Jicaro Island Lodge: Nicaragua’s Hidden Eco-Luxury Gem

Awaken to the sounds of tropical birds, sip local Nicaraguan coffee on your private deck, and watch the sun rise over the Mombacho Volcano. At Jicaro Island Lodge, luxury isn't just defined by thread counts or infinity pools—it’s about harmony with nature, cultural connection, and meaningful impact.

Located just minutes from Granada, Jicaro is a private island ecolodge offering nine handcrafted casitas built from reclaimed wood—each positioned for maximum privacy, natural breeze, and lakefront views. This serene escape is a proud member of Giving Bag, a global collective of hospitality leaders redefining what sustainable travel looks like in 2025.

Eco-Luxury Rooted in Resilience

After Hurricane Felix devastated Nicaragua’s forests in 2007, Jicaro repurposed storm-felled hardwoods to build its casitas, furniture, and decks. The lodge’s entire design ethos orbits sustainability: structures are nestled around ancient boulders and mature trees, preserving the island’s natural integrity. Even the toiletries are biodegradable and the linens bamboo-organic.

You won’t find plastic bottles here. Solar water heaters provide comfort without cost to the planet. Greywater recycling systems and energy-efficient lighting round out an operation that’s as green as its lush surroundings.

Dining with Purpose

Jicaro’s open-air restaurant serves up seasonal menus with ingredients sourced from nearby organic farms and local fishers. The culinary experience isn’t just fresh—it’s regenerative. Guests with dietary preferences will feel at home too, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options always on the table.

Impact Beyond the Island

More than just a luxury stay, Jicaro actively uplifts its surrounding communities. One example? Their partnership with the Padre Nello School, where a solar-powered water filtration system was installed with lodge support. Many of the lodge’s staff hail from local towns, and Jicaro continues to provide job training and cultural education programs.

Want to make your stay more meaningful? Guests can visit local projects, join sustainability tours, or even contribute to Giving Bag initiatives that redistribute gently used items to local Nicaraguan charities.

Tranquility Meets Adventure

From early morning yoga with volcano views to gliding silently on a paddleboard across the lake, the experience at Jicaro is immersive. You’ll find no loud jet skis here—just the call of birds, the whisper of palm leaves, and the soul-deep calm that only true eco-travel can deliver.

Plan Your Stay

Ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone craving eco-luxury with purpose, Jicaro Island Lodge is open year-round. The best time to visit? Between November and April, during Nicaragua’s dry season. Book early—with only nine casitas, availability fills fast.

Want to experience the best of Nicaragua’s sustainable travel scene? Jicaro Island Lodge proves you don’t have to compromise comfort for conscience. Whether you’re planning your honeymoon or a quiet reset, this award-winning ecolodge offers the perfect balance of serenity, sustainability, and soul.

Explore more Impact Hotels like Jicaro and join the movement at impacthotels.co.