Exclusive private island eco-resort on Lake Nicaragua with nine individual casitas offering panoramic lake and volcano views. Infinity pool, spa, organic farm-to-table dining, and complete tranquility. Sustainable luxury at its finest.
Jicaro Island Ecolodge occupies a private volcanic island of roughly one hectare in the Isletas de Granada archipelago, approximately 6 km by boat from the Granada waterfront. The Isletas are a cluster of 365 small islands formed around 10,000 years ago by an eruption of Volcán Mombacho, and Jicaro sits within this ecologically protected zone with open views across Lake Nicaragua—also known as Cocibolca, the largest freshwater lake in Central America—back toward Mombacho's cloud-forested slopes.
The lodge comprises nine individual casitas raised on stilts above the island's natural vegetation and connected by raised wooden walkways to preserve the ground-level ecosystem. Casitas vary from garden-view singles to the larger Hacienda Villa and all feature hand-carved furniture, indoor-outdoor bathrooms with open-air showers, and private wraparound decks with hammocks facing the lake. All materials were transported to the island by boat, and the architecture draws deliberately on Nicaraguan craft traditions.
An infinity pool overlooks the lake, and a dedicated spa pavilion offers massages and treatments using locally sourced botanicals. The kitchen follows a strict farm-to-table approach with organic produce grown on the island's garden plots and fish caught directly in Lake Nicaragua. The chef adjusts menus daily; communal dining is the default, but private in-casita service is available. Kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing rods are included in the room rate.
Bird watching is excellent year-round—the island hosts orioles, kingfishers, and multiple heron species. The maximum capacity of 18 guests makes Jicaro one of the most private small-scale luxury properties in Central America. The lodge is adults-only by design and does not accept children under 16.
Amenities
- private island
- infinity pool
- spa
- kayaks
- organic restaurant
- yoga
- transfers included
Location
Private Island, Granada Isletas, Granada
11.9100, -85.9250 View on map
Highlights
- Private volcanic island in the Isletas de Granada with maximum capacity of 18 guests
- Nine stilted casitas with open-air bathrooms and private lake-view decks
- Infinity pool and spa pavilion using locally sourced botanical treatments
- Farm-to-table kitchen with daily-changing menus using island-grown organic produce
- Excellent bird watching with resident kingfishers, orioles, and herons; kayaks and paddleboards included
Tips for visiting
- The boat transfer from the Granada dock takes about 15 minutes; arrange pickup time with the lodge in advance, especially if arriving late afternoon.
- Request the Hacienda Villa for the largest deck and best sunrise views over the lake — it books far in advance during peak season.
- Communal dinner is the social heart of the experience; guests who skip it miss the chef's daily menu and connection with other guests. Opt in unless privacy is the priority.
- Mosquitoes are more active at dusk in the rainy season (May–October); the lodge provides repellent but long sleeves at dinner are a practical choice.
When to visit
November to April for dry conditions; May to October for lush greenery and lower rates.
Accessibility
The island is connected by raised wooden walkways with gentle inclines. The boat transfer requires stepping on and off a small launch; guests with significant mobility limitations should contact the lodge in advance to assess suitability.