“Private island getaway” may sound too good to be true, but Jicaro Island Lodge offers that and more on Lake Nicaragua. At this picture-perfect sustainable lodge, luxury and relaxation go hand in hand. A member of the Cayuga Collection portfolio of sustainable luxury hotels, this private island retreat in Nicaragua consists of nine casitas on the island, each just a short walk from the lodge’s extensive amenities.
The Experience
A scenic destination for wellness and yoga retreats, Jicaro Island Lodge is ideal for honeymooners, families, friends or solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature and escape the hectic speed of daily life.
Once you set foot on the exclusive island, there’s no need to venture elsewhere for the duration of your stay if true relaxation is what you crave. Nine casitas sit high above ground, nestled in the treetops of the rainforest. Boasting lakeside views from each room, the private bungalows have a spacious upstairs bedroom and downstairs area complete with a hammock on the waterfront deck.
Culinary offerings at Jicaro Island Lodge are hyper local, providing locally sourced, fresh food for each meal. Menus are geared to nourish each guest in a sustainable way. Guests can enjoy open air dining and spend evenings watching the sunset from the floating deck.
Tours and Activities
Shrouded by untouched nature and facing the Mombacho Volcano, the lodge offers its fair share of views. A dedicated yoga deck looks out over Lake Nicaragua, allowing guests to take in the sights while strengthening their practice.
Guests can also enjoy the solitude of the floating deck for a sunrise meditation or private yoga session. Lazy days can be spent paddle boarding and kayaking, followed by a range of healing massages in the wellness center.
Sustainability tours travel around the island, describing everything that goes into creating an eco-lodge. The unique location also allows for intimate boat tours of the Granada Islets and excursions to learn artisanal fishing techniques, using nets and row boats.
Nature lovers can hike, climb the volcano, go birdwatching and visit nearby coffee farms and hot springs. Adventure seekers have a surplus of activities to choose from, from horseback riding to sand boarding to flying through the treetops on a zip line.
Although secluded, this private island retreat in Nicaragua is only a short boat ride away from the charming colonial town of Granada. Culture lovers can take a city tour, visit the Flor de Caña rum distillery or go off the grid to try local delicacies.
With something for everyone, Jicaro Island Lodge offers the perfect blend of active experiences and relaxation for an exclusive, feel-good holiday off-the-beaten-path.
What We Love
We love when a hotel thoughtfully integrates sustainability with modern amenities, having layers of impact in their community. You can read more about their sustainability efforts here, but below are some of the highlights:
- Sustainable Design (built entirely from reclaimed wood)
- Local Community Support (local staff and vendors)
- Organic & Biodegradable Cleaning Supplies
- Solar Power & Energy Efficient Lighting
- Low-Waste & Strong Recycling Program
- Community-Based Educational Programs
- Sustainable Food Projects (investing in the local community)
- It’s a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World
Plan Your Visit
Jicaro Island Lodge is located minutes from the colonial town of Granada on Lake Nicaragua. To get there, fly into Managua International Airport (MGA). The hotel can arrange your pick you up from Arrivals and drive you to Asese Port in the city of Granada (one hour away). Then, you’ll travel 15 minutes by boat to Jicaro Island.
Alternatively, you can make arrangements for the hotel to pick you up from any other hotel or location in Nicaragua, or even across the border at Liberia Airport (LIR) in Costa Rica, which is three hours from Jicaro Island Lodge.
The best time to go is May-November, during the wet, or green season. There may be more sporadic rain, but the country is lush and green, crowds are fewer and rates are better.
Get Exclusive Discounts & Perks
Jicaro Island Lodge is a Travara Membership partner. Each Travara Member receives 20% off the rack rate. In addition, Travara members also receive 50% off their first spa treatment of choice; a complimentary bottle of wine; and a complimentary signature activity for two, either a one hour Artisanal Fishing Tour or a Cooking/Cocktail class.
Sign up for a Travara Membership here to access these exclusive discounts and perks at Jicaro Island Lodge!
-Annie Lancaster
