If you want a unique island experience, come to Ometepe Island Nicaragua. The island rises out of the middle of Lake Nicaragua and is a magical place that you won’t want to leave. Stunning visas greet you around every corner and the wildlife experiences are amazing. There are some great eco-lodges and farmstays on Ometepe Island as well a good range of hotels and other accommodation. Ometepe Island has a relaxed vibe and is also a great place for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking and kayaking. This is the perfect place to disconnect from the outside world. The island is larger than you’d expect, so it’s perfect to hire an ATV and explore the island. Find out more in this Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide.
What is Ometepe Island Nicaragua famous for?
Ometepe Island is the largest island in Lake Nicaragua and is known for its two volcanoes – Volcán Maderas and the active Volcán Concepción. It is also renowned for being the world’s largest island in a freshwater lake. The island’s unique hourglass or figure 8 shape is formed by a narrow isthmus that connects the two volcanoes. Ometepe’s volcanoes can be seen from all parts of the island, making for a spectacular setting for your next holiday. Unsurprisingly, Ometepe Island is one of Nicaragua’s most famous tourist destinations. Additionally, Ometepe Island home to thousands of petroglyphs and stone idols that date back as far as 300 BCE, remnants of the original inhabitants of the island. As such, it is also one of the most important rock art areas in the world.
Why you should visit Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island is a must-visit destination in Nicaragua. Its two volcanoes dominate the landscape and provide a stunning backdrop for your Nicaragua vacation. The island has a relaxed atmosphere and attracts people from across the globe due to its amazing natural beauty. Some of the major attractions on Ometepe Island include the picturesque swimming spot Ojo de Agua, the magical chocolate farm and vegan cafe El Pital Chocolate Paradise as well as the stunning sunset spot Punta Jesús María. The island has a number of permaculture farms and there are several volunteer opportunities available where you can exchange your time and skills for accommodation.
The natural setting on Ometepe Island provides a fertile ground for many birds and animals to call it home. We loved getting close to colourful bird life, white-headed capuchin and mantled howler monkeys and other animals while we were there. An unmissable experience on the island is kayaking down the Río Istián and witnessing the wide array of wildlife on display. If you’re in more of a party mood, Playa Mangos is a great spot to listen to music while enjoying a drink overlooking the water. Whatever Ometepe Island adventure you choose, no doubt you will come away being moved by the unique beauty of this place.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua Destination Guide: Know before you go
Basic info about Ometepe Island Nicaragua
- First inhabited – 2000BCE-500BCE
- Language – Spanish; Many tour operators and hotel staff speak English, but if you prefer travelling and shopping local you will need a basic understanding of Spanish.
- Currency – Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO). Many hotels and restaurants also accept United States dollars (USD). ATMs dispense both cordobas and US dollars. For more details on money in Nicaragua, see this post.
- Population – 29,684 (2005)
- Area – 276 km2 (107 sq mi)
- Department (Departmento) – Rivas
- Emergency number – 118
- Police number – 101 (tourist police), 118 (police)
Utilities in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
- Electricity – Nicaragua uses Types A and B power plugs, which is the same plug type as the United states. It operates on a 120v supply voltage at 60Hz. Power outages in Nicaragua are not uncommon but generally don’t last for too long.
- Water – the tap water in Ometepe Island Nicaragua is not safe to drink. Most accommodation in Ometepe Island provides filtered water for guests to use.
- Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets are the most common type of toilet in Nicaragua. Don’t flush your toilet paper – use the bins provided. Public toilets are not common in Nicaragua, but you can usually find toilets in cafes and restaurants.
- Telephone country code: +505
Where is Ometepe Island Nicaragua?
Ometepe Island is the largest island in Lake Nicaragua in the department of Rivas Nicaragua. The island is located in the southwest of Nicaragua.
The closest city to Ometepe Island Nicaragua is Rivas. Ometepe Island is around one hour by boat and then a 12 minute drive from Rivas.
How to get to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Arriving by land
Ometepe Island Nicaragua intercity land transport
Most boats to Ometepe Island depart from San Jorge near the city of Rivas. There are also weekly ferries to Ometepe Island from Granada and San Carlos.
