Masaya National Park

National Park

V!VA User‘s Description

The Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya is Nicaragua’s oldest national park. Its 54 sq km (34 sq mi) contains three volcanoes: Santiago, Masaya and Nidiri still spewing sulfuric gases into the park. Because of this phenomenon, the Volcán Masaya is one of the largest natural polluters in the world. The best hiking trail is through the Santiago crater between Masaya and Nidiri. Lake Masaya features ancient petroglyphs and some unique flora and fauna. Camping is also possible in the park.

Just outside of the Parque Nacional Masaya is the town of Masaya, Nicaragua’s crafts and folklore capital. The main market features embroidery, tapestries, jewelry, ceramics, instruments and much more. You can find some of Central America’s best bargains here. With more artisan citizens than any other place in Nicaragua, this is also the capital for religious festivals including Central America’s longest, the San Jerónimo festival, which lasts from September 30 until the end of December.