Description

The Masaya Volcano National Park comprises an area of ​​54km² that includes two volcanoes and five craters. Volcanoes have erupted on various occasions and formerly frightened Spanish natives and conquerors. The Spanish named the active volcano "La Boca del Infierno". In the 16th century they put a cross, "La Cruz de Bobadilla" (for Father Francisco Bobadilla), at the mouth of the crater to exorcise the demon.

The eruptions have had a dramatic impact on the surrounding area. Volcanic rocks still cover the surroundings. Nature is a bit rough, yet peaceful. Different types of vegetation appeared after the eruptions. The park is inhabited by various types of animals. The park's wildlife includes coyotes, skunks, raccoons, possums, iguanas, deer, and monkeys.

Visitors can observe the crater from the banks of the volcano. There is always smoke coming out of it. From this crater you can reach others. Be sure to tiptoe a bit to observe the rising smoke and magnificent views. There are many other paths that will take you to the other craters or to the Tzinaconostoc cave where there are hundreds of bat nests. The paths vary in distance between 1.4 and 5.9 kilometers, and visitors are accompanied by guides.

On the way up you can find a well-conditioned and very interesting museum, which offers information about the Masaya volcano, as well as other volcanoes in other areas of the country and their geological processes. There is also a lot of information about the flora and fauna of the park.