The hilly Zapatera Island, located inside Lake Nicaragua, can easily be seen from far. The silhouette of the island clearly shows a peak higher than the other hills. This is the Zapatera Hill, also known as the High Hill (Cerro Grande). Flora and fauna is still preserved at this hill, and this highest point of the island can be reached from the Sonzapote community. The hike requires some effort but the place is very attractive due to the beautiful natural habitat.

The hike takes around 6 hours from the Sonzapote community. Along the trail visitors will see some of the few, small plantations present at the island before entering the thick forest that covers the hill, inhabited by a variety of wildlife. Howler monkeys, chocoyo parakeets, and parrots can all be seen here. Jaguars, deer and armadillos also live here but they are rarely seen.

After reaching the top, hikers can continue to a viewpoint, located three kilometers ahead, that provides a superb view of the Island of Ometepe and the coast of San Jorge. This trail is not easy and being in good shape is necessary, but hikers who are prepared for this extra walk will enjoy this additional hike. Guides are available at the Sonzapote community for a price of US$12 por grupo (with a maximum of five people per group).

Other activities can also be organized around the Sonzapote community, including hiking to the petroglyphs, climbing the Las Banderas hill and fishing with a net.

How to get to Zapatera Island

The easiest way to get the Zapatera Island is by taking a boat from the Asese port in Granada. However, there is no public transportation to the island so the only way to organize this is to rent a private boat. Another way to get there is by contacting the Sonzapote Community (see Recommended Contacts to the left).