El Hoyo Volcano

El Hoyo takes its name, the hole, from a collapse pit gouged into its upper flank, a near-vertical shaft that vents steam and is visible from a long way off, giving the mountain a profile unlike its neighbours. At 1,088 metres it sits in the middle of the Maribios chain, and the standard trip is an overnight trek from León: hike in across old lava fields and scrub, camp on the ridge with the whole line of volcanoes visible, climb to the summit for sunrise, and descend past the Laguna El Tigre to finish. Views take in Momotombo, Telica, Cerro Negro and the lake. The walking is hot and exposed, and water has to be carried for the whole route.

What you actually see

• The collapse pit - the steaming shaft that gives the volcano its name.
• The Maribios chain - the line of cones seen from the ridge.
• Ridge camping - overnight stops with volcanoes on both horizons.
• Laguna El Tigre - the crater lake on the descent route.

When to go

December to April for the dry trail and clear air. Treks are run overnight to catch sunrise from the summit. The rainy season makes the route muddy and the views poor.

Honest expectations

The trek is hot, exposed and involves carrying all water for two days, which is heavy. Camping is basic with no facilities. The route is unmarked and needs a guide. Loose volcanic rock makes the descent hard on knees.

Nearby

Cerro Negro and Telica are in the same chain; León lies west.