Isla Juan Venado Nature Reserve is an important protected area in Nicaragua. It forms part of the country's national park system and is well-known as a vital coastal wetland region.
The stunning Juan Venado Island is situated just one hour away from León. Upon arrival at Las Peñitas beach, your guide will take you aboard your private motorboat for a two-hour boat ride. Considered a barrier island, Juan Venado measures just 22 km in length, with a width of just 0.5 km and total size of three hectares.
Separating the coast from the island is an ecologically important mangrove forest or swamp. This biological zone provides the ideal home for an abundance of animal life, particularly marine creatures. The Pacific-facing edge of Juan Venado possesses a fine estuary and is a vital nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles (from May to November).
The estuary of Isla Juan Venado is home to a huge diversity of fauna, including water birds, caiman, crocodiles, iguanas and crustaceans.
There are no people living on the island, so you are guaranteed complete peace and tranquillity in beautiful natural surroundings.
A good mosquito repellent is recommended during your time on the island.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Nicaragua specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
León City Tour
Enjoy a pleasant walking tour of the wonderfully-atmospheric city of León, including time exploring the delightful art galleries, museums and beautiful colonial architecture of the city's historic buildings.
Volcano Cerro Negro Hike
Rising out of the green trees the black walls of Cerro Negro create a bizarre contrast with the surroundings. You hike first on trails and later on a kind of black dune created by former lava. As you reach the foot of the volcano you begin an easy climb up to the first of two active and colourful craters.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
