Mombacho Volcano

Mombacho rises to 1,344 metres directly above Granada, and because it catches moisture off Lake Nicaragua its upper slopes carry cloud forest, a habitat that is rare in this dry part of the country: mossy trunks, bromeliads and orchids in quantity, with several species found on this volcano alone. Trails circle the crater rim past fumaroles that vent steam through the vegetation, and viewpoints look down over Granada, the lake and the islets below. Howler monkeys, sloths and a long bird list live in the forest. A specially built truck carries visitors up the steep road from the base station, since private cars cannot manage it. A canopy zip line and coffee farms operate on the lower slopes.

What you actually see

• Cloud forest - mossy trees hung with orchids and bromeliads.
• Crater fumaroles - steam venting through the vegetation on the rim trails.
• The lake panorama - Granada, Las Isletas and Lake Nicaragua below.
• Howler monkeys - troops audible across the forest.

When to go

December to April is the dry season and gives the best chance of a view; the summit is often in cloud even then, which is what makes the forest what it is. May to November brings heavy rain and slippery trails.

Honest expectations

The summit is frequently clouded in and the view is not guaranteed. Access is only by the park truck, which runs to a timetable and can sell out. Trails are muddy and the longer crater circuit needs a guide. It is cool and wet at the top even when Granada is hot.

Nearby

Granada lies north; Apoyo Lagoon is northwest.