The main transport options for travelling overland to the ferry terminals for Ometepe Island Nicaragua are:
- Private vehicle
- Private transport operator
- Shuttlebus
- Bus
- Minivan
Driving to Ometepe Island Nicaragua from within Nicaragua
If you are driving to San Jorge Nicaragua on your way to Ometepe Island Nicaragua, here are the travel times and distances:
- Rivas – 12 minutes (4km, 3miles) without tolls
- San Juan del Sur – 38 minutes (32km, 20miles) without tolls
- Peñas Blancas border crossing to Costa Rica – 45 minutes (39km, 24miles) without tolls
- Granada – 1 hour 23 minutes (71km, 44miles) without tolls
- Masaya – 1 hour 27 minutes (77km, 48miles) without tolls
- Managua – 2 hours 11 minutes (103km, 64miles) without tolls
- León – 3 hours 23 minutes (187km, 116miles) without tolls
- Estelí – 4 hours 21 minutes (233km, 145miles) without tolls
- Las Manos border crossing to Honduras – 6 hours 4 minutes (334km, 208miles) without tolls
- Bluefields – 7 hours 10 minutes (390km, 242miles) without tolls
Intercity trains to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
There are no trains in Nicaragua.
Shuttle buses to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Shuttle buses operate between major tourist destinations in Nicaragua. You can often book these shuttles through your accommodation or through tour operators. Expect to pay around $15 per person for a shuttle between San Juan del Sur and the ferry terminal at San Jorge (as at 2021).
Additionally there are two shuttle bus companies that provide shuttle services to Nicaragua from other countries in Central America: Nicabus and Ticabus.
Local buses to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
A common way to get around Nicaragua is by using local buses. Tourists often call them chicken buses. Nicaragua public buses are old US yellow school buses that are often painted in bright colours. They have the destination on a sign at the front of the bus. Buses rarely leave on time, so patience is key. We also recommend that you ask about bus times at the station, particularly if you are considering a less regular route. Keep in mind that most locals, including local bus drivers, only speak Spanish.
To get to Ometepe Island by bus, first you will need to catch a bus to Rivas. From Rivas there is a bus to the San Jorge ferry terminal. However we weren’t able to figure out where the bus from Rivas to San Jorge departs from. Most tourists take a taxi or a tuk tuk from Rivas to the San Jorge ferry terminal. A taxi from Rivas to San Jorge costs around 65 cordobas for 2 people (as at 2023).
Common bus routes for Rivas Nicaragua:
| From | To | Bus Fare | Duration | Frequency/Departure Time |
| Granada | Rivas | C$50 | 2.5 hours | 5:50am, 6:30am, 8:05am, 9:30am, 11:30am, 12:40pm, 1:10pm, 3:10pm |
| Rivas | Granada | C$50 | 2.5 hours | 6:10am, 8am, 10:15am, 11:15am, 12:10pm, 1:55pm, 3:10pm 4:20pm and 5:55pm |
| Rivas | San Jun del Sur | C$30 | 45 minutes | |
| San Jun del Sur | Rivas | C$30 | 45 minutes | 5am, 5:45am, 6:30am, 7am, 8am, 8:25am, 9am, 9:30am, 10am, 10:45am, 11:30am, 12:10pm, 1pm, 2:20pm, 3:20pm, 5pm |
| Rivas | San Jorge (for ferry to Ometepe Island) | C$10 | 15 minutes | Hourly |
| Rivas | Peñas Blancas | C$20 | 40 minutes | Every 20 minutes |
The above bus fares are as at 2021.
Before the bus leaves as well as during the journey a number of vendors may get on the bus selling food and other goods. This is a great opportunity to get a snack for your trip or even do your grocery shopping.
Microbuses or minivans to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
An affordable but slightly more expensive alternative to buses in Nicaragua are microbuses or minivans. These vans generally seat around 10-15 people. They are generally only a few córdobas more expensive than buses. We personally think that buses are more comfortable than the minivans as people do get crammed into the minivans and minivans generally don’t provide much legroom. However you do always get a seat in minivans, albeit once my seat was just an upside-down crate in between two other seats. Microbuses can get you as far as Rivas Nicaragua. From Rivas we recommend taking a taxi to San Jorge ferry terminal and then catching a ferry to Ometepe Island. A taxi from Rivas to San Jorge costs around 65 cordobas for 2 people (as at 2023).
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Arriving by air
The only airport on Ometepe Island Nicaragua is Ometepe Airport, also known as Aeropuerto La Paloma de Ometepe (Airport code OMT). This airport is located 1.6km (1 mile) south of the town of Moyogalpa. The airline La Costeña used to operate flights to Ometepe Island twice a week. These flights connected Ometepe with Managua, San Carlos and San Juan de Nicaragua (Greytown). However as at 2023 commercial flights to Ometepe Island have been suspended due to low demand.
Other nearby airports include:
- Costa Esmeralda Airport in Tola Nicaragua (Airport code ECI). This airport is 45km (28 miles) away.
- Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (Airport code MGA) in Managua Nicaragua. This international airport is 93km (58 miles) away.
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (Airport code LIR) in Liberia Costa Rica. This airport is 101km (63 miles) away.
- Nosara Airport in Nosara Costa Rica (Airport code NOB). This airport is 169km (105 miles) away.
