Sharks and Volcanoes

From Granada, we made the short drive to the shores of the vast Lake Nicaragua for our ferry to Ometepe. Ometepe is an island on the lake that is essentially two adjoining volcanoes, Concepcion and Maderas. Interesting tidbit, Lake Nicaragua is the only known place where freshwater sharks can be found.

Our journey and arrival on Ometepe was uneventful although the ferry dock only met the base requirements for such a thing. Our accommodation on the other hand, was far more substantial, with cosy villas by the shore of the lake. Tranquil and removed, it was ideal for sitting in a hammock and enjoying the natural world. From outside the reception, you had fantastic views of Concepcion Volcano which was simply breathtaking.

A sunset over Lake Nicaragua, from our accommodation

Having been told that there was a nature reserve down the beach, a couple of us wandered in its general direction, eventually discovering it after traipsing through another resort. The reserve featured gardens and a walking trail through some beautiful forest. There was even a lake within the island (...within a lake). It was quite surprising the number of howler monkeys we came across on the walk. Although they were in fact dead quiet, unlike all the other howler monkeys I had come across throughout Central America. Eventually, we made it to the secluded beach Playa Bancon. This empty black sand beach had pleasantly warm water washing up on it and views of Maderas Volcano. Utterly serene experience.

Playa Bancon with Maderas Volcano in the distance

Sadly, for our second day I was unwell so missed out on further exploring the island. Aside from the obvious volcano related activities, there were hot springs, coffee farms, archaeological sites and more to see. I really hope to return one day and see everything that I missed.