Granada – Excursion to Mombacho Volcano

About this tour

Volcan Mombacho is one of the main natural attractions in the Granada region. The volcano, which rises to around 1,345 metres, is covered in dense rainforest and is home to a protected nature reserve. Although the volcano is considered active, it has been dormant for several centuries, making it a safe place to explore. An excursion to Volcan Mombacho is an opportunity to discover incredible biodiversity, admire spectacular scenery, and immerse yourself in a unique cloud forest environment.

The excursion generally begins with a climb by all-terrain vehicle from the entrance to the reserve, located around 10 kilometres from Granada. The winding, steep road passes through coffee plantations before entering the cloud forest surrounding the volcano’s summit. Once you arrive at the research station near the summit, there are several hiking trails to choose from, each offering different perspectives on the flora, fauna and surrounding landscapes.

The most popular trail is the ‘Sendero El Cráter’, a 1.5-kilometre circular route around one of the volcano’s craters. This trail is relatively easy and accessible to most visitors, offering breathtaking views of the city of Granada, Lake Nicaragua and the Isletas. On a clear day, it’s even possible to see as far as Volcan Masaya and other volcanic formations in the area. Along the way, you can spot a wide variety of plants, including orchids, bromeliads and giant ferns, as well as animals such as monkeys, sloths and endemic birds.

For more experienced hikers, the ‘Sendero El Puma’ is a longer and more challenging trail, around 4 kilometres long, which plunges deeper into the forest and explores more remote areas of the volcano. This trail offers more spectacular views and total immersion in the cloud forest, but requires a good level of fitness.

As well as hiking, the Mombacho Nature Reserve also offers activities such as guided tours of the café, birdwatching and even zip-line adventures through the canopy. Whatever type of activity you choose, an excursion to Volcan Mombacho is an unforgettable experience that will connect you with nature and offer lasting memories.

Guided naturalist tour ½ day