A 2-Days Hike to Volcan El Hoyo
Volcán El Hoyo is probably one of the five most famous volcanoes in Nicaragua. Several trails lead to the summit of El Hoyo, including one that begins at Volcán Cerro Negro. This 6-kilometers trail takes about 2.5 hours to reach the camping area at the base of Volcán El Hoyo. For a more challenging experience, there is a longer trail starting at the Momotombo Community. This 10-kilometers trail takes approximately 4 hours to reach the camping area at the base of Volcán El Hoyo. Both trails offer breathtaking views of Los Maribios volcanic range.
Entrance Fee - 6-Kilometers trail
There are several tour agencies in León that offer hiking packages for camping at El Hoyo for more than $60 dollars per tourist. However, if you choose to go on your own, you need to pay the entrance fee to Cerro Negro National Park, which is $5.00 for locals and $10.00 for foreigners, plus a $5.00 camping fee at Volcán El Hoyo.
How to get there by public transportation?
The road from León Downtown to Cerro Negro National Park is about 21 kilometers, and you don’t need a 4x4 vehicle. There is even a chicken bus from the main bus station in León Downtown that will take you to a community near Cerro Negro.
Does a certified volcano guide is required for this hike?
In addition to the entrance and camping fees, you will need to hire a certified volcano guide at the entrance of Cerro Negro National Park for your hike to Volcán El Hoyo. The guide typically charges between $5.00 and $10.00 per person, depending on the size of the group. On your way to Volcán El Hoyo, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Los Maribios volcanic range, including iconic volcanoes like Cerro Negro, Rota, Telica, San Cristóbal, and more. Along the way, you can also make a brief stop at the crater of Cerro Ojo de Agua before continuing to the camping area at Volcán El Hoyo.
Los Maribios Viewpoint
Los Maribios Volcanic Range
Once you reach the camping area, you'll be amazed by the stunning feature of this volcano—its unique crater located on one of its slopes.
El Hoyo - The main attraction of this volcano
This volcano not only features this crater but also has two more craters at its summit. Be sure to take your time exploring and make the most of your stay while camping in this incredible spot.
The multiple craters from Volcan El Hoyo
Sunrise Viewpoint at El Hoyo
Sunrise at the camping area of Volcán El Hoyo is likely one of the best places to witness a sunrise in Nicaragua. You will enjoy a stunning view of Volcán Momotombo, Volcán Momotombito, Volcán Ajusco, Volcán Los Tacanites, and Lake Managua as the sun rises.
Sunrise at the Camping Area
Entrance Fee - 10-Kilometers trail
If you choose to take the longer trail for a more challenging hike, you are NO required to pay an entrance fee, applicable to both locals and foreigners.
How to get there by public transportation?
You can take a bus from either León City or Managua to La Paz Centro. At the entrance of La Paz Centro, you will find many caponeras (also known as moto-taxis) that can take you to Empalme Momotombo, where your hike awaits.
Caponeras typically charge C$100 córdobas for a single rider, but if you are with another person, the fare is C$80 córdobas per person.
Once you arrive at Empalme Momotombo, you can begin your hike. You can choose to either take the trail to Laguna del Tigre or the trail that borders Volcán Ajusco to make your way to Volcan El Hoyo
Laguna del Tigre
