Maderas: A Majestic Volcano Experience
Discover the enchanting beauty of Maderas Volcano on Ometepe Island, a natural paradise with breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Maderas is a breathtaking volcano located on the stunning Ometepe Island in Nicaragua. Known for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and picturesque hiking trails, it's a must-visit for any nature lover or adventure seeker. The volcano's serene crater lake provides a tranquil escape, and the panoramic views from the summit are simply unforgettable.
A brief summary to Maderas
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Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots; the terrain can be steep and slippery.
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience and to support the community.
- Don't forget your camera; the views at the summit are breathtaking!
Getting There
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Walking from San Juan del Sur
If you are in San Juan del Sur, take a taxi or walk to the ferry terminal. From there, take a ferry to Ometepe Island, which will take approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at the port (Moyogalpa or San Jose del Sur), ask for directions to Maderas, as the locals are familiar with this popular destination. You can then take a local bus or walk to the trailhead located about 10 km from the port.
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Bus from Moyogalpa to Maderas
From the Moyogalpa ferry terminal, catch a bus heading towards Santo Domingo. The bus will take you along the main road. Inform the driver that you want to be dropped off at the Maderas trailhead. It’s about a 30-minute bus ride. Once you get off the bus, follow the signs or ask locals for the starting point of the Maderas hike.
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Hiking from San Juan del Sur
From San Juan del Sur, hike towards the ferry terminal. Take the ferry to Ometepe Island. Once you arrive, follow the main road until you reach the town of Moyogalpa. From there, you can either take a local bus or continue walking to the Maderas trailhead, which is approximately 10 km away.
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Shared Taxi from Moyogalpa to Maderas
At the Moyogalpa ferry terminal, look for shared taxis (also known as 'colectivos') that go towards Maderas. These shared taxis usually carry multiple passengers and will take you directly to the Maderas trailhead. The ride will take about 20 minutes and is a convenient option if you're traveling with others.
Discover more about Maderas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finca Mystica
3.9 km
Discover the beauty of Isla de Ometepe at Finca Mystica, a serene eco-friendly hotel and nature preserve offering unforgettable experiences.
Hostel Finca Magdalena
4.1 km
Explore the authentic charm of Nicaragua at Hostel Finca Magdalena, where community, comfort, and adventure await in scenic Balgüe.
Zapote Ometepe
4.7 km
Discover the heart of Nicaraguan cuisine at Zapote Ometepe, where fresh ingredients meet stunning island views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Selvista Guesthouses
4.7 km
Experience the serenity of Selvista Guesthouses, a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and local culture in the heart of Nicaragua's breathtaking landscapes.
Hari's Horses
4.8 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Isla de Ometepe while horseback riding at Hari's Horses, where adventure meets the beauty of nature.
Finca Montania Sagrada
4.8 km
Discover the beauty of Isla de Ometepe at Finca Montania Sagrada, a charming bed & breakfast offering cozy accommodations and horseback riding adventures.
Hotel Congos Resort
4.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Isla de Ometepe at Hotel Congos Resort, your serene getaway in Nicaragua.
La Urraca Loca Hostel
4.9 km
Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking nature of Nicaragua at La Urraca Loca Hostel, your home away from home in Balgue.
Café Campestre
5.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nicaragua at Café Campestre on Isla de Ometepe - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Kaikaia Ometepe: Hostel
5.0 km
Discover the charm of Ometepe at Kaikaia Hostel—your cozy retreat amidst nature's wonders and vibrant local culture.
Bustavo Food Bus
5.0 km
Experience the best of Mediterranean cuisine at Bustavo Food Bus in Santa Cruz, where authentic flavors meet a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Hospedaje Así Es Mi Tierra
5.0 km
Explore the beauty of Nicaragua at Hospedaje Así Es Mi Tierra, where comfort meets authentic local culture amidst stunning natural landscapes.
El Zopilote Permaculture Farm / Hostel / Restaurant / Pizzeria
5.0 km
Experience sustainable living at El Zopilote Permaculture Farm, Hostel, and Restaurant on Ometepe Island, where nature and comfort harmoniously unite.
