Ometepe – Climbing the Concepción volcano

About this tour

The Concepción volcano is one of the two volcanoes that make up the island of Ometepe, and offers one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes in the region. At around 1,610 metres, Concepción is an active volcano and one of the most impressive in Nicaragua. Climbing this volcano is a real adventure, requiring good physical condition and stamina. The trail, which generally starts from the town of Moyogalpa, climbs through banana fields, dense tropical forests and finally rocky, arid areas close to the summit.

The hike takes between 8 and 10 hours round trip, and is generally guided for safety reasons, as the terrain is rugged and conditions can be unpredictable. On the way up, hikers can observe a wide variety of flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, colourful butterflies and orchids. As you approach the summit, the vegetation becomes sparser and the slope steeper, offering spectacular views of the island and Lake Nicaragua.

Once at the summit, weather permitting, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Ometepe Island, Lake Nicaragua and beyond. The smoking crater adds an impressive dimension to the experience. However, altitude can mean strong winds and cooler temperatures, so prepare accordingly. The descent, although demanding on the knees, still offers opportunities to admire the landscape from another angle.

The ascent of Concepción is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a must for lovers of outdoor challenges. The combination of natural beauty, physical challenge and the excitement of climbing an active volcano makes for an unforgettable experience.