There is currently no national airline of Nicaragua. However airlines that service Nicaragua include American Airlines, Aeromexico, Copa Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Avianca Airlines as well as United Airlines. The domestic carrier in Nicaragua is La Costeña.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Arriving by boat
Ferries to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
There are a number of ferry services to Ometepe Island Nicaragua. Most ferries to Ometepe Island go from San Jorge, which is 15 minutes drive from Rivas. These ferries go to either Moyogalpa or San José del Sur on Ometepe Island. There are also weekly ferries from Granada and San Carlos to Ometepe Island.
How much are ferries to Ometepe Island Nicaragua?
Ferry fares for Ometepe Island Nicaragua are as follows:
The ferries will allow cargo for an additional cost. For more information and to make a reservation call 2552-6618 or 7829-0672.
There are also lanchas that operate between San Jorge and Ometepe Island. Lanchas are small wooden boats. They are slightly cheaper than the ferries, with a one way ticket from San Jorge to Moyogalpa costing C$35-C$45.
Nicaragua ferry timetable – San Jorge and Ometepe Island
The timetable for ferries between San Jorge and Ometepe Island (Moyogalpa and San José del Sur) is listed below:
Nicaragua ferry timetable – Granada to Ometepe Island and San Carlos
Ferries from Granada to Ometepe Island and San Carlos run once a week in each direction. Ferries depart from Granada at 5pm on Mondays, stopping at Altagracia on Ometepe Island at 9pm before finally arriving at San Carlos at 6am the next morning. The return journey departs from San Carlos at 5pm on Tuesdays, stopping at Altagracia on Ometepe Island at 1am before reaching Granada at 6am on Wednesday.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: How to get around Ometepe Island Nicaragua
As the largest island on Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe Island spans a big area. It takes around 1 hour to drive from one end of Ometepe Island to the other and the major attractions are spread out across the island. As such we recommend hiring a vehicle to get around the island.
Walking in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
The main towns and beach areas in Ometepe Island Nicaragua are very walkable. However Ometepe Island is too large for walking to be your sole form of transport on the island.
Local buses in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Local buses service Ometepe Island Nicaragua. This is a cheap way to get between the main towns on the island. However keep in mind that bus services on Ometepe Island are very limited on Sundays. There is a ring road that circles most of Ometepe Island and connects the towns and villages along the way. Buses to Ometepe Island start from Moyogalpa and make a stop at Altagracia before continuing through to Santa Cruz. The buses then finish their journey at either Balgüe or Mérida.
Bus stops on Ometepe Island Nicaragua
There are a number of bus stops on Ometepe Island. Locations of bus stops are marked on Google Maps. There may also be hand painted bus stop signs at the bus stop locations. We recommend catching the bus from the ferry terminal at Moyogalpa, the central park at Altagracia, on the main road near the turnoff to Ojo de Agua and on the main road at Playa Santa Cruz. If you are unsure of a bus stop location, ask at your accommodation.
Bus routes for Ometepe Island Nicaragua
There are two bus routes on Ometepe Island:
- Moyogalpa to Balgüe via Altagracia
- Moyogalpa to Mérida via Altagracia
These bus routes go in both directions. All buses run Monday-Saturday excluding public holidays. There are may be one bus in each direction in Ometepe Island on Sundays, but this is not guaranteed. Therefore we don’t recommend taking the bus on Ometepe Island on Sundays. Also keep in mind that buses in Nicaragua are not always very punctual.
Ometepe Destination Guide: Bus fares for Ometepe Island Nicaragua
We paid the following bus fares in 2021:
- Moyogalpa to Santo Domingo: C$35 per person
- Balgüe to Altagracia: C$15 per person
- Ojo de Agua to Santa Cruz: C$10 per person
- Balgüe to Santa Cruz: C$10 per person
- Santa Cruz to Mérida: C$12 per person
- Mérida to San José del Sur: C$30 per person
Ometepe Destination Guide: Bus timetables for Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Bus Timetable from Moyogalpa Ometepe Island:
The Ometepe Island bus timetable for buses going from Moyogalpa is listed below:
Bus Timetable to Moyogalpa Ometepe Island:
The Ometepe Island bus timetable for buses going to Moyogalpa is listed below:
Microbuses or minivans to Ometepe Island Nicaragua
An affordable but slightly more expensive alternative to buses in Nicaragua are microbuses or minivans. These vans generally seat around 10-15 people. They are generally only a few córdobas more expensive than buses. We personally think that buses are more comfortable than the minivans as people do get crammed into the minivans and minivans generally don’t provide much legroom. However you do always get a seat in minivans, albeit once my seat was just an upside-down crate in between two other seats.
