Laguna de Apoyo
We are blessed to find ourselves in the heart of the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve! The reserve surrounds a stunning fresh water lake lying in the crater of one of Nicaragua’s many volcanos, formed 23,000 year ago. It is a genuine oasis of protected tropical dry forest situated between the beautiful colonial city of Granada, and the bustling, authentic city of Masaya (both a mere 25 minutes drive away).
The lake water is is warmed by geothermal vents beneath the surface which serve to maintain a water temperature of 28°-30°c, ideal for swimming and long water sessions. Dayime temperatures range from 23°-35°c depending on the season with sun pretty much year round. Although the rainy season runs May – September, showers often occur in the evening or throughout the night resulting in fresh mornings and regular clear daytime skies.
Laguna de Apoyo
We are blessed to find ourselves in the heart of the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve! The reserve surrounds a stunning fresh water lake lying in the crater of one of Nicaragua’s many volcanos, formed 23,000 year ago. It is a genuine oasis of protected tropical dry forest situated between the beautiful colonial city of Granada, and the bustling, authentic city of Masaya (both a mere 25 minutes drive away).
The lake water is is warmed by geothermal vents beneath the surface which serve to maintain a water temperature of 28°-30°c, ideal for swimming and long water sessions. Dayime temperatures range from 23°-35°c depending on the season with sun pretty much year round. Although the rainy season runs May – September, showers often occur in the evening or throughout the night resulting in fresh mornings and regular clear daytime skies.
The reserve is abundant in endemic fauna and flora with the forest canopy bursting with over 230 varieties of birds including falcons, hummingbirds, toucancitos, oropendolas, kingfishers and the sublime Guardabarranco (national bird of Nicaragua!).
Ant eaters, opossums, pacas, and supposedly even the illusive jaguarundi call this crater home, it’s also unlikely that a gaze upwards would not reward you with a glimpse of either the howler monkeys or white faced capuchin troops that scour the trees on their never ending search for fruit!
The Laguna’s iguanas are a common sight, but if you go for a hike through the trees up to one of the viewpoints overlooking the lake, keep your eyes peeled, and if you aren’t fooled by their camouflage, you may even spot yourself a boa.
Laguna Wildlife
The reserve is abundant in endemic fauna and flora with the forest canopy bursting with over 230 varieties of birds including falcons, hummingbirds, toucancitos, oropendolas, kingfishers and the sublime Guardabarranco (national bird of Nicaragua!).
Ant eaters, opossums, pacas, and supposedly even the illusive jaguarundi call this crater home, it’s also unlikely that a gaze upwards would not reward you with a glimpse of either the howler monkeys or white faced capuchin troops that scour the trees on their never ending search for fruit!
The Laguna’s iguanas are a common sight, but if you go for a hike through the trees up to one of the viewpoints overlooking the lake, keep your eyes peeled, and if you aren’t fooled by their camouflage, you may even spot yourself a boa.
Where to Stay...
The laguna attracts both locals and foreigners; who flock to experience the tranquility and clear waters, offering an escape from the busy cities that surround it. There are various options for accommodation with all offering day passes for those not wanting to spend the night. Prices vary from place to place and there is a mixed offering of dorms/privates so something to suit every type of traveller.
Food options in the laguna are somewhat limited; the hotels all have restaurant facilities, and some have kitchen access. For those that want to eat out, but on a budget, the cafe at Freediving Nicaragua offers vegetarian lunches at very affordable prices or there are 2 local comadores offering typical Nicaraguense plates for around $5.
Where to Stay...
The laguna attracts both locals and foreigners; who flock to experience the tranquility and clear waters, offering an escape from the busy cities that surround it. There are various options for accommodation with all offering day passes for those not wanting to spend the night. Prices vary from place to place and there is a mixed offering of dorms/privates so something to suit every type of traveller.
Food options in the laguna are somewhat limited; the hotels all have restaurant facilities, and some have kitchen access. For those that want to eat out, but on a budget, the cafe at Freediving Nicaragua offers vegetarian lunches at very affordable prices or there are 2 local comadores offering typical Nicaraguense plates for around $5.