Nicaragua: You can surf down the side of an active volcano

You can find chill coastal communities such as San Juan del Sur The stellar swells that rage along the Pacific Coast in Nicaragua are no secret anymore. In the interior of the country, thrill-seekers are “volcano-boarding” down Cerro Negro’s black sand cone.

“Volcano board is an unforgettable experience that you should try while in Nicaragua,” Javier Silva, longtime Nicaraguan expat and executive Director of the non profit Lacrosse the Nations. The experience is as out of this world as you can imagine. You’ll be facing down the slopes a still-active volcanic volcano before descending at high speed in a manner that feels like a cross between sledding or go-kart racing. Boarders wear bright orange jumpsuits with ski goggles to protect themselves from the ashy sand spray that covers the sides of Cerro Negro. This only adds to the thrill of this experience.

Silva says, “Keep in Mind that You Probably Won’t Be Able to Stand Up On The Board; You’ll Definitely Want To Sit On It.” The descent is so steep, you will be moving very quickly and it can be difficult to control your board. Hold on and simply lean in the ride.”

What is the speed limit? You’ll find out when you reach the cone. The bottom of most volcanoes are equipped with radar guns that can measure speeds up to 40 miles an hour. If you are traveling with friends, and you have any competitive nature, it will be fun to see who can achieve the fastest speed.

Named after Travel + Leisure Editors are one of the most important members. best places to visit in 2025, Nicaragua Its untouched rainforests, with their immense biodiversity and pristine Caribbean islands with white sands, are a wonder to behold. For a destination still attracting many intrepid travellers, volcano boarding has to be one of its most popular experiences. Howard Coulson is the general manager at Jicaro Island Lodge, a sustainability-focused luxury lodge on a private island in Lake Nicaragua.

Most volcano boarders embark early in the morning from the charming city of León, located just 45 minutes from Cerro Negro. As volcano boarding has grown in popularity, tour operators are now offering the excursion from other locations across the country. Coulson suggests that many hotels and resorts like Jicaro Island Lodge offer private or small group excursions to guests. Vapues Travel Experienced guides who are certified.

León’s proximity to Cerro Negro allows volcano boarders to get an early start on the expedition, beating the crowds and avoiding the midday sun, which can make the experience more challenging. Coulson cautions, “It is important for travelers to know that the experience can sometimes be demanding.” He cites the high temperatures and sun-baked surface on the volcano as the reason. Although the descent down the slopes lasts for less than a second, the hour-long climb up the cone is what makes the experience challenging. The sandy, insecure terrain and constant incline make it difficult.

Boarders are advised to come prepared for their experience. Wear sneakers or hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Also, make sure you have sunscreen and sun protection equipment like clothing with UPF ratings and a sunhat that has a chinstrap. While tour operators provide orange jumpsuits on the descent, you will want to feel comfortable while ascending the mountain.

The view from the top is something that visitors often overlook until they are there. Coulson describes the experience of walking to the top of a volcano as “truly special”.

The views stretch for miles, but peering into Cerro Negro, which is less than 200-years-old and is still emitting streams of smoke and gas, can be just as captivating. Silva says that the ride down the volcano was a highlight of the trip.