Exploring the volcanic giants of Nicaragua

Scored with fault lines, Nicaragua’s landscape is as varied as it is restless. Volcano trekking and boarding, sure to thrill even the most experienced traveler, are mere snapshots of the many activities the country has to offer. Its diversity and sense of the unknown have captured the imaginations of adventurers and explorers for centuries. Today, the patchwork of pristine forest, crumbling cities, sparkling crater lakes, and towering volcanoes provides a playground for adventurous travelers. With countless opportunities on offer, knowing which volcanoes in Nicaragua to visit can be a tricky task. Taking your safety into consideration, here’s the ultimate list of Nicaraguan volcanoes that are worth the challenging efforts one needs to go through to see them up close. Who knows, seeing an active volcano in the flesh may just be the ultimate memory from your Nicaraguan vacation.

8 of the best Nicaragua volcanoes to visit

From the Santiago Crater at Masaya Volcano National Park to Maderas Volcano at Lake Nicaragua, it’s time to discover the best volcanoes in this Central American paradise.

Masaya volcano

Masaya is undoubtedly the most impressive of all Nicaragua’s volcanoes, and there’s never been a better time to visit than now. With the most recent eruption taking place in 2008, it’s one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua.

In the depths of a black pit called the Santiago Crater, red-hot magma continuously churns and splutters: a living creature in an eternal rage. There are only about 10 of these permanent lava lakes in the world, but Masaya’s ‘waterfall’ of molten rock is unique and caught the attention of adventurer Sam Cossman.

Back in 2016, the daredevil descended 1,200ft into the mouth of Masaya, where he installed over 80 different sensors that will measure temperature, humidity, pressure, carbon dioxide, and other factors. This achievement means that the volcano can now be monitored continuously and hopefully increase evacuation time for local people.

Masaya is, undoubtedly, an unforgettable experience. Our local experts will take you right to the crater’s edge, where you can look into the ‘gates of hell’ and witness the power of an active volcano.

Cerro Negro volcano

If standing at the mouth of the smoking summit isn’t enough of a thrill, you can always board down one. Volcano boarding is much like snowboarding, just this time, you’re speeding down a steep mountain of black, volcanic rock.

Cerro Negro, located just outside of León, is still active, and fluorescent figures racing down its onyx slopes are a common sight. This relatively young volcano (only formed in 1850) is made mostly of penny-sized stones, which allows thrill-seekers to ‘surf’ down the slopes at a speed of up to 30 miles per hour (48km per hour).

But be warned, this is not for the faint-hearted. As the saying goes, ‘what goes up must come down’, and reaching the summit is the first part of the adventure. Volcano riders must hike up the mountain of loose rock for about 45 minutes to the ‘drop zone’. From there, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the volcanic landscape, an alien scene of undulating black peaks. Riders can choose to sit or stand on their wooden boards and race down the slopes for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Telica volcano

Consisting of overlapping volcanic cones and craters, Telica is possibly one of the most unique destinations on this list. It takes between three and four hours to ascend the steep slopes of loose volcanic sand.

However, the true gems of this volcanic region lie beyond its peaks. Not far from Telico is the village of San Jacinto, where you’ll find the geothermal plant known as the Hervideros of San Jacinto. The distinct smell of sulfur and bubbling hot springs make this such a noteworthy destination in Central America.

Momotombo volcano

Momotombo, resting on the northern edge of Lake Managua, is possibly one of the most perfect conical-shaped volcanoes you’ll ever see. It’s safe to say this volcano comes with some history, as a violent eruption in 1610 decimated the original colonial city of León Viejo. As a result, you’ll now find the city of León, located 18 miles (30km) west of the volcano.

Despite this devastation history, an eight-hour ascent of the volcano offers some of the most scenic vistas of the region. At the summit, you’ll be able to see the volcano’s crater, the Pacific Ocean, León, and the Masaya volcano in the distance.

Maderas volcano

Located on Ometepe Island alongside Concepción, Maderas is technically still active, although the most recent volcanic activity was over 3,000 years ago. This lack of eruptions means the volcano has some of the most diverse plant and animal life in the region.

You can choose to explore the forested region below, where stunning flora and fauna can be found. On the other hand, you can always trek up to the summit, where a misty crater lake awaits. This hike takes around five hours to complete, and it’s usually fairly muddy, making it a challenging but rewarding experience.

Mombacho volcano

Just a few miles southeast of the Apoyo Lagoon, you’ll find the towering Mombacho volcano. Alongside bubbling hot springs and fumaroles on the upper northern flank of the volcano, many of its best adventures can be found near its base.

In steps the wondrous Mombacho Cloud Forest Reserve, a 2,500-acre oasis teeming with wildlife. With countless numbers of plant and animal species dependent on this ecosystem, the chances of you seeing something that can only be found in this forest are pretty high. Simply put, a visit to Mombacho is one of the many off-the-beaten-track things to do in Nicaragua that few get to experience in their lifetime.

Concepción volcano

Possibly one of the most active volcanoes in the country, Concepción has the stereotypical shape that one imagines a volcano to have. The volcano is in an almost-constant state of small to medium eruptions as it often bellows ash into the atmosphere.

As it’s a fairly active volcano, it’s difficult to predict how safe it is to hike. That said, taking on the 10-hour trek and admiring views of one of the most scenic lakes in the world from its center is a truly special experience.

Apoyeque volcano

Wrapping up this list, consider visiting the shield volcano Apoyeque, which transformed the shape of Lake Managua. Although its last eruption dates back to around 50 BC, it has etched its way into Lake Managua, carving a distinct ball-like shape into it.

Fortunately, it takes about an hour to hike to the volcano’s crater, where majestic views of its lagoon await.

FAQs about the volcanoes of Nicaragua

Before you head off and begin planning your volcano-inspired trip to Nicaragua, here are some interesting frequently asked questions to keep in mind.

How many active volcanoes are there in Nicaragua?

There are currently four regularly active volcanoes in Nicaragua: Momotombo, Concepción, Telica, and San Cristóbal. Including dormant volcanoes that can still erupt, it is estimated that Nicaragua has 10 active volcanoes.

How many volcanoes are there in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua has 19 identified volcanoes, all of which range in size, activity, and impact on the region.

What is the biggest volcano in Nicaragua?

The largest and one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua is San Cristóbal, towering an impressive 5,725ft (1,745m).

Make it happen

Looking to explore the volcanic giants of Nicaragua but don’t know where to start? By pairing our tailor-made tours and local experts, you’re guaranteed to have one of the most memorable experiences possible. Discover how we can make your Nicaragua trip worthwhile.