpa	C$35
17:00:00	Every Day	Ferry (El Rey de Cocibolca)	Car Ferry	San José	C$50
17:45:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Car Ferry	Moyogalpa	C$50

Ferry timetable – Ometepe Island to San Jorge

Time	Days	Vessel	Port on Ometepe	Fare
05:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Ferry Cacique Nicarao	Moyogalpa	C$50
06:00:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Moyogalpa	C$50
06:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Santa Martha)	Moyogalpa	C$35
06:45:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Arcia Ferry 3	Moyogalpa	C$50
07:00:00	Every Day	Boat (Estrella del Sur)	Moyogalpa	C$45
07:30:00	Every Day	Ferry (El Rey de Cocibolca)	San José	C$50
09:00:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Moyogalpa	C$50
10:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Arcia Ferry 3	Moyogalpa	C$50
11:00:00	Every Day	Ferry El Che Guevara	Moyogalpa	C$50
11:30:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Ferry Cacique Nicarao	Moyogalpa	C$50
12:30:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Moyogalpa	C$50
13:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Estrella del Sur)	Moyogalpa	C$50
14:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Arcia Ferry 3	Moyogalpa	C$50
15:00:00	Not Sunday nor Public Holidays	Boat (Santa Martha)	Moyogalpa	C$50
15:00:00	Every Day	Ferry (El Rey de Cocibolca)	San José	C$50
16:00:00	Every Day	Arcia Ferry 4	Moyogalpa	C$50
17:30:00	Every Day	Ferry El Che Guevara	Moyogalpa	C$50

Bus from Granada to San Carlos Nicaragua

We travelled between Granada and San Carlos in August 2021. At this time the Granada ferry wasn’t in operation. Consequently, the journey required multiple long bus rides. However we decided to make the most of the journey and see some of the towns and cities along the way.

Our bus journey included the following:

From	To	Price Per Person	Duration
Granada	Masaya	C$15	45 minutes
Masaya	Tipitapa	C$15	1.5 hours
Tipitapa	Boaco	C$40	2 hours
Boaco	Camoapa	C$28	1.5 hours
Camoapa	San Francisco	C$25	1 hour
San Francisco	Juigalpa	C$40	1.5 hours
Juigalpa	San Carlos	C$120	4 hours

Alternatively you could get the following buses:

From	To	Price Per Person	Duration
Granada	Managua	Approx C$30	1.5 hours
Managua	San Carlos	Approx C$200	5.5 hours

Both local buses as well as microbuses opperate between Granada and Managua. Microbuses are minivans that have less stops, are generally more comfortable but are more expensive.

When did the Granada ferry restart?

The National Port Authority, also known as the Empresa Portuaria Nacional or EPN ran the first trip from Puerto Granada on Monday October 4^th 2021 at 5pm. The Grand Opening of this route was celebrated with festivities on the afternoon of the first trip from Granada.

How often does the Granada ferry run?

The Granada Ometepe ferry runs once a week in each direction between Granada and San Carlos. It will also make a stop at Altagracia on Ometepe Island on the way.

Ferries from Granada to Ometepe and San Carlos departs from Granada Nicaragua at 5pm on Mondays. This is perfect for anyone who wants to travel from Granada to Ometepe Island, Granada to San Carlos or Ometepe Island to San Carlos.

The return journey will depart from San Carlos at 5pm on Tuesdays, returning to Granada on Wednesdays. This is perfect for anyone who wants to travel from Ometepe to Granada, San Carlos to Granada or San Carlos to Ometepe Island.

How much is the Granada ferry?

Fares are as follows:

From	To	Passengers Aged 5+	Children Under 5 Years
Granada	San Carlos	C$200	Free
Granada	Altagracia	C$100	Free
Altagracia	San Carlos	C$150	Free

The ferries will also allow cargo for an additional cost. For more information as well as to make a reservation call 2552-6618 or 7829-0672.

How long does the Granada ferry take?

The ferry is an overnight ferry. It leaves at 5pm and then gets to its destination the next morning.

Where is Puerto Granada?

Puerto Granada is on the shore of Lake Nicaragua. It is a 15 minute walk from the Central Park of Granada.

Where is Puerto Altagracia?

Puerto Altagracia is one of three ports on Ometepe Island. Altagracia is on the northern end of Ometepe Island. It is also on the side of Volcan Concepcion. The port is 2.6km from the Municipal Park of Altagracia.

Where is Puerto San Carlos?

Puerto San Carlos is on the banks of Lake Nicaragua. It is also at the start of Rio San Juan. Moreover, San Carlos is the gateway to the Rio San Juan area. This area includes the historic town of El Castillo as well as the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve. San Carlos is also conveniently close to the border to Costa Rica. You can cross the border from Nicaragua to Costa Rica at San Pancho.

About Lake Nicaragua

Lake Nicaragua is known by many names, such as Lago Cocibolca, Lake Granada, Mar Dulce, Gran Lago and Gran Lago Dulce. This freshwater lake is the largest lake in Central America. It is also the 19^th largest lake in the world. Additionally, it is home to a series of 365 small islands known as Las Isletas. These islands were formed 20 thousand years ago as a result of a volcanic eruption from nearby Mombacho Volcano. The largest island on Lake Nicaragua is Ometepe Island, which is home to 2 volcanoes. Another island of note is Isla Zapatera, which has centuries old petroglyphs.

