Surrounding Area

The Coast

Twenty minutes north of Jiquilillo by road, or an hour’s walk along the beach, are the communities Los Zorros and Padre Ramos, where you can discover a secluded estuary and its myriad intricate inlets. The estuary leads inland to a protected area of mangroves and scattered islands with varied bird life. Guided tours are available in Spanish by SELVA, the local environmental group based in Padre Ramos. For groups of 4 or more boat tours can be arranged.

Padre Ramos also has a restaurant where you can eat sea food and buy jewelry made by a local women’s co-operative.

Volcan Cosiguina

Three hours north of Jiquilillo, with a turquoise crater lake and stunning views to Honduras, El Salvador and across the Golf of Fonseca, is Volcan Cosiguina. Trips to hike the volcano, lead by a local guide, can be organized through Rancho Esperanza for groups of 4 people or more (as at July 2006, $30 per person); a few days advanced warning is required to set up transport, so do phone ahead.

It is also possible to use local bus services and visit the volcano independently from Potosi or the quiet town of Cosiguina. Cosiguina offers affordable accommodation for travelers and nearby natural hot springs and pools are accessible in a day’s hike.

Nearby Towns

El Viejo, just outside Chinandega on the Jiquilillo road, is a colorful and lively little town where you can find internet, cheap international calls, pharmacies, shops and a market.

All the same services, plus banks with ATMs and travelers check cashing, and doctors, can be found 20 minutes further on in Chinandega.

webmaster Brian VanGalder