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Lago Cocibolca
Lago Cocibolca (also known as Lake Nicaragua) is the largest lake in Central America.
Encompassing 3,191 square miles, Lake Nicaragua is linked to the Caribbean by the Rio San Juan and is home to migrating freshwater sharks, tarpon, and sawfish.
Ometepe Island
For most visitors, Lake Nicaragua’s focal point is Isla de Ometepe, commonly known as Ometepe Island.
Ometepe Island is an island formed by the cones of twin volcanoes: active Concepción and dormant Maderas.
Their slopes are crisscrossed with trails, offering hikers excellent summit views of the lake and the Pacific Ocean.
Ancient Petroglyphs and Statues
The island’s first known inhabitants were Nahuatl, arriving from what is now Mexico.
Petroglyphs and statues, some thought to date to 300 BC, are scatted around the island, with a higher concentration on the north side of Volcan Maderas.
What to do in Lake Cocibolca
Concepción rises in tropical dry forest, where sun-bleached trails wind among deciduous trees; higher on Maderas, humidity deepens, cloaking landscapes in dense, wet foliage. Along these paths, White-faced capuchins flit through the canopy and Mantled howler monkeys make their booming calls, making wildlife encounters part of every hike.
What is the Weather Like?
Lake Cocibolca basks in tropical calm, where daytime highs hover near 32 °C (90 °F) and evenings linger pleasantly around 23 °C (74 °F)—as seen in nearby Granada’s climate.
The dry season (December–April) brings steady sun and gentle breezes, ideal for lakeside strolls and island visits.
During the rainy months (May–November), afternoon showers are routine—gifting the surrounding landscapes rich verdure and reflective skies, but best seasoned with readiness for sudden rain and lift in humidity.
Getting There
Isla de Ometepe is most easily reached via the southern shore town of Rivas, located approximately 45 south of Granada.
Ferries in the neighboring town of San Jorge cross to the port of Moyogalpa on Ometepe’s western shore.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Lake Cocibolca.
How to combine Lake Cocibolca
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
