Description: Only a half-hour bike ride from Hacienda Merida lies one the most spectacular waterfalls in all of Central America. San Ramon Waterfall is located about a third of the way up Volcan Merida. The hike is a tough, three-kilometer climb from the bottom of the Ometepe Biological Field Station. The entrance fee of $2 is well worth the price of this amazing site. Even an experienced hiker will get winded from this one- to two-hour hike. The first two kilometers of the hike are the easiest of the three. The third is almost a climb through the stream, created by the falls. Make sure to bring at least a liter of water -- you are sure to have it finished by the time you get to the falls. The hike up is spectacular, with plenty of places to stop for a photo opportunity of the lake and fields below. Most of the way, you are in the sun, which makes the waterfall that much more refreshing when you reach it. The source of water for the island comes from the waterfall, so up the last bit of the trail pipes parallel the edge of the stream. The water is very crystal and clean, so feel free to drink the water at the higher elevations, but do not bathe in the stream. Also, do not use the bathroom near or around the stream -- do that at the bottom before you start the hike.
Upon rounding the corner for the last kilometer of the hike, you can hear the water rushing in the valley below. It almost seems like you should already be there, but you are still about 20 minutes away. The water at the falls is shallow, so don’t expect to swim. You can, however, step under the waterfall, but watch out for the occasional falling rock. Because there is no swimming, you will want to bring a lunch or a book so you can stay at the top for while. The hike back down is almost as hard as going up. I did it in sandals and was all right, but shoes would have been much better.
There are several ways to get to the waterfall, including biking, horseback riding, or kayaking. I biked to the park and then hiked to the falls, but I would recommend a horse if you’re not an experienced hiker or don’t want to walk three kilometers. San Ramon Waterfall is definitely not something to be missed in Nicaragua. The island of Ometepe itself is an adventure not to be passed up. If you find yourself in Nicaragua, make sure you check out Ometepe on Lake Nicaragua and all the sites it has to offer.
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