You will hear the residents of Isla El Padre before you see them. Set between Mancarrón and San Fernando and named for yet another priest who long ago sought solitude in these tranquil waters, it’s inhabited by a troupe of howler monkeys.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Isla Sevilla

5.45 MILES

Isla Sevilla, just west of Mancarroncito, is a haven for birdwatchers, with thousands of cormorants, tiger herons and pelicans here to enjoy some…

2. Islas Zapote & Zapotillo

9.29 MILES

Avid birders won’t want to miss tiny Islas Zapote and Zapotillo, which feature Nicaragua’s highest concentration of birds, most famously flocks of roseate…

3. Mirador

14.79 MILES

A charming old Spanish observation post complete with cannons and panoramic views. To reach it, head up the staircase at the far end of the malecón.

4. Fortaleza de San Carlos

14.84 MILES

There's not much left of the town's fortress, which dates from 1724, but it enjoys some impressive Lake Nicaragua and Río San Juan views from several…

5. Malecón

14.85 MILES

The social heart of the town, this waterfront promenade overlooks both the lake and river and is always busy with children playing and couples taking a…

6. Reserva Esperanza Verde

17.13 MILES

Nestled on the Río Frío, roughly halfway between San Carlos and Los Chiles, is this private 50 sq km humid tropical forest reserve. Expect to see hundreds…

8. Sistema de Humedales de San Miguelito

22.76 MILES

The San Miguelito wetlands contain a handful of rivers, including the gorgeous Río Piedra, a glassy slice of black water framed by a dense tangle of…