Description
Accessed by a short boat ride from the colonial town of Granada, this environmentally sensitive, small boutique lodge is a rare gem that offers understated comfort, natural charm, warm service and wonderful food.
Nine spacious two-storey casitas peep out from the jungle, each constructed from hardwood and elegantly finished with an outside deck that invites tranquil contemplation of the lake. An organic ethos pervades the resort, from delicious and healthy local fish, fruits and vegetables to the use of biodegradable detergents and solar water heating.
Fill your days here exploring the local archipelago in a kayak, relaxing in the wellness centre or by the pool, taking part in a yoga class, heading into beautiful Granada to experience the colourful markets and colonial architecture, wandering through the forest filled with chattering birds and monkeys, fishing with the native islanders, soaking in volcanic hot springs or, if you are feeling adventurous, a summit attempt on Mombacho, before returning for a well-deserved cocktail as the sun goes down.
Accommodation
Jicaro Island Ecolodge has 9 two-storey private casitas, all with lake views. Each casita has a bedroom with king size bed on the upper level and spacious sitting area and bathroom on the lower level, leading out onto a private deck with hammock and seating. All the casitas and furniture were built locally with wood that has been certified by the Rainforest Alliance.
Childcare
Children aged 12 and above are welcome at Jicaro Island Ecolodge although there are no formal children's activities or facilities. Although the lodge is great for relaxing older children will probably love the adventurous activities on offer.
Facilities
Jicaro Island Ecolodge has an outdoor swimming pool, bar, wellness centre and restaurant. The restaurant uses as much local produce as possible including fresh fish from the lake and nearby ocean, locally farmed chicken and beef and local fruit and vegetables.
Activities
Guests at Jicaro Island Ecolodge may wish to simply relax with a book by the lake, indulge in a massage or join in a yoga class. Or for something more active there is the chance to go kayaking round the Granada Isletas, hike in the rainforest or take a boat ride to the hot springs at the base of Mombacho volcano. There is a resident nature guide who is available to lead excursions into the surrounding area.
Services
No air-conditioning but there are fans and an effective cross-ventilation system in place
When to travel
The tourist season runs from December to April. Nicaragua has a topical climate with two seasons, the dry season (December-April) and rainy (May-November). Though the temperature is fairly consistent throughout the year, the rainy season can see torrential downpours.
In nearly all Nicaragua, April and May are the hottest, driest months. December and January are the coolest months and easily comprise the most refreshing and greenest time to visit Nicaragua. September and October are Hurricane Season in the Caribbean and the rainiest months in Nicaragua.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Central Pacific Region, Nicaragua
Jicaro Island Ecolodge is 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.
How to get there
14-hour flight to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, Managua followed by an hour by road and 30 minute boat ride.
