10 Things to Do in El Chonco Ecological Reserve, Rama Nicaragua



El Chonco Ecological Reserve in Rama, Nicaragua is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Located in the middle of the Río San Juan River, El Chonco is a paradise of lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural experiences. Here are 10 activities to do in El Chonco Ecological Reserve that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Hike the Trails

El Chonco is home to over 10 miles of trails, making it a perfect spot for hiking. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a challenging trek, you’ll find your perfect trail here. From the trails, you’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, toucans, and sloths.

2. Go Bird Watching

El Chonco Ecological Reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise. There are over 200 species of birds that can be spotted in the reserve, including toucans, parrots, and hummingbirds. Bring your binoculars and look for the rare and endangered species of birds that call El Chonco home.

3. Take a Boat Tour

Take a boat tour of the Río San Juan River and explore the beauty of El Chonco from a different perspective. You’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles. The boat tour will also take you to the nearby Isla de los Choncos, where you can explore the ruins of an ancient indigenous village.

4. Visit the Indigenous Villages

El Chonco is home to several small indigenous villages. Take a tour of the villages and learn about the unique customs and traditions of the local people. You’ll also be able to sample the local cuisine and purchase handcrafted items from the villagers.

5. Go Fishing

El Chonco is a great spot for fishing. The Río San Juan River is home to a variety of species, including tarpon, snook, and barracuda. Bring your own gear or rent equipment from one of the local fishing guides.

6. Go Kayaking

Explore El Chonco by kayak and enjoy the serenity of the river. You’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and birds. You can also take a guided tour of the mangroves, where you can learn about the importance of the mangrove ecosystem.

7. Visit the Waterfalls

El Chonco is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the impressive Chonco Waterfall. Take a hike to the waterfall and enjoy the stunning views. You can also swim in the pools at the base of the waterfall.

8. Go Horseback Riding

Explore El Chonco on horseback and take in the stunning views of the rainforest. Horseback riding is a great way to get around the reserve and spot wildlife. You can also take a guided tour of the trails and learn about the local flora and fauna.

9. Go Camping

El Chonco is a great spot for camping. There are several designated camping areas in the reserve, where you can pitch your tent and enjoy the beauty of the rainforest. Bring your own supplies or rent camping gear from one of the local vendors.

10. Take a Cooking Class

Learn how to cook traditional Nicaraguan dishes with a cooking class in El Chonco. You’ll be able to sample the local cuisine and learn about the unique ingredients used in Nicaraguan cooking. The cooking class is a great way to learn about the culture of the local people.

El Chonco Ecological Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. With its lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural experiences, El Chonco is the perfect spot for a nature-filled vacation. Plan your trip to El Chonco and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.