Aguas del Arenal

Top choice


In the heart of the Reserva Natural Cerro El Arenal, this secluded and intimate family-run lodge is perfect for those looking for a more laid-back coffee country experience. The 7-hectare coffee farm has five spacious and comfortable cabañas as well as four rooms in the main house, where you'll also find the cozy common area, complete with a fireplace.

The farm is powered by its own mini hydroelectric plant and the warm and friendly German owner roasts his own coffee. There are five trails on the farm and accommodations include an informative tour. There's a stream where guests can cool off and even a sauna to sweat away those cool mountain nights. Tours offered include hiking (US$30 for five hours) and an all day cacao tour (prices vary depending on your transportation needs). It's also possible to camp here for just US$3 per person.

The bus from Matagalpa to Aranjuez passes close by the entrance to the farm but it gets very crowded. Alternatively, the farm is about a 30-minute walk from the Matagalpa–Jinotega road; the owner will pick you up at the turnoff for US$5, or in Matagalpa for US$15.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Selva Negra

2.13 MILES

If you’re looking for comfort with your virgin cloud forest experience, then Selva Negra – part family resort, part coffee farm and part rainforest…

2. Cascada Blanca

5.59 MILES

Surrounded by forest, this impressive 15m waterfall a short walk from the highway fills a large deep swimming hole. When it's quiet it's absolutely lovely…

3. Iglesia Catedral San Pedro

6.98 MILES

Built in 1874, Matagalpa's glorious, whitewashed neoclassical cathedral is flooded with light. Inside the sanctuary are a natural wood altar, gorgeous…

4. Museo Nacional de Café

7.12 MILES

This absorbing museum features large, glossy, printed displays in Spanish and English on the roots of modern coffee production in the region, as well as…

5. Iglesia Molagüina

7.28 MILES

The 1751 Iglesia Molagüina, in the center of town, is the plainest of Matagalpa's churches, but has nice gardens.

6. Iglesia San José

7.47 MILES

Originally constructed in 1751 and used as a jail for indigenous rebels in the late 1800s, this church was rebuilt in 1917 by Franciscan friars. The…

7. Casa Museo Comandante Carlos Fonseca

7.51 MILES

Commander Carlos Fonseca, the Sandinista equivalent of Malcolm X (read: bespectacled, goateed, intense, highly charismatic), grew up desperately poor in…

8. Iglesia de los Angeles

7.73 MILES

This modern concrete church has a high, rectangular bell tower that looks at first glance like a water storage facility. It's a popular reference point…