Microbus fares for Ometepe Island Nicaragua
We paid the following microbus fare in 2021:
- Altagracia to Ojo de Agua: C$15 per person
Microbus timetables for Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Microbus Timetable from Altagracia to Balgüe Ometepe Island:
The Ometepe Island microbus timetable for buses heading away Moyogalpa is listed below:
Microbus Timetable from Balgüe to Altagracia Ometepe Island:
The Ometepe Island microbus timetable for buses heading towards Moyogalpa is listed below:
Trams in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua does not have a tram system.
Local trains in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua does not have a local train line.
Metro trains (subway or underground) in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua does not have an underground train line.
Vehicle hire in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Ometepe Island Nicaragua. This includes:
- Bicycles
- Motorcycles
- Cars
- ATVs
In Nicaragua they drive on the right side of the road.
Tuk-Tuks in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Auto-rickshaws or tuk-tuks are common in Nicaragua. They are a cheap and quick way to get from one place to the next. Agree on a price before you start your journey. Expect to pay around C$20-C$40 for a couple for a 10 minute trip. In 2021, we took a tuk-tuk after sunset from the main road near Punta Jesús María to the main town area of Moyogalpa for C$40 for the both of us. Tuk tuks may pick up other passengers along the way, so don’t be surprised if you have to share a ride with other passengers.
Taxis in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
One of the most convenient ways to get around Nicaragua is by taxi. Taxis in Nicaragua don’t generally have metres, so be sure to agree on a price before you begin your journey. Prices are based on distance, number of passengers and time of day. Taxis may pick up other passengers along the way, so don’t be surprised if you have to share a ride with other passengers.
A rough guide on taxi fares on Ometepe Island are as follows (as at 2023):
- Moyogalpa – Altagracia: US$15-25
- Moyogalpa – Santo Domingo: US$20
- Moyogalpa – Balgüe: US$25-$35
- Full day taxi – $US$120
The prices above are for up to 4 passengers.
Ride-share in Nicaragua
Uber, Lyft and Grab do not operate in Nicaragua. In Managua there are some alternatives:
- Aventón
- Ray Nicaragua
- inDriver
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Is Ometepe Island Nicaragua worth visiting?
Ometepe Island is certainly worth visiting and is our number one favourite destination in Nicaragua. If you’re looking for the perfect destination in Nicaragua, Ometepe Island is a must-visit. This magical place is beyond stunning and offers plenty of activities to suit all tastes.
The island has two volcanoes, one of which is active, providing a spectacular setting for your Nicaragua vacation. For those who enjoy active pursuits, there’s plenty to do, including hiking, cycling, swimming, and kayaking. If you prefer to relax by the beach or pool, Ometepe Island is also perfect for you. History buffs may enjoy exploring the island’s petroglyphs, which date back thousands of years. The island also has farming communities that produce organic produce such as coffee and cacao products. There are plenty of great restaurants and attractions to discover on Ometepe Island. Furthermore, it’s the ideal place to get close to nature, with plenty of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: How long to spend in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
We highly recommend staying for as long as you can on Ometepe Island. We were here for 3 weeks and we didn’t want to leave! It is such a stunning place with epic views around every corner. Ometepe Island is the also the perfect place to relax, unwind and be at one with nature. If you’re short on time we recommend devoting at least one full day on Ometepe Island. If you hire an ATV you can see most of the sights on Ometepe Island in a day. Keep in mind that ferries to Ometepe Island operate between 7am and 5:45pm each day.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: What to do in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua is a stunning Nicaraguan island which is full of interesting activities. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Free things to do in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
There are enough free activities in Ometepe Island Nicaragua to keep you entertained for as little or as long as you like:
- Punta Jesús María
- El Pital Ometepe
- Playa Santa Cruz
- The pool at Totoco Eco-Lodge (restaurant patrons have free use of the pool)
- Playa Mangos
- Aeropuerto La Paloma de Ometepe (scenic spot)
- Playa El Perú
- Playa Santo Domingo
- Playa San Fernando
- Playa Bambú
- Parque Municipal De Moyogalpa
- Parroquia de Santa Ana
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Paid activities in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
A number of attractions in Ometepe Island Nicaragua charge a fee:
- Volcán Concepción (Concepcion Volcano) – entry fee 100 cordobas or $3 USD (as at 2023). A guide is also recommended – expect to pay around $15 USD per person for a guide for groups of 2 or more or $20 USD for a guide if hiking solo (as at 2023).
- Volcán Maderas (Maderas Volcano) – entry fee 50 cordobas (as at 2023). A guide is also required – expect to pay around $15 USD per person for a guide for groups of 2 or more or $20 USD for a guide if hiking solo (as at 2023).
- Ojo de Agua – entry fee $10 USD for foreigners, including a $5 USD voucher that can be used for food or drinks (as at 2023).
