Nicaragua - Telica Volcano Hiking

Today we're heading to our first volcano! With lots of water, sunscreen, and headlights in our backpacks, we make our way to the foot of the volcano. We quickly find ourselves on a narrow path made by humans, which the locals use for their livestock. The jungle around us protects us from the morning sun rays and we can already spot some animals. There is also a great variety of butterflies that accompany us on our hike. We still don't know where the path leads. As we go higher, the forest thins out and we have an amazing view! We can see León beautifully, with mountains behind it and the ocean in sight. Take a deep breath and let's keep going. Now we're on a narrow path that runs along the edge, so we have to be careful where we step. The last few meters are exhausting but worth it. We reach a large meadow. Absolute peace reigns here, with free-roaming horses grazing around. Two trees provide shade under which we make ourselves comfortable. After a nap and a little snack, we continue towards the crater of the volcano. A new level, shaped by volcanic rocks. From a smaller summit, we make our final steps towards the crater. Anyone who has been on a volcano knows the feeling, but we were completely overwhelmed by the noise of the erupting rocks. Finally, we reach the top and we look down. It's almost 200 meters deep, boiling with a strong smell of sulfur. This is it, the Telica Volcano. If you look closely, you can even see a crack with lava. We called it 'The Entrance to Hell'. We want to come back in the dark to see the lava in all its glory. But for now, we continue to the bat cave, which is on the right side of the crater. After a short time, we're already there. Just a few meters down, we enter the cave. It doesn't take long before hundreds of bats flutter around us. Luckily, no bloodsuckers :). But there's not much time left, and we return to the beginning of the crater because the sunset is waiting for us. It's incredibly beautiful, with a view of León and the Pacific. Now we need the headlights! After a few minutes, we reach the edge of the crater again. Indescribable. Glowing red, just like you imagine hell. You can even see the lava moving. I really wouldn't want to be down there, but it's impressively beautiful! We can definitely recommend the 'Telica' volcano. Tours from Leon are also offered there.

Have you been to Telica or another volcano in Nicaragua? Then please leave me a comment :) I'm looking forward to your stories!