Raindance buen9
5.2 km
Discover the beauty of Isla de Ometepe at Raindance Hostel, where comfort meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Finca del Sol Eco Lodge
5.2 km
Discover tranquility at Finca del Sol Eco Lodge, a serene resort hotel in Santa Cruz, Nicaragua, where nature and comfort come together.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cascada de San Ramón
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de San Ramón, a hidden waterfall oasis in Las Cuchillas, Nicaragua, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Laguna Volcan Maderas
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Volcan Maderas, a tranquil lake nestled in Nicaragua's lush landscapes, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
El Mirador de Toto
2.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at El Mirador de Toto, the perfect spot for relaxation and photography in Santa Cruz, Nicaragua.
Mirador de Mario
2.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene moments at Mirador de Mario, the ultimate scenic viewpoint in Santa Cruz, Nicaragua.
Volcan Maderas National Park
3.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Volcan Maderas National Park on Ometepe Island, a paradise for nature lovers.
Totoco Eco-Lodge
3.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and sustainable living at Totoco Eco-Lodge, a perfect retreat for nature lovers in the heart of Balgüe, Nicaragua.
San Ramon ometepe
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking hiking trails of San Ramon in Ometepe, where lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls await every adventurer.
Piscina El Manantial(Camping area and typical food)
4.4 km
Experience tranquility at Piscina El Manantial, a refreshing pool and local culinary haven on beautiful Ometepe Island, Nicaragua.
Sendero El Porvenir Trailhead
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sendero El Porvenir Trailhead in Santa Cruz, a paradise for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
El Zopilote
5.0 km
Experience the serenity of El Zopilote, an eco-friendly retreat on Ometepe Island, where nature meets wellness and sustainable living.
El Pital Ometepe, Chocolate Paradise
5.2 km
Indulge in hand-crafted chocolates, organic coffee, and tranquil retreats at El Pital Ometepe's Chocolate Paradise, Nicaragua's sweetest destination.
Finca Jose Rios BIOMETEPE
5.3 km
Explore Finca Jose Rios BIOMETEPE, a tranquil eco-tourism destination in Santa Cruz, Nicaragua, showcasing stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Caiman's Tour on the rio istian
5.5 km
Explore the serene Rio Istian with Caiman's Tour for an unforgettable kayaking adventure amidst Ometepe's stunning landscapes.
Aventuras en la Isla
5.7 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich culture at Aventuras en la Isla, a top tourist attraction in Nicaragua.
Bird Watching Biometepe
5.7 km
Discover the vibrant avian life and serene landscapes at Bird Watching Biometepe in Mérida, a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Essential places to dine
Comedor Juliana
4.6 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at Comedor Juliana in Ometepe, where every dish tells a story amidst stunning natural beauty.
Margarita's Bar & Lunch
4.7 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at Margarita's Bar & Lunch in Mérida - where delicious flavors meet vibrant culture.
The Jungle Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine surrounded by breathtaking nature at The Jungle Restaurant in Mérida.
El Porvenir Albergue Ecológico
4.8 km
Discover eco-friendly lodging and authentic Nicaraguan flavors at El Porvenir Albergue Ecológico on picturesque Ometepe Island.
Café Comedor Isabel Traditional Nica Food
4.9 km
Discover authentic Nicaraguan flavors at Café Comedor Isabel in Balgüe – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Isla Bonita
5.0 km
Experience family-friendly fun at Isla Bonita – where adventure meets tranquility in beautiful Balgüe.
Buem rest en ometepe
5.0 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Buem Restaurant in Ometepe; a delightful culinary journey amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Mi Rinconcito Madera
5.0 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at Mi Rinconcito Madera in Balgüe – where delicious food meets breathtaking views.
La Poza Azul
5.0 km
Experience authentic vegetarian cuisine at La Poza Azul in Tichaná – a culinary haven showcasing local flavors in a serene setting.
Café mi Casita
5.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nicaragua at Café mi Casita in Ometepe – where every meal tells a story.
Pizzeria Mediterranea bar ristorante
5.1 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Pizzeria Mediterranea - the best pizza destination in El Madroñal, Nicaragua.
Raindance
5.2 km
Discover adventure and community at Raindance Hostel on Isla de Ometepe – your gateway to nature's wonders and cultural richness.
CASA PAPAKI
5.2 km
Discover authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at CASA PAPAKI in Santa Cruz, where every meal is crafted with love and tradition.
Healthy kitchen
5.3 km
Experience deliciously healthy dining at Healthy Kitchen in Ometepe, where fresh ingredients meet local flavors for an unforgettable meal.
Dragon's Garden Ometepe
5.5 km
Experience serene accommodations and delicious soul food at Dragon's Garden Ometepe, nestled on beautiful Isla de Ometepe.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Subli Ometepe
4.8 km
Explore the vibrant styles of Subli Ometepe, a clothing store in Mérida showcasing local craftsmanship and unique fashion pieces.
