Summit the Masaya Volcano

Masaya, Nicaragua, Nicaragua

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

3.6 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Brandon Eckroth

An international adventure with amazing scenery.

The most memorable adventure of this truly unforgettable trip to Nicaragua was the day we hiked the Masaya Volcano. By truck or car, you have to ascend the steep incline of the mountains to get to the entrance to Masaya Volcano National Park. It is possible to hike up, but the hike is long and steep (the height of the volcano is just over 2,000 feet).

All trails are guided. They vary in distance between 0.8 and 3.6 miles, and tour prices range from C10 to C20 (córdoba is the currency; C20 works out to about $0.77) per person. The volcano erupts at least once a week, sending small boulders to scatter themselves among the valley below, so more often than not, smoke hangs in the air, creating a remarkable atmosphere. We began the ascent up a winding path through the rock fields that were a result of the constant eruptions.

The hike to the edge of the crater takes about an hour. At the crater's edge, the smell of sulfur is potent, and dense smoke rose can be seen rising from the vibrant orange lava. Be sure to take some time exploring the edge; the views are particularly spectacular at sunset. This is most definitely a sight to see if you are ever in Nicaragua.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Hiking
Scenic

Summit the Masaya Volcano Reviews

As Brandon said and his pictures show you can get right up to the rim of Masaya. If you're lucky the wind will blow through and give you a decent view of the crater. I would like to add a little stronger warning to the smell than given though. Basically, the sulfur is so strong be ready to feel like someone farted in your mouth for the rest of your day. It's pretty brutal, so if you're really sensitive I'd make it a quick stay.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Relax at Laguna de Apoyo

Surf Chicken Bowels and Launch Ramps in Miramar

Swim at Oyo de Agua

Hike to San Ramon Waterfall on Ometepe Island

Hike up Volcan Telica