- Río Istián – around $25 USD per person for a kayaking trip (as at 2023).
- La Cascada de San Ramón (San Ramon Waterfall) – entry fee 100 cordobas or $3 USD (as at 2023).
- Laguna Charco Verde (Charco Verde Lake) – entry fee 175 cordobas or $5 USD (as at 2023).
- Museum El Ceibo – this museum consists of two exhibition halls. There is a coin exhibition and a pottery exhibition. Entry fee $5 USD for one exhibition or $8 USD for both (as at 2023).
- Turismo Rural Los Ramos – cultural cooking classes, Spanish classes and workshops available for a fee.
- Centro PUMA – a cup of locally produced coffee is 50 cordobas (as at 2023).
Events in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua events include:
- Año Nuevo – New Year’s Day 1 January. Typically celebrated with bombas (fireworks) in the street as well as setting alight effigies.
- Semana Santa – Holy Week (Easter), March or April. During both the Christmas to New Year and the Semana Santa holiday periods it is common for local families and friends to flock to the beach. If you don’t like crowds then it is best to avoid Ometepe Island at these times.
- Moyogalpa Patron Saint festivities – Moyogalpa’s patron saint is Saint Anne. Moyogalpa’s patron saint festivities are celebrated between 23-26 July. Saint Anne’s feast day is 26 July.
- Hípica Ometepe Moyogalpa (Hípico en Ometepe) is a horse riding festival (hipica festival) which includes horse parades as well as plenty of food, music and dancing. It is usually on the last Sunday in July to coincide with the feast day of Santa Ana.
- Sandinista Revolution Anniversary – 19 July. This is a celebration of the National Liberation Army’s defeat of the Somoza dictatorship in 1979.
- Altagracia Patron Saint festivities – the patron saint of Altagracia is San Diego de Alcalá. The Altagracia patron saint festivities are celebrated between 12-18 November each year. The feast day of the patron saint is 12 November.
- Hípica Ometepe Santo Domingo (the Hipica festival in Santo Domingo Ometepe Island) is usually on 3-5 December each year. This coincides with the feast day of the patron saint of Santo Domingo, Santa Barbara. The feast day of Santa Barbara is December 4.
- La Purísima – 29 November – 8 December. This festival celebrates the Virgin Mary.
- La Gritería – 7 December, the final day of La Purísima. It culminates in a parade, fireworks and performances.
Weather in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
The climate for Ometepe Island Nicaragua is classified as tropical, with relatively uniform hot temperatures and also high humidity throughout the year. The hottest month is May with an average temperature range of 25°C to 32°C (78°F to 90°F). Conversely the coldest month is January with an average temperature between 23°C to 29°C (74°F to 85°F). There are two main seasons in Nicaragua; a wet season that typically commences in May and continues through to the end of October; and the dry season, which lasts from November through to April.
Best time to visit Ometepe Island Nicaragua
The best time to visit Ometepe Island Nicaragua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. We wouldn’t recommend visiting Ometepe Island during the wet season, as any unsealed roads can get bogged down and can be difficult, if not impossible, to use. Additionally, the ferry ride to Ometepe Island may be rougher during the wet season. Most parts of the island are better enjoyed when it’s dry, with the exception of San Ramón Waterfall, which is more spectacular after heavy rain. Keep in mind that Ometepe Island gets particularly busy during Semana Santa (Easter) and Christmas holiday periods as both locals and foreign tourists flock to the beaches. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend avoiding those busy periods.
Internet and mobile phones in Nicaragua
The main internet and phone companies in Nicaragua are Tigo and Claro. Tigo has the widest coverage but is slightly more expensive. Both currently operate on 4G. Movistar is another common provider.
The phone messaging app Whatsapp is used extensively in Nicaragua, along with the other popular social media platforms.
High speed optic fibre internet is available in some areas of Nicaragua. The best speeds we’ve experienced have been around 40 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload. More common speeds that we have found in city hotels have been 4-5 Mbps download and 1-2 Mbps upload (as at 2021). Free wifi comes standard with most accommodation and you can find free wifi in many restaurants and cafes catered to tourists.
Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in many places throughout Nicaragua, including local corner stores known as pulperias.
For more on internet in Nicaragua, see this post.
How much to budget for Ometepe Island Nicaragua?
Is Ometepe Island Nicaragua expensive?
Ometepe Island is a great value Nicaragua destination. While the island has million dollar views, it does not come with a high price tag. There is a good range affordable accommodation available and there are plenty of free or cheap activities to enjoy. If you are looking for a unique island getaway with stunning views from every angle, Ometepe Island is an excellent choice.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island Nicaragua is a great value budget destination. There are no luxury hotels on the island, but there are a range of really nice mid-range options available.
