Lake Nicaragua
Affectionately referred to as Cocibolca (‘sweet sea’) by local indigenous communities, Lake Nicaragua is one of the largest freshwater reserves in Latin America. This vast expanse of water is just over 10 miles (16 kilometres) from the Pacific Ocean on its south-western shores, yet beneath its surface lurks prehistoric gaspar fish and even sharks!
Out of the lake emerge the lofty cones of Volcán Conception and Volcán Maderas, connected by a narrow isthmus atop the magnificent Isla de Ometepe. This enchanting island is thought to be more than 12,000 years old and is referred to as Oasis de Paz (Oasis of Peace) by Ometepinos for being devoid of any conflict for centuries. A trek to the summit of Volcán Maderas, swathed in dense cloud forest, uncovers the misty crater of Laguna de Maderas, a delightful scene livened by the animated calls of howler monkeys and the colourful profusion of exotic birds.
Archipiélago Las Isletas lies just beyond the colonial city of Granada on the north western tip of Lake Nicaragua. The archipelago comprises of 354 islands; home to Nicaragua’s super-wealthy and more humble islanders. Cruise the maze of waterways to observe egrets, kingfishers and ospreys that frolic in the channels.