Ometepe, with its twin volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua, is a must visit spot if you are in Nicaragua. Getting to Ometepe Island can feel a bit confusing but don't worry explorer, its not as bad as it seems, in fact, its reasonably simple. The key is, get to Rivas!
Coming from the North of Managua (Leon) you will need to switch bus in Managua before heading further south to Granada or Rivas. The great thing about Nicaragua is the road network is pretty simple. Switch in Managua to get to the northern areas, switch in Rivas to get to the southern areas.
Nicaragua Backpacker's Blueprint Map
Step 1: Getting to Ometepe Island by Chicken Bus
The first step in getting to Ometepe is reaching Rivas, the jumping-off point for the island. And the best way to get to Rivas? Take a chicken bus or a shuttle if you are feeling flush.
Depending on where you're coming from:
From Leon: Switch in Managua
From Granada: Look for a chicken bus heading south to Rivas.
From Managua: Direct buses to Rivas leave regularly from the main terminal.
From San Juan del Sur: Hop on one of the frequent buses heading toward Rivas. (I will put the leaving point on the map below)
Chicken buses are an experience all on their own; packed with locals, travellers, and the occasional vendor selling fresh fruit or snacks. It's an affordable and fun way to immerse yourself in Nicaraguan culture while making your way toward Ometepe.
Pro Tip: Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings, especially during crowded rides, and carry small bills for the fare. Keep your important items in your small bag and put it on your lap in the bus (you will likely be insanely hot but its better than your laptop bouncing up and down on the roof).
Step 2: Arriving in Rivas and Heading to the Ferry Terminal
Once you arrive in Rivas, your next stop is the San Jorge Ferry Terminal, the gateway for ferries and lanchas to Ometepe. The terminal is located just outside the city, about a 10-minute ride by taxi or mototaxi. You can walk it but it is further than it looks on the map! Keep your whits about you here as it can be a pickpocket hot spot. You will need all of the usual tactics (zips locked together, phone on a strap).
The taxi's are located just outside the bus terminal, however there is also a shuttle that runs backwards and forwards. From Rivas to San Jorge, get your bus driver to point it out for you as you jump off your chicken bus.
Top Tip for the way back - When you come back to the mainland from Ometepe as you pass through the San Jorge main gate, WALK PAST EVERYONE, you will be jumped on by taxi drivers trying to get your custom but if you walk up the road around 50 meters, there will be the shuttle bus to Rivas which will get you there for super cheap.
At the ferry terminal, you’ll need to buy your ticket for the crossing. Options include:
The Ferry to Ometepe: A larger, more stable vessel perfect for those prone to seasickness.
Lanchas: Smaller boats offering a more rugged (but exciting) ride across the lake.
The ticket prices are affordable, usually under $5 USD, and you can purchase them at the terminal. Be sure to check the ferry schedules, as departure times can vary slightly. The journey across Lake Nicaragua takes about an hour, during which you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Ometepe’s towering volcanoes emerging on the horizon.
Step 3: Crossing Lake Nicaragua to Ometepe
The ferry ride to Ometepe is an experience you won’t want to miss. As you glide across the lake, take in the dramatic scenery: the towering cones of Concepción and Maderas volcanoes, the sparkling water, and the occasional flock of birds overhead.
For those looking for an even more adventurous option, the smaller lanchas offer a thrilling ride, though they can be a bit bumpier on windy days. Whichever you choose, the crossing is the perfect prelude to your Ometepe adventure.
Step 4: Getting Around Ometepe – Rent a Scooter!
You will arrive into Moyogalpa where the adventure really begins. The best way to explore the island? Scooter/ bike/quad rentals! While public buses and taxis are available, renting your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore Ometepe at your own pace. I circumnavigate both volcanoes on the island which made me feel like I was really getting off the usual backpacking spots. You can see more of this in the Nicaragua Backpacking Guide page.
Scooter/ bike rentals are easy to find in Moyogalpa, I used 'Dinarte's Motorcycle Rental'. They were super easy to deal with and a good price (around $10–15 per day). Once you are out of Moyogalpa the roads are easy to navigate but can be super varaible in condition. Take your time, were your helmet and if you are not confident on 2 wheels get 4 as you will see people with the 'Ometepe Kiss' from where they have fallen off, this is not fun for anyone.
Most rental shops require a valid driver’s license and a deposit or passport.
With a scooter or bike or quad, you’ll have access to all of Ometepe’s highlights, including:
Ojo de Agua: A natural spring perfect for a refreshing dip.
Charco Verde Nature Reserve: A serene spot for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Volcano Trails: Conquer either Concepción or Maderas for epic views.
Don’t forget to carry cash, as ATMs are scarce on Ometepe.
Is it Worth the Journey
Ometepe is an unusual experience. Imagine a large boat, say a cruise liner sank. The ship has a few thousand passengers and all of them made it to the island. No one went to find them but guess what, they have actually done pretty well! There is a doctor, a small shop, local builders, people farming. Add in a big slice of spirituality; think moon parties, yoga and meditation with a healthy alcohol fuelled night scene and welcome to Ometepe.
I loved my time here ... the only exception being when one morning a spider scorpion decided to say hello to me in the shower, leaving me bursting out the door like a cartoon character. Ometepe is yet another unique experience that Nicaragua seems to dish out. Totally different to Leon, Granada, Popoyo and San Juan Del Sur. Perhaps this is why Nicaragua is such a fun country to backpack!
Until the next one, cheers explorer, have a chocolate smoothy for me 😉
If you have been to Ometepe island, drop a picture of your chocolate smoothy below and let us know how you found this unique place👇 If you can add in the latest updates below that would be even better.
For the Intelligent explorer
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