As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:
- Low-budget daily spend – US$60 per day for a couple will get you hostel accommodation, meals at local eateries, local transport and free or cheap activities such as going to the beach.
- Mid-range daily spend – US$150 per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, local transport and a few tours.
- Luxury spend – while there’s some amazing accommodation and experiences on Ometepe Island, this is not a luxury destination.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Accommodation in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Ometepe Island Nicaragua. Each property has its own unique view of the island and other qualities that make it special. Airbnb also operates in Nicaragua, and there are a number of Airbnb properties in Ometepe Island Nicaragua.
Where to stay in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island is a surprisingly big island. It takes around an hour to drive from one end of the island to the other, and there are a number of different towns and villages dotted around the island. We have a guide to the best places to stay on Ometepe Island below.
Most convenient place to stay on Ometepe Island – Moyogalpa
Moyogalpa is the largest town on Ometepe Island and serves as the main port with regular ferries to San Jorge on the mainland. It offers a great range of shops and restaurants, a couple of ATMs as well as plenty of accommodation, transport options and activities. If you like having modern conveniences on hand, this is the place for you. The main attraction near Moyogalpa is Punta Jesús María, which is the perfect place to watch the sunset. It is also one of the few spots on the island where you can get a photo of both Ometepe volcanoes in the same shot.
We recommend the following accommodation in Moyogalpa Ometepe Island Nicaragua:
- Best hostel in Moyogalpa Ometepe Island Nicaragua – Hostal Y Mirador Papasito is a gorgeous new hostel on Ometepe Island. The rooftop area has amazing sweeping views across the island. The dorms are clean and comfortable and the staff are fantastic.
- Best hotel in Moyogalpa Ometepe Island Nicaragua – if you’re looking for a tranquil oasis close to town, we highly recommend Hospedaje Soma. We stayed there ourselves and were impressed by its lovely garden area and beautiful pool. The open air undercover restaurant area overlooks the pool and the gardens and serves delicious breakfasts each morning. The rooms are clean, comfortable and a good size with a porch at the front. The hotel is safe and secure with a security guard on duty at night. It’s located in a quiet part of town, making it an ideal place to come and relax. One of our favourite features of this hotel was its super fast internet which makes it perfect for digital nomads.
Best place for ecotourism on Ometepe Island – Balgüe
Balgüe is a popular spot to connect with nature and experience an alternative lifestyle. Located at the foot of Volcán Maderas are a number of permaculture farms which grow organic coffee and cacao. Our favourite place in Balgüe is the vegan cafe and chocolate factory El Pital Chocolate Paradise.
We recommend the following accommodation in Balgüe Ometepe Island Nicaragua:
- Best farmstay in Balgüe – Hostel Finca Magdalena Eco Lodge is a charming community-run farming cooperative. It is the ideal place for nature lovers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in a remote part of the island, the road to get here is challenging but worth it. The lodge grows its own organic coffee, which guests can enjoy during their stay. The friendly people at the lodge make you feel right at home.
- Best guesthouse in Balgüe – we stayed at Ananda Guesthouse. This beautiful property has unrivalled views of Volcán Concepción. We loved the manicured gardens and the comfortable and spacious rooms. Our bathroom even had views of Volcan Concepcion! The kitchen equipped with a water filtration system is available for guests to use. We enjoyed delicious breakfasts overlooking views of Volcán Concepción. The only downside was the dogs on the property that bark aggressively at guests.
- Best eco hotel in Balgüe – we visited the restaurant and pool at Totoco Eco-Project. The property is high up on Volcan Maderas and has spectacular views of Volcan Concepcion. The views are worth the strenuous walk to get here. Restaurant patrons can use the pool for no extra cost. The pool is lovely with some of the best views in the area. Their cacao smoothies were delicious. This place is a great place to come for sunset views.
Village life experience on Ometepe Island – Mérida
Mérida is a rural village located on the far side of Ometepe Island at the base of Volcán Maderas. The village is accessible via a dirt track and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. There are a number of great activities near Mérida including kayaking down Río Istián, hiking up San Ramón Waterfall (La Cascada de San Ramón) and visiting the party beach Playa Mangos.
We recommend the following accommodation in Mérida Ometepe Island Nicaragua:
- Best hostel in Mérida Ometepe Island Nicaragua – Hostal Los Chocoyos has a secluded position on Lake Nicaragua. While the facilities themselves are quite simple, this is the perfect place to surround yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquil setting and incredible sunsets. The staff are friendly and attentive and ensure you have a pleasant experience.
- Best farmstay in Mérida Ometepe Island Nicaragua – Finca Mystica is the perfect place to rest and relax. The setting is magical and you can hear the sounds of the jungle as you drift off to a comfortable sleep. The rooms and clean and hygienic, the staff are wonderful and the food is first class.
- Best guesthouse in Mérida Ometepe Island Nicaragua – we stayed at The Jungle and had a thoroughly enjoyable stay. The local family that run this guesthouse are lovely and really go out of their way to make your stay special. Sunsets from the balcony are spectacular and we also enjoyed relaxing in hammocks and admiring the garden setting. Finally, we must mention the delicious Nicaraguan breakfasts that were served up each morning and made for a great start to every day!
Best beachfront accommodation on Ometepe Island – Santo Domingo, San Fernando, Santa Cruz
If you want to spend your days relaxing at the beach, there’s no better place to stay than at the isthmus of Ometepe Island around Santo Domingo, San Fernando and Santa Cruz. The beaches in this area are calm and inviting with gorgeous views of both Volcanoes. Along the beachfront there are plenty of great accommodation options to choose from. There are also some great farmstays nearby. Additionally, there are some great restaurants in this area and it’s a short drive from the gorgeous swimming spot Ojo de Agua.
Best accommodation in Santo Domingo Ometepe Island Nicaragua
We recommend the following accommodation in Santo Domingo Ometepe Island Nicaragua:
- Best hotel in Santo Domingo Ometepe Island Nicaragua – we highly recommend Hotel Villa Paraiso. We stayed there ourselves and had a wonderful stay. The hotel is beautiful and right on the beach at Playa Santo Domingo. They are spread out nicely throughout the garden area overlooking the beach, providing a sense of privacy and tranquillity. Each cabana also has its own private balcony area. The wifi isn’t the strongest, but it’s adequate. The closest ATM is in Altagracia, so be sure to bring enough cash with you for your stay. One of the highlights of our stay here was their breakfasts. You have a choice of a few different breakfast dishes and the restaurant area flows over a few different sections, all with great views out to the beach. Be aware of the local blue jay birds. They are very cute, until they aggressively go after your food! The hotel has a pool as well as cabanas right on the beach.
Best accommodation in San Feranando Ometepe Island Nicaragua
We recommend the following accommodation in San Fernando Ometepe Island Nicaragua:
- Best hotel in San Fernando Ometepe Island Nicaragua – Xalli Beach Hotel is a lovely hotel right on the waterfront at Playa San Fernando. Although we were unable to stay there ourselves due to it being fully booked at the time, we have heard great things about it. The rooms are spacious and clean with very comfortable beds. Additionally, the garden and common areas are exquisite. The staff also go above and beyond to make your stay exceptional.
Best accommodation in Santa Cruz Ometepe Island Nicaragua
We recommend the following accommodation in Santa Cruz Ometepe Island Nicaragua:
- Best hostel in Santa Cruz Ometepe Island Nicaragua – Hostel Santa Cruz Ometepe is a peaceful place with amazing views of Volcano Concepción. The staff are very nice, breakfasts are delicious and the rooms are clean and comfortable.
- Best hotel in Santa Cruz Ometepe Island Nicaragua – El Encanto Garden Hotel is in a beautiful garden setting at the base of Maderas Volcano with amazing views of Concepción Volcano. The service is excellent, the food is great and the place has everything you need, including a shared kitchen.
How much is accommodation in Ometepe Island Nicaragua?
For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:
- Budget accommodation – US$5-$13 for a bed in a dorm.
- Mid-range accommodation – US$20-130 for a private room.
- Luxury accommodation – there is no luxury accommodation on Ometepe Island.
- Rental property – US$40-230 a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua destination guide: Food in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
How much does food cost in Ometepe Island Nicaragua?
Our price guide for your food budget in Ometepe Island Nicaragua is as follows:
- Restaurant meal – US$10-15 for a main dish (350-500 cordobas)
- Local eatery – US$3-5 for a main dish (100-200 cordobas)
- Street food – US$1 (30-40 cordobas)
- Beer (try the local Nicaragua beer Toña) – US$1 (30-40 cordobas)
- Local fruit drink (refresco) – US$0.30-0.50 (10-15 cordobas)
Must eat food in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
- Gallo pinto
- Desayuno Nica (Nicaraguan breakfast)
- Decadent chocolate desserts and vegan smoothies from El Pital Chocolate Paradise
- Fresh locally-caught fish from Lake Nicaragua
Cheap Eats in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
- You can’t go past street food for a cheap and delicious treat. Our favourite street food includes enchiladas, nacatamales, hamburgesas and raspados. Street food in Ometepe Island is not as common as in other parts of Nicaragua. However there are some local markets and fritangas. There are also a street food vendor near Parque Municipal De Moyogalpa.
