Camping in Nicaragua

I immediately regretted that Cassie and I moved to Nicaragua without a tent.  Others had informed us that there were not many camping options to be found so it had not made our list of items to bring.  However, over time we found out that in fact there were places to camp, so soon we were able to get a tent brought down and have been putting it to use ever since.  

It should be noted that it is not recommended to camp on isolated locations.  We always camp in national parks or on the grounds of reputable hostels and have found this to be both comfortable and safe.

Just in case you may be looking for a good option to get outdoors, we thought we would share our experiences and recommendations.  Here are a few of the places that we have stayed and would recommend:

Finca Magdalena, Isla de Ometepe - At just $3 dollars per night, per tent this is the most economical deal that we have found in Nicaragua.  It is located on the base of Volcan Maderas and is a great night’s sleep before the big hike.  We stayed here with Cassie’s brother and sister and could not believe that we only had to pay 75 cents per person.

http://fincamagdalena.com/hostel

Matildas, San Juan Del Sur - At Matildas you can basically set your tent up within a ten second walk to the surf.  This place is wonderful and just happens to be located on my favorite beach in Nicaragua.  The cost per tent is $5 a night and this gives you access to their bathrooms and cooking facilities.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g528745-d2038066-Reviews-Matilda_s-San_Juan_del_Sur_Rivas_Department.html

La Bastilla Ecolodge, Jinotega - This ecolodge is located on the edge of the largest rain forest in Central America.  It is a bit difficult to get here, but the views, the hikes through their coffee farm and the experiences you will have with the nature surrounding the lodge will make it worth your trip.  The cost is $10 per tent, per night and they even provide you tents if needed.  Just be careful to not set up your tent on an ant hill.  We paid for this!

http://bastillaecolodge.com/

  

If you use one of their tents, they will even decorate the inside!

Somoto Canyon – Fausto, our friend and tour guide recently acquired a tent that he will gladly set up in the canyon for guests.  He grew up in the canyon, knows the secret spots and will provide a safe and enjoyable time.  He is recommended in the Moon Guide and his direct number is: 505-8643-3972

             

Pajaro Azul, Laguna de Apoyo - At the "Blue Bird" you can set up camp along the banks of a volcano's crater for only $4 a night per person.  The place is wonderful and we have been the only guests there during our visits.

http://lagunadeapoyopajaroazul.blogspot.com/p/galeria-de-fotos.html

Camino del Gigante Hostel, Playa Gigante, Rivas – For only $3 per person, per night, this is another cheap option that allows you to set up right on the sand.  You can enjoy a weekend away in this isolated and peaceful little beach community and grill-up the local catch of the day

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1631136-d2154408-Reviews-Camino_Del_Gigante-Playa_Gigante_Rivas_Department.html

Rancho Esperanza, Jiquilillo - The rancho is a nature lovers destination as one will find themselves camping in the Padre Ramos estuary. This is a good place to enjoy the Nica life, go for a swim, surf, read a book from their expansive library or engage in one of their on-going community projects.  The cost is $5 per person, per night and allows you to access all facilities.

http://rancho-esperanza.com/

 

Finca Neblina del Bosque, Miraflor – This finca is located in Nicaragua's only cloud forest.  The place is gorgeous and the vegetarian food that they serve up, which is all grown on their farm, is amazing.  The cost is $8 per person, per night.

http://www.neblinadelbosque.com/index.php/en/

 

El Chocoyero, Masaya - Chocoyero is a natural reserve just an hour's bus ride from the capital.  Birds nest here, there is a waterfall and the workers are always excited to see you.  Oh and the best part, you can camp!  Cost is $5 per night, per person.

http://vianica.com/attraction/1/chocoyero-el-brujo-natural-reserve

The above tent belongs to our friend Estevan.  You could seriously park a car inside.