Why you should visit Granada Nicaragua

We lived in Granada Nicaragua for a year. It is, of course, our favourite city in Nicaragua. Granada is a charming colonial city full of colourful buildings as well as beautiful architecture. Additionally, its location in the centre of Nicaragua makes it a convenient base for exploring Nicaragua. Furthermore, there is a wide variety of accommodation options available in Granada to suit all budgets.

Where to stay in Granada Nicaragua

We recommend the following accommodation in Granada Nicaragua:

• Best hostel in Granada Nicaragua – Hostal De Boca en Boca is one of the best hostels in Granada Nicaragua. It’s clean and comfortable with delicious free breakfasts. There is a spacious common area and it also has a well equipped kitchen.
• Best value hotel in Granada Nicaragua – We highly recommend staying at Hotel La Gran Sultana for budget friendly accommodation in Granada Nicaragua. We stayed here ourselves and thought it was a great value option. It’s also conveniently located, has a pool, delicious breakfasts and a spectacular rooftop area.
• Best hotel in Granada Nicaragua – Hotel Jardín de Granada is one of the best hotels in Granada Nicaragua. It has an amazing garden and pool area. It is within easy reach of the major attractions of the city whilst also being in an area that is peaceful and quiet.
• Best luxury accommodation in Granada Nicaragua – If you are after an impeccably presented villa and a luxurious experience in Granada Nicaragua, you can’t go past Casa Bubu Guesthouse. The team at Bubu offer exceptional service in a little piece of paradise.

Rental Properties in Granada Nicaragua

For self contained accommodation we recommend Granada Property Services (GPS). GPS are property agents with listings that cover luxury colonial homes as well as smaller units. On the higher end of the scale, a luxury home with a pool will cost anywhere from $100 USD to $250 USD per night. In contrast, a condo will cost around $30 USD to $50 USD per night.

While in Granada we recommend sampling the local cuisine. Specifically, one must eat dish native to Granada is vigorón. This dish includes yucca, salad and pork crackling which is known as chicharrón. It costs around 60 cordobas a serving. Don’t forget to wash it down with a drink that is also local to Granada known as grama refresco natural. This is a drink made from a type of grass and tastes very similar to Coca Cola. Refrescos naturales are usually sold for 10 cordobas a serving.

A day of sightseeing in Granada could include:

• A trip to the Chocomuseo
• A ride on a horse and cart through the city
• A tour of the beautiful churches and cathedrals
• And finally, dinner on the famous Calle La Calzada

Granada is very centrally located. Consequently, there are plenty of day trips that you can do from Granada Nicaragua. Some of the best day trips from Granada include:

• A boat ride to Las Isletas
• A day trip to Laguna de Apoyo
• Hiking Mombacho Volcano
• Visiting the active volcano in the nearby city of Masaya

Why you should visit Altagracia Ometepe Island Nicaragua

Ometepe Island is a picture perfect island. It is also home to two volcanos. This island is a magical place and has to be seen to be believed. We love the laidback lifestyle on the island as well as the amazing natural beauty of the area.

About Altagracia, Ometepe Island

Altagracia is one of the major towns in Ometepe Island. It is also conveniently located in the centre of the island. Furthermore, it is a short drive to the beautiful swimming spot Ojo de Agua (entry to Ojo de Agua is $5 USD per person, or 175 cordobas). Altagracia is also less than an hour drive from some of the best beaches on Ometepe Island.

Beachfront Accommodation on Ometepe Island

For a comfortable hotel by the beach we recommend Hotel Villa Paraiso.

Eco Lodge on Ometepe Island

For an eco lodge experience on Ometepe Island we recommend Finca del Sol.

Luxury Accommodation on Ometepe Island

For a luxurious experience with one of the best pools on Ometepe Island we recommend Totoco Eco Lodge. This beautiful resort offers bungalows with breakfast included.

What to do on Ometepe Island

While you’re on Ometepe Island, don’t miss the following amazing Nicaraguan experiences:

• Sunset at Punta Jesus Maria
• Swimming at one of the many beaches around the island such as Playa Santa Cruz or Playa Los Mangos
• Getting your fill of chocolate at El Pital Chocolate Paradise
• Kayaking down Rio Istian with El Caiman Kayak Tour

Why you should visit San Carlos Nicaragua

San Carlos is a beautiful portside city with plenty of restaurants and accommodation options. San Carlos is the capital of the department of Rio San Juan. Furthermore, it located at the junction of Lake Nicaragua and Rio San Juan. It is also a great stop over when on your way to Costa Rica. You can cross the border at nearby San Pancho.

Budget Accommodation in San Carlos Nicaragua

For a comfortable low budget option, we recommend staying at Hotel Gran Lago. Don’t forget to check out the great views of the lake from the balcony of the hotel!

What to do in San Carlos Nicaragua

While in San Carlos we recommend:

• Getting a meal with a view at Restaurante Kaoma or Restaurante Granadino
• Watching the sun set from the Malecon de San Carlos

While you’re in the area we recommend taking a launcha 2 hours down the Rio San Juan to the riverside village of El Castillo. This sleepy little village is home to a historic fort which fended off pirate attacks in the 1600s, the British in the 1700s and also played a role in the California gold rush era in the 1800s! You can also do a tour of the Indio Maiz nature reserve, home to some of the richest flora and fauna bioversity in the world. Here you can see plenty of wildlife such as monkeys, poisonous frogs and crocodiles.

Final thoughts on the Granada ferry

The reopening of the Granada – Altagracia – San Carlos ferry is great news for tourism in Nicaragua. Moreover it will provide a lot more options when planning your next Nicaragua vacation. We highly recommend taking this ferry to explore all that Nicaragua has to offer!

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