- Bakeries are a great place to get cheap and delicious food.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua culture
Weekends in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Weekends in Ometepe Island are on Saturdays and Sundays. Public transport may be less frequent on Sundays.
Ometepe Island Nicaragua public holidays
Public holidays for Nicaragua are as follows:
- New Year’s Day – 1 January
- Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday) – the Thursday before Easter Sunday, typically in March or April
- Good Friday – the Friday before Easter Sunday, typically in March or April
- Easter Sunday – typically in March or April
- Labor Day – 1 May (holiday on the Monday if it falls on a weekend)
- Mother’s Day – 30 May
- Sandinista Revolution Anniversary – 19 July
- Battle of San Jacinto – 14 September
- Independence Day of Nicaragua – 15 September
- Indigenous Resistance Day – 12 October
- All Souls Day (Day of the Dead) – 2 November
- Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Immaculate Conception Day) – 8 December
- Christmas Eve – 24 December
- Christmas Day (Navidad) – 25 December (holiday on the Monday if it falls on a weekend)
- New Year’s Eve – 31 December
National symbols of Nicaragua
- Nicaragua flag – two blue bands with a white band containing the Nicaragua coat of arms in the middle. The blue bands represent the Pacific Ocean as well as the Caribbean Sea and the white band symbolises peace.
- Nicaragua coat of arms – this consists of a triangle, the Cap of Liberty, a rainbow, the rays of sun as well as 5 Volcanoes. The Cap of Liberty represents national freedom, the 5 Volcanoes represent the original 5 member states of the United Provinces of Central America and the rainbow and sun represent the bright future of Nicaragua.
- National flower – sacuanjoche (the flower of the frangipani tree).
- National bird – guardabarranco.
- National heroes – poet Rubén Dario, revolutionary leader Augusto C. Sandino.
Nicaragua pastimes
- National dish – gallo pinto. This is a dish of fried rice mixed with red beans and also spices. It can be eaten at any time of day. It is typically served at breakfast along with eggs, tortillas, fried plantains as well as a type of cheese called queso fresco.
- Popular drinks – grama, Toña beer, Flor de Caña Rum.
- National sport – baseball.
- Religion – 56% Catholic, 28% Protestant, 1% Jehovah’s Witness (as at 2010).
Is Ometepe Island Nicaragua Safe?
Nicaragua travel guide: Safety in Ometepe Island Nicaragua
Ometepe Island has a laid back vibe and is a safe place to visit. Be careful on the roads as there are some unsealed roads particularly around the Volcán Maderas side of the island. Also be careful on the roads at night as roads there may not be street lights outside of town areas. Additionally, take care if you decide to hike either of the Volcanoes as the hikes are tough. We also recommend hiring a guide for any Volcano hikes to keep you safe and ensure you don’t get lost.
General safety considerations in Nicaragua
Other general safety considerations for travel in Nicaragua:
- Drinking water – Tap water in Ometepe Island Nicaragua is not safe to drink. Most accommodation provides purified water.
- Mosquitoes – The mosquitoes in Ometepe Island don’t generally carry tropical diseases. Nicaragua also has mosquito control programs.
- Scorpions – Ometepe Island has scorpions. Check your shoes before putting them on and keep bags closed when not attended to ensure you don’t get any nasty surprises.
- Road safety – In Nicaragua we often travelled standing up in the back of vans or in vehicles without helmets or seat belts. This does come with an element of risk. Furthermore the roads outside of the town area are unsealed and are not well lit.
- Water safety – take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect. Also keep in mind that there are bull sharks in Lake Nicaragua.
- Earthquakes – Nicaragua experiences regional and local earthquake activity. In an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If inside, get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
- Volcánic eruptions – there are two Volcanoes on Ometepe Island – Volcanoes Concepción and Maderas. Volcán Concepción is an active Volcano and last erupted in 2010.
- Hurricanes – Ometepe Island is not typically significantly affected by hurricanes. You may get some heavy rain during hurricane season and blackouts may occur.
- Sun safety – The UV Index is very high in Nicaragua. Therefore sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important.
- Dogs – stray dogs are common. For more on dog safety, watch this video.
As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.
Nicaragua Blogs
You can find our Nicaragua blogs below.
Esteli Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Ometepe Island Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Masaya Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
San Juan del Sur Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Managua Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Leon Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Granada Nicaragua Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Transport in Nicaragua – Complete Guide to Nicaragua Transportation (2024)
Where should I live in Nicaragua?
Top 5 Things to do in Managua Nicaragua (2024)
Granada Ferry: How to get to Ometepe Island
Nicaragua Costa Rica Border Crossing: Complete Travel Guide
Home Invasion in Granada Nicaragua
Ojo de Agua: Paradise in Nicaragua!
How Good is the Internet in Nicaragua?
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