Pulpería Álvarez
5.0 km
Discover the charm of Pulpería Álvarez, a local general store on Isla de Ometepe, offering authentic Nicaraguan products and a glimpse into island life.
El Almendro
5.0 km
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Miscelanea Ometepe Sur.
5.3 km
Explore the cultural richness of Ometepe through authentic goods at Miscelanea Ometepe Sur in Mérida.
Tienda santa cruz
5.4 km
Experience authentic local shopping at Tienda Santa Cruz, where you can find groceries, snacks, and unique treasures in the heart of Santa Cruz.
Minimarket el limonal
5.5 km
Explore Minimarket El Limonal for an authentic Nicaraguan shopping experience filled with fresh produce and local delicacies.
Ometepe Mercadito Santa Cruz
6.2 km
Explore the vibrant Ometepe Mercadito Santa Cruz, a cultural market showcasing local produce, crafts, and the authentic spirit of Nicaragua.
ometepe kitesurf center
6.2 km
Explore the thrill of kitesurfing at Ometepe Kitesurf Center, where stunning landscapes and perfect wind conditions await water sports enthusiasts.
Libélula Café
9.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Libélula Café, where exceptional coffee meets the stunning landscapes of Isla de Ometepe.
El Oasis de Tere
10.5 km
Discover El Oasis de Tere on Isla de Ometepe, where local crafts and serene beauty unite for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Vidriería Altagracia Ometepe
15.2 km
Explore the enchanting world of locally crafted glassware at Vidriería Altagracia Ometepe, where unique home decor meets rich cultural heritage.
Zona Geek Ometepe
15.2 km
Explore Zona Geek Ometepe, a vibrant collectibles store in Altagracia, where pop culture meets local artistry in a unique shopping experience.
Grafika
15.2 km
Discover the vibrant world of custom printing at Grafika in Isla de Ometepe, where your creative ideas come to life on unique apparel.
Farfar Boutique
15.5 km
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Pulpería Seiko R.V
19.6 km
Discover the charm of Ometepe at Pulpería Seiko R.V, where local culture meets unique shopping experiences.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar y Restaurante Kalambu
5.2 km
Experience authentic Nicaraguan cuisine at Bar y Restaurante Kalambu in Mérida, Isla de Ometepe, where every meal is a taste of tradition.
Tiki Ometepe
6.3 km
Discover Tiki Ometepe, a tropical bar on Isla de Ometepe where refreshing drinks and stunning views create the perfect getaway.
Bar y Comedor El Puerto
10.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Bar y Comedor El Puerto, your perfect getaway in Ometepe.
Copas Bar
14.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Altagracia at Copas Bar, where locals and travelers enjoy delicious drinks and lively entertainment.
Copacabana Bar Lounge
14.9 km
Discover Copacabana Bar Lounge in Altagracia: a vibrant bar offering exquisite cocktails, live music, and stunning views for the ultimate nightlife experience.
Comedor Nicarao altagrasia isla de ometepe
15.1 km
Discover authentic Nicaraguan flavors at Comedor Nicarao in Altagracia, Isla de Ometepe - a culinary gem amidst stunning natural beauty.
Sport Bar La Casona
15.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Sport Bar La Casona in San José del Sur, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Rancho El Tigre
18.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rancho El Tigre, a lively bar in La Muñeca offering refreshing drinks and local culture.
Bar la taberna el baby
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Bar la Taberna El Baby in Moyogalpa, where local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Bar Gaia -Billares Mayuyo
22.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Gaia - Billares Mayuyo, a top sports bar in Moyogalpa, perfect for enjoying billiards and live sports.
Bar lago azul
22.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nicaraguan cuisine at Bar Lago Azul, a charming grill in the heart of Moyogalpa offering delicious grilled dishes and stunning views.
Kocha Bamba Tropikal
22.6 km
Experience the lively charm of Kocha Bamba Tropikal, a bar in Moyogalpa offering delicious drinks and a vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning island views.
Sport Bar Saturno
22.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Moyogalpa at Sport Bar Saturno, where great drinks and lively ambiance await.
Mis Birritas Bar
22.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Moyogalpa at Mis Birritas Bar, where local flavors and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
Cherry's Bar
22.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cherry's Bar in Moyogalpa, where refreshing drinks and lively atmosphere await every traveler.
