Jicaro Island Ecolodge is Nicaragua´s most upscale nature resort located on a private island in Lake Nicaragua. The lodge is located just a short boat ride from the colonial town of Granada with spectacular views of the Mombacho Volcano across the lake. Nine private casitas serve as the perfect setting for romantic escapes, activities and active exploration and wellness retreats. Immerse yourself in a magical island experience filled with peace, tranquility and access to a wide variety of tours and activities.

At Jicaro you stay in your own little house, a “casita”. The nine casitas on the island all have lake views and are within a short walk from the pool, restaurant, and wellness center. The casitas are two stories, with a private bedroom and a king size bed on the second floor; and on the first floor, a spacious living area that connects to an outside deck overlooking the lake. The casitas and the furniture are made locally from Rainforest Alliance certified wood. Each casita is equipped with mosquito netting and ceiling fans, and the large doors and windows can all be opened for cross ventilation. Most notably, the oversized hammock and comfy furniture of the deck will invite you to relax and feel the peace of this magical lake.

Tour and Activities available

Granada City Tour - Established in 1524 this city offers a great culture and historic tour where you will visit Forts and local markets.

Plantations, Tropical Forest & Hot Springs - Explore Cacoa, Coffee and Citrus Fruit plantations as you hike up the Mombacho volcano and enjoy panoramic breath taking views.  Finish the tour with a relaxing dip in the thermally heated hotsprings.

Sunrise or Sunset Kayaking - Kayak on lake Nicaragua and explore the many islands as well as see a vast array of wildlife.

Full Moon/Night Kayaking - If you are lucky enough to visit during a full moon, strap a flashlight to you head and expect to see some of the fabulous nocturnal wildlife of lake Nicaragua.

Bird Watching Tour - You might find interesting birds like Montezuma’s Oropendula, Ringed kingfisher, purple gallinule, Northern jacana amongst others.

Peninsula Nature Hike - To the north of Jicaro Island, there is the Asese Peninsula that stretches from the foot of the Mombacho volcano right to the mainland in front of the island. This is an important corridor for animals travelling from the higher altitude forests of Mombacho to the lower parts of the mainland.

Mombacho Tour - Spend the day in Mombacho natural reserve and take a four-hour hike up and down hill. Climb to “La Roca” Lookout to appreciate one of the most beautiful views of Granada’s Islands, Zapatera and the volcanoes in lake Nicaragua.

Full Day Zapatera Tour - This is a day where amidst tranquil relaxation Nicaraguan history comes to life. Spend the day at the Santa Maria Hotel & Hacienda, built over 100 years ago and located on Zapatera Island, one of the larger islands 30km south of our lodge. Enjoy a beautiful half hour boat ride and discover this historical site for yourself. Zapatera is now a national park and is perhaps best known for its archaeological significance, since during pre-Columbian times this island was an important ceremonial area for the Chorotega tribes. Many of the archaeological artifacts that were found on Zapatera are now in the Cultural Center Convento de San Francisco in Granada and also the Smithsonian. Once in Zapatera, relax and enjoy the warm water of this beautiful beach, and also visit the little fishing village, and the school supported by the owners of Hacienda. If you feel adventurous join us on a one hour walk through the tropical dry forest to a lagoon that over one thousand years ago was a volcano mount. Here, if you approach quietly you may be able to see turtles as well as the abundant bird life. After lunch, we will jump on the boat and head to “Isla de la Muerta” (the Island of Death). Here you will learn some Chorotega history and its relation to this island; one of much importance because it was used as a vast burial ground and sacrifice spot. We’ll explore the island and get a chance to see various petroglyphs that were carved on bedrock likely over 1000 years ago.