Trekking and hiking in Nicaragua

Formed by two volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe is one of the best places in the country to combine trekking with a bit of downtime. As well as lake-side beaches and clear waters, the island is home to some beautiful waterfalls and trails through dry tropical forest. Take a hike to the San Ramon Waterfall, keeping an eye out for howler monkeys along the way, or tackle the tougher trek up Volcán Concepción or Volcán Maderas for scenic views back across the lake. Trails range from a gentle few hours to a full-day climb, so there's something to suit most fitness levels.

Search for birds of paradise with a hike through Nicaragua's wild north. El Diablo Nature Reserve, near Cerro Datanlí, has it all: cloud forests, mountain ridges and deep gorges, all criss-crossed by walking trails. It's one of the best reserves in the country for spotting the iconic quetzal bird, though its jewel-green plumage means you'll still need to keep your eyes peeled. You'll be accompanied by a local guide who knows the trails well, making this a great choice if you want your trekking paired with genuine wildlife spotting rather than just the views.

León may be best known for its culture and edgy art scene, all cobbled streets, colourful facades and the largest cathedral in Latin America, but it's also the jumping off point to Cerro Negro volcano. Nicaragua's youngest volcano is a stark, black cone of volcanic ash, and the hike up is short but steep. Once at the top, most people trade their walking boots for a board and volcano board back down the slope. Stay an extra night in León and take our optional excursion to visit Cerro Negro.

For something a little different to a summit trek, head to the rim of Masaya Volcano. A short walk brings you to the crater's edge, where you can peer down and, with a bit of luck, spot the glow of molten lava below. It's one of the most accessible volcano experiences in Nicaragua, and best done as the sun sets.

Swap volcanoes for mountains in Matagalpa, a region built for adventure travellers. Trails here wind through cloud forest and past coffee plantations, with the chance to visit indigenous villages along the way. It's a cooler, greener side of Nicaragua, and a great add-on if you fancy pairing your hiking with a coffee tour.