Build Your Own Adventure Through Nicaragua’s Cloud Forest and Volcanoes
Nicaragua beckons adventurous minds. The country is full of trails that wind through thick forests and volcanic wonders. Picture blissful mornings admiring colourful birds while sipping locally produced coffee. This Central American gem has that… and much more.
Nicaragua is also a place where volcanic peaks graze the sky and the verdant cloud forests of the highlands north of Managua bring refreshingly cool mists and fresh air perfect for mountain biking and hiking. Roosters crow in the pale pink sunrise and dirt trails weave past country fincas and coffee farms.
Which adventure will you choose?
Cycle through Cerro El Arenal Natural Reserve
The Matagalpa region is nicknamed “the pearl of the north” for its unmatched beauty. It’s known for thick cloud forests, mid-range temperatures and beautiful, untouched nature. With altitudes ranging from 700 metres to 1,500 metres, this is a green, coffee-growing region where waterfalls billow and rolling mountains stretch across natural reserves.
Cloud forests are the definition of lush—mossy and vine-tangled tree-filled wonderlands perfect for exploring by bike. The Cerro El Arenal Nature Reserve is a popular place for cyclists to experience that beauty. Located in the heart of Matagalpa, explore this place on two wheels through wooded areas, valleys and rushing rivers.
Don’t forget! Dry season in Nicaragua runs from November to April but cloud forest locations can be deceiving: bring sunscreen, plenty of water and appropriate layers for rain and moderate temperatures.
Hike through cloud forests in Matagalpa
Because Matagalpa is so lush, it’s bursting at the seams with flowers, plants, vines and trees in full bloom. For a hiker, it’s the ideal setting since every turn offers a beautiful view. Slow down and take note of the details: plants you’ve never seen before, unfamiliar bird songs overhead, a rushing waterfall off in the distance. There are several routes that wind through pretty cloud forests in Matagalpa and it’s easy to find a guide who knows their way around.
One of the best and most popular places to trek in this region is along the trails of the Cerro Apante reserve. Though some might find it tough on the legs, the panoramic views of the valley and coffee fields will make the workout worth it! Take in the views above the city with a sense of accomplishment. Know that the higher point of the reserve, the Buena Vista summit, sits at about 1,445 metres and because there’s substantial rainfall, the trails could be slick with mud.
Don’t forget! Hiking is about fully experiencing the surroundings, not powering through as fast as possible. Between viewpoints, keep eyes peeled for orchids and the area’s distinct giant tree ferns.
Fuel up in coffee country at Selva Negra
If you’re the type of traveller who wants your pick of several outdoor activities, Selva Negra, a country house in the mountains, is a one-stop-shop. Selva Negra (translating to “black jungle”) is also in the Matagalpa region in the highlands.
At an elevation of 1,300 metres, temperatures here usually sit somewhere between 21 and 25 C, ideal for travellers wanting to mountain bike or hike through the forest. Wake to birds chirping and start your morning with coffee that comes from this very spot. Watch for any of the 250 bird species flying through the trees. Afterwards, there are mountain biking tours, horseback riding, nature tours and about 20 kilometres of hiking trails nearby.
Watch for deer and howler monkeys screeching from the bushy landscape. By evening, retreat to one of the quaint cabins or partake in a nocturnal walk.
Don’t forget! This area has night activities, so a headlamp and reflective gear will come in useful. Since cloud forest climates can get muddy, bring waterproof trail shoes or boots.
Climb volcanoes in Masaya National Park
Nicaragua is a world of volcanoes (seven are still active!) that reach towards the sky. To climb a volcano to its rim is such a rewarding experience. Trekkers who aren’t nervous about steep inclines or fiery craters will fall in love. While there are several volcanoes to choose from, Masaya National Park guarantees an incredible day trip.
The park is Nicaragua’s largest and home to two volcanoes, Masaya and Nindirí, featuring five unique craters in total. Perhaps the most exciting or intimidating to explore is the Santiago crater. This is a 500-metre-wide opening that contains a ruby-red lava lake deep inside. It has been aptly nicknamed the “mouth of hell.” Climb the steps next to the crater to take in the view from the Bobadilla Cross. Note that this is an extremely exposed area, so hats, UV layers and water are essential along with proper hiking shoes.
For a bigger challenge, consider Sendero Los Coyotes, a five-hour hiking tour that brings adventurers through five different ecosystems to see dry tropical forest, lava flow formations, craters, stunning views and the lava lake.
Don’t forget! The park is just 23 kilometres from the capital, making it an easy day trip from Managua. When taking in active adventures from a city, always leave early in the morning to make the most of lower temperatures!
Sandboard down Cerro Negro
One of the most thrilling adventures that draws active travellers to Nicaragua is the chance to sandboard down Cerro Negro. When thinking of volcano experiences, you may think of climbing to the peak or watching eruptions while perched at a safe distance. But in Nicaragua, you can take in the views as you whiz down the black cinder cone of Cerro Negro.
Sandboarding is a great activity for Canadian travellers especially because it feels so similar to snowboarding—but without unpredictable ice patches or a chance of frostbite. It’s not every day that you can say you boarded down an active volcano!
Don’t forget! Most tour operators will include the sandboard rental so you don’t have to worry about equipment. Do worry about proper sunscreen though: sunburns can be worse on an exposed black surface at elevation!
This article was sponsored by Visit Nicaragua
From mountain trails to volcanic slopes, your next great Nicaraguan escape awaits. Head over to www.goway.com to plan an experience like no other.
