UPDATE: Please do not visit this establishment. Read the comments below to find out more about the dangerous individuals who run El Indio Viejo in Ometepe.

Finding Our Way to Hostel El Indio Viejo in Ometepe

Hostel El Indio Viejo provided us with much more than just accommodation on Ometepe. Thanks to the warmth of its owner, we were granted a fantastic insight into the some of the gems this island has to offer.

From Granada to Moyogalpa via Altagracia

But we almost forewent our reservations at first. We traveled by boat from Granada on one of the semiweekly ferries and arrived late in Altagