Island of Ometepe
For lots of info on what Ometepe offers, maps and the ferry schedule go to:
http://www.ometepenicaragua.com
Ometepe Island is one of the largest freshwater islands in the world. Though few remain, freshwater sharks are in the surrounding Lake Nicaragua. When the Spanish discovered the lake in 1523, due to its immensity of approximately 8,264 km2, constant waves, and beautiful beaches, they thought it was a sea. The indigenous ancestors named the islands "Ometepe" meaning in Náhuatl language "two hills". It has museums and a rich history of petroglyphs, ceramic and statuary.
They are actually two islands connected by an isthmus. The total area is 276 square kilometers (107 sq mi) with a length of 31 Km (19 mi) and a width of 10 Km (6.2 mi). The highest point is 1,610 meters (5,300 ft) and the largest town (Altagracia) has a population of 4,081 while the total population is 29,684 (2005).
Ometepe was formed by two volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua. The two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas, are joined by a low isthmus to form an island in the shape of an hourglass. Ometepe has an economy based on livestock, agriculture, and tourism while plantains are the major crop. The Concepción volcano is active while the Maderas is extinct and has a lagoon on its crater. Both can be climbed to the summit offering a spectacular view of the island.
To reach the island, you must take a ferry or a boat from the port of San Jorge in Rivas with a duration of 1 hour and a half. There are two ferries, one that arrives in the port of Moyogalpa and another in the port of San José. There is also a ferry from Granada. There are no ATMs on the island yet, so be sure to bring enough cash.
Inhabitants
It is believed that the island first became inhabited 2000-500 BC, although evidence is sketchy. The first known inhabitants were Nahua Indians from Mexico. Later came the Niquirano Indians, who established an important settlement on the island leaving behind wonderful ceramics and monuments. Traces of their past can still be found in petroglyphs and stone idols on the northern slopes of the Maderas volcano. The oldest date from 300 BC.
After the Spaniards had conquered the Central American region in the 16th century, pirates began prowling Lake Nicaragua and the inhabitants of Ometepe were hard hit. The pirates robbed them of their women, animals, possessions and harvest. They also erected settlements on the shore, making it their refuge. This made the local population move to higher grounds on the volcanoes.
Ometepe was finally annexed, through settlement, by the Spanish conquistadors at the end of the 16th century. But French, English (such as Francis Drake) and Dutch pirates still endangered the island until the late 17th century.
The most important villages on the island are Altagracia, on the eastern side, and Moyogalpa, with its harbor on the northwestern side of the island. They celebrate more religious and folk festivals than anywhere in Nicaragua.
In 2005, an earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale occurred as a result of increasing pressure within the active Concepción volcano. Cracks appeared in the roads on Ometepe but this was the first minor eruption since 1999.
Volcanoes
Volcán Concepción (once named Ometepe volcano) is the northwest half of the island. Concepción is a symmetrical cone, and is still considered an active volcano (Baker, 2006). Concepción volcano now reaches an altitude of 1,610 m and is the world's highest lake island. The volcano went through a long quiet period, but on 8 December 1880 Concepción came back to life. This eruption was extensive, and the volcano remained active for a year. More eruptions followed in 1883, 1889, 1902, 1907, and 1924. The most recent eruption was in 1957. This eruption was extremely violent; however few of the island's inhabitants heeded the order from the government in Managua to evacuate the island.
The southeast half of the island consists of Volcán Madera, which has a crater lake and supports a diverse rainforest environment. This volcano rises 1,394 m above sea level and the last eruption occurred in the 13th century. A large lagoon formed in its crater, and was discovered on 15 April 1930 by the farmer Casimiro Murillo. It is covered with coffee and tobacco plantations and the remaining rain forest. This volcano is a perfect destination for the ecotourist since much of this part of the island is now a nature reserve.
The volcanic ash has made the soil of this island extremely fertile, allowing continuous planting without fallowing. The volcanoes are visible from everywhere on the island, and life on Ometepe revolves closely around them. They also play an important part in the myths and legends of the island, which once served as an Indian burial ground.
Petroglyphs
The Ometepe Petroglyph Project was a volunteer field survey of the Maderas half of Ometepe from 1995 – 1999. This project intensively surveyed 15 km of the Maderas half of the island over five field seasons. The project mapped 73 archaeological sites within this 15 km area, including almost 1700 petroglyph panels on 1400 boulders. Of the 73 sites surveyed by the Ometepe Petroglyph Project, petroglyphs were recorded at all but one. Many of the petroglyphs on Ometepe contain spirals, and “meander” across the rock face. Stylized turtles are a common motif for the area.
The petroglyphs of Ometepe include some forms which are less common. Figures in many of the depictions are described as having “bowling ball faces” on human figures. As noted above, spirals are common and are apparently used in several ways. Two attached spirals appear to represent the island, with its two volcanoes. Spirals also are used to depict the head of anthromorphic figures. Some of the unusual formations seen within the petroglyphs on Ometepe include seats or steps carved into boulders, ovals, and big grooves. The purpose behind these forms has not yet been explained.
The Ometepe Petroglyph project is an interesting example of modern technology assisting in the recording of archaeological sites. As the prehistoric art sites were being surveyed and recorded, pictures were and taken of each site in both black and white. A video was even made at one site. Photos were then uploaded into a computer, and the Photoshop program was then use to increase the contrast of the photos, increasing the visibility of the petroglyphs pictured. This allowed for a more accurate record of sites that by necessity were photographed in less than ideal conditions and lighting.
Wildlife
Ometepe harbors large populations of the White-faced Capuchin monkey and populations of the Mantled Howler monkey. Efforts are being made to study and protect these animals. The lake surrounding Ometepe harbors many species of aquatic animals, notably the Nicaragua shark, which until recently was thought to be a unique species of freshwater shark but has since been shown to be continuous with ocean populations. Small populations of spider monkeys inhabit very small islands within Lake Nicaragua. These populations exist solely due to humans and many of the local fishermen routinely stop by and feed them.
Places to See, Go
Don’t come to Ometepe for the nightclub scene. It’s all about laying back and enjoying the tranquil life. The energetic types will enjoy the hiking and biking.
Altagracia
Altagracia is the second largest city on the island of Ometepe. Its original name was Astagalpa, meaning ‘house of the herons’ in Náhuatl. Altagracia is home to a Cathedral which was built in 1924. The city has recently installed a sculpture park next to the cathedral that contains important pre-Columbian art made from basalt rock. The figures are of great size, and represent human figures and their alter egos, mainly the eagle and jaguar. The pre-Columbian basalt rock figures are estimated to be from the nineteenth century. Also present in Altagracia is the Museum of Ometepe (Museo de Ometepe) with a large archaeological and ethnographic collection.
The city patron is San Diego de Alcalá and his festival, Fiesta de San Diego, is celebrated from November 12-18. The traditional dance called baile del Zompopo is performed on the 17th of November. This tradition is mixed with the celebration of Xolotl, who inhabited Nicaragua in pre-Columbian times before the Spaniards arrived. When the Franciscans arrived in Ometepe in 1613, this tradition was already existent, although they brought with themselves an image of San Diego de Alcalá and eventually Alcalá replaced Xolotl.
With more natural protection from Concepción's occasional lava flow than Moyogalpa, this is the original indigenous capital of Ometepe and still the island's most important town. Its parque central is much more central, and comes alive in the cool of the evening with barbecue grills, young lovers and sometimes even live music.
Moyogalpa
Not a lot of excitement here but it is the ferry terminal for hourly boats from the mainland, Moyogalpa is the nerve center for Ometepe's small tourist industry, with several hotels and restaurants, and the fastest Internet on the island. From here you can make the plans for visiting the rest of the island. Worried about making connections? As soon as you leave the ferry you will be approached by many tour operators and other entrepreneurs. You were probably already approached by people at San Jorge and they have called ahead to their family or associates.
Cascada San Ramón
If you are a hiker then you will want to see the San Ramón waterfall. Assume a four-hour trek on a steep, clearly marked trail to the 40m (131ft) waterfall that you see on all the postcards. Well worth the time and effort.
Hiking Maderas Volcano
Another hiking experience is the cloud forest covered Volcan Maderas. A local guide is recommended to help you get to the top of Maderas then down inside to view the crater lake. This lake was not discovered until the 1930s.
Maderas is 1394 meters tall and has a diverse rainforest environment. It is a long hike but you will see howler monkeys, spider monkeys and many different species of insects and birds. If you are lucky enough to get a clear day, the views from the top of Madera are spectacular.
Hiking Concepcion Volcano
Concepcion is 1610 meters in altitude making it the world’s highest point on any fresh water lake island. It is possible to hike to the top of the symmetrical cone during most months of the year except the early part due to the winds. The views from the top stretch all the way across the lake to the Pacific coast of Nicaragua.
Petroglyphs
Thousands of petroglyphs are strewn all over the island of Ometepe. Spirals, humans and local animals are common themes found on the petroglyphs. There are many tour companies which will point you in the right direction to find the petroglyphs.
Charco Verde
On the way to Altagracia you will pass by Charco Verde located at kilometer 11. The reserve has a lagoon separated from the lake by only a narrow strip of land and has wonderful flora and fauna. This area is famous throughout whole Ometepe for its fascinating myths. Lodging is offered by three places located within the reserve of Charco Verde. They vary in price and comfort but each one of them is interesting for its location.
Part of the calm lagoon is covered in mangrove forest where the trees with submerged tree trunks throw a shadow on the water and create a mystical atmosphere. The rest of the lagoon’s shore is covered by rich vegetation and large fruit trees. During the rainy season, the lake’s water level increases and water from Lake Nicaragua invades the lagoon.
At the eastern part of Charco Verde there is a hill that carries the same name of the reserve, with a viewpoint located at the top, called Mirador del Diable (Devil’s View). The views are great. At the reserve you can explore the lagoon from a kayak, you can walk around or horseback ride within the reserve or towards neighboring communities. Furthermore, Charco Verde is a great place to swim or sunbathe and enjoy the beach.
At Charco Verde as well as at any other place on Ometepe you can ask the people about the myth of Chico Largo. This was supposedly a very big guy who owned Charco Verde and who turned into this possessed character after making a treaty with the devil. Or you can learn more about Mama Bucha, who is the mother of Chico Largo. Mama Bucha comes backs from death during the Holy Week (Easter) and strolls looking for pumpkins to carry water, impregnating the surroundings with the smell of cigar.
Museo Ometepe
A small, three-room museum housing a collection of petroglyphs and ancient ceramic pots found on Ometepe.
Museo Numismatico (El Ceibo)
The Museo Numismatico traces the history and evolution of money in Nicaragua.
Horseback Riding
Ometepe is the perfect place for horseback riding. You can rent horses for between $5 and $7 an hour.
Biking
Don’t like riding animals then renting or bringing your bike may be the thing.
http://www.ometepenicaragua.com
Ometepe Island is one of the largest freshwater islands in the world. Though few remain, freshwater sharks are in the surrounding Lake Nicaragua. When the Spanish discovered the lake in 1523, due to its immensity of approximately 8,264 km2, constant waves, and beautiful beaches, they thought it was a sea. The indigenous ancestors named the islands "Ometepe" meaning in Náhuatl language "two hills". It has museums and a rich history of petroglyphs, ceramic and statuary.
They are actually two islands connected by an isthmus. The total area is 276 square kilometers (107 sq mi) with a length of 31 Km (19 mi) and a width of 10 Km (6.2 mi). The highest point is 1,610 meters (5,300 ft) and the largest town (Altagracia) has a population of 4,081 while the total population is 29,684 (2005).
Ometepe was formed by two volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua. The two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas, are joined by a low isthmus to form an island in the shape of an hourglass. Ometepe has an economy based on livestock, agriculture, and tourism while plantains are the major crop. The Concepción volcano is active while the Maderas is extinct and has a lagoon on its crater. Both can be climbed to the summit offering a spectacular view of the island.
To reach the island, you must take a ferry or a boat from the port of San Jorge in Rivas with a duration of 1 hour and a half. There are two ferries, one that arrives in the port of Moyogalpa and another in the port of San José. There is also a ferry from Granada. There are no ATMs on the island yet, so be sure to bring enough cash.
Inhabitants
It is believed that the island first became inhabited 2000-500 BC, although evidence is sketchy. The first known inhabitants were Nahua Indians from Mexico. Later came the Niquirano Indians, who established an important settlement on the island leaving behind wonderful ceramics and monuments. Traces of their past can still be found in petroglyphs and stone idols on the northern slopes of the Maderas volcano. The oldest date from 300 BC.
After the Spaniards had conquered the Central American region in the 16th century, pirates began prowling Lake Nicaragua and the inhabitants of Ometepe were hard hit. The pirates robbed them of their women, animals, possessions and harvest. They also erected settlements on the shore, making it their refuge. This made the local population move to higher grounds on the volcanoes.
Ometepe was finally annexed, through settlement, by the Spanish conquistadors at the end of the 16th century. But French, English (such as Francis Drake) and Dutch pirates still endangered the island until the late 17th century.
The most important villages on the island are Altagracia, on the eastern side, and Moyogalpa, with its harbor on the northwestern side of the island. They celebrate more religious and folk festivals than anywhere in Nicaragua.
In 2005, an earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale occurred as a result of increasing pressure within the active Concepción volcano. Cracks appeared in the roads on Ometepe but this was the first minor eruption since 1999.
Volcanoes
Volcán Concepción (once named Ometepe volcano) is the northwest half of the island. Concepción is a symmetrical cone, and is still considered an active volcano (Baker, 2006). Concepción volcano now reaches an altitude of 1,610 m and is the world's highest lake island. The volcano went through a long quiet period, but on 8 December 1880 Concepción came back to life. This eruption was extensive, and the volcano remained active for a year. More eruptions followed in 1883, 1889, 1902, 1907, and 1924. The most recent eruption was in 1957. This eruption was extremely violent; however few of the island's inhabitants heeded the order from the government in Managua to evacuate the island.
The southeast half of the island consists of Volcán Madera, which has a crater lake and supports a diverse rainforest environment. This volcano rises 1,394 m above sea level and the last eruption occurred in the 13th century. A large lagoon formed in its crater, and was discovered on 15 April 1930 by the farmer Casimiro Murillo. It is covered with coffee and tobacco plantations and the remaining rain forest. This volcano is a perfect destination for the ecotourist since much of this part of the island is now a nature reserve.
The volcanic ash has made the soil of this island extremely fertile, allowing continuous planting without fallowing. The volcanoes are visible from everywhere on the island, and life on Ometepe revolves closely around them. They also play an important part in the myths and legends of the island, which once served as an Indian burial ground.
Petroglyphs
The Ometepe Petroglyph Project was a volunteer field survey of the Maderas half of Ometepe from 1995 – 1999. This project intensively surveyed 15 km of the Maderas half of the island over five field seasons. The project mapped 73 archaeological sites within this 15 km area, including almost 1700 petroglyph panels on 1400 boulders. Of the 73 sites surveyed by the Ometepe Petroglyph Project, petroglyphs were recorded at all but one. Many of the petroglyphs on Ometepe contain spirals, and “meander” across the rock face. Stylized turtles are a common motif for the area.
The petroglyphs of Ometepe include some forms which are less common. Figures in many of the depictions are described as having “bowling ball faces” on human figures. As noted above, spirals are common and are apparently used in several ways. Two attached spirals appear to represent the island, with its two volcanoes. Spirals also are used to depict the head of anthromorphic figures. Some of the unusual formations seen within the petroglyphs on Ometepe include seats or steps carved into boulders, ovals, and big grooves. The purpose behind these forms has not yet been explained.
The Ometepe Petroglyph project is an interesting example of modern technology assisting in the recording of archaeological sites. As the prehistoric art sites were being surveyed and recorded, pictures were and taken of each site in both black and white. A video was even made at one site. Photos were then uploaded into a computer, and the Photoshop program was then use to increase the contrast of the photos, increasing the visibility of the petroglyphs pictured. This allowed for a more accurate record of sites that by necessity were photographed in less than ideal conditions and lighting.
Wildlife
Ometepe harbors large populations of the White-faced Capuchin monkey and populations of the Mantled Howler monkey. Efforts are being made to study and protect these animals. The lake surrounding Ometepe harbors many species of aquatic animals, notably the Nicaragua shark, which until recently was thought to be a unique species of freshwater shark but has since been shown to be continuous with ocean populations. Small populations of spider monkeys inhabit very small islands within Lake Nicaragua. These populations exist solely due to humans and many of the local fishermen routinely stop by and feed them.
Places to See, Go
Don’t come to Ometepe for the nightclub scene. It’s all about laying back and enjoying the tranquil life. The energetic types will enjoy the hiking and biking.
Altagracia
Altagracia is the second largest city on the island of Ometepe. Its original name was Astagalpa, meaning ‘house of the herons’ in Náhuatl. Altagracia is home to a Cathedral which was built in 1924. The city has recently installed a sculpture park next to the cathedral that contains important pre-Columbian art made from basalt rock. The figures are of great size, and represent human figures and their alter egos, mainly the eagle and jaguar. The pre-Columbian basalt rock figures are estimated to be from the nineteenth century. Also present in Altagracia is the Museum of Ometepe (Museo de Ometepe) with a large archaeological and ethnographic collection.
The city patron is San Diego de Alcalá and his festival, Fiesta de San Diego, is celebrated from November 12-18. The traditional dance called baile del Zompopo is performed on the 17th of November. This tradition is mixed with the celebration of Xolotl, who inhabited Nicaragua in pre-Columbian times before the Spaniards arrived. When the Franciscans arrived in Ometepe in 1613, this tradition was already existent, although they brought with themselves an image of San Diego de Alcalá and eventually Alcalá replaced Xolotl.
With more natural protection from Concepción's occasional lava flow than Moyogalpa, this is the original indigenous capital of Ometepe and still the island's most important town. Its parque central is much more central, and comes alive in the cool of the evening with barbecue grills, young lovers and sometimes even live music.
Moyogalpa
Not a lot of excitement here but it is the ferry terminal for hourly boats from the mainland, Moyogalpa is the nerve center for Ometepe's small tourist industry, with several hotels and restaurants, and the fastest Internet on the island. From here you can make the plans for visiting the rest of the island. Worried about making connections? As soon as you leave the ferry you will be approached by many tour operators and other entrepreneurs. You were probably already approached by people at San Jorge and they have called ahead to their family or associates.
Cascada San Ramón
If you are a hiker then you will want to see the San Ramón waterfall. Assume a four-hour trek on a steep, clearly marked trail to the 40m (131ft) waterfall that you see on all the postcards. Well worth the time and effort.
Hiking Maderas Volcano
Another hiking experience is the cloud forest covered Volcan Maderas. A local guide is recommended to help you get to the top of Maderas then down inside to view the crater lake. This lake was not discovered until the 1930s.
Maderas is 1394 meters tall and has a diverse rainforest environment. It is a long hike but you will see howler monkeys, spider monkeys and many different species of insects and birds. If you are lucky enough to get a clear day, the views from the top of Madera are spectacular.
Hiking Concepcion Volcano
Concepcion is 1610 meters in altitude making it the world’s highest point on any fresh water lake island. It is possible to hike to the top of the symmetrical cone during most months of the year except the early part due to the winds. The views from the top stretch all the way across the lake to the Pacific coast of Nicaragua.
Petroglyphs
Thousands of petroglyphs are strewn all over the island of Ometepe. Spirals, humans and local animals are common themes found on the petroglyphs. There are many tour companies which will point you in the right direction to find the petroglyphs.
Charco Verde
On the way to Altagracia you will pass by Charco Verde located at kilometer 11. The reserve has a lagoon separated from the lake by only a narrow strip of land and has wonderful flora and fauna. This area is famous throughout whole Ometepe for its fascinating myths. Lodging is offered by three places located within the reserve of Charco Verde. They vary in price and comfort but each one of them is interesting for its location.
Part of the calm lagoon is covered in mangrove forest where the trees with submerged tree trunks throw a shadow on the water and create a mystical atmosphere. The rest of the lagoon’s shore is covered by rich vegetation and large fruit trees. During the rainy season, the lake’s water level increases and water from Lake Nicaragua invades the lagoon.
At the eastern part of Charco Verde there is a hill that carries the same name of the reserve, with a viewpoint located at the top, called Mirador del Diable (Devil’s View). The views are great. At the reserve you can explore the lagoon from a kayak, you can walk around or horseback ride within the reserve or towards neighboring communities. Furthermore, Charco Verde is a great place to swim or sunbathe and enjoy the beach.
At Charco Verde as well as at any other place on Ometepe you can ask the people about the myth of Chico Largo. This was supposedly a very big guy who owned Charco Verde and who turned into this possessed character after making a treaty with the devil. Or you can learn more about Mama Bucha, who is the mother of Chico Largo. Mama Bucha comes backs from death during the Holy Week (Easter) and strolls looking for pumpkins to carry water, impregnating the surroundings with the smell of cigar.
Museo Ometepe
A small, three-room museum housing a collection of petroglyphs and ancient ceramic pots found on Ometepe.
Museo Numismatico (El Ceibo)
The Museo Numismatico traces the history and evolution of money in Nicaragua.
Horseback Riding
Ometepe is the perfect place for horseback riding. You can rent horses for between $5 and $7 an hour.
Biking
Don’t like riding animals then renting or bringing your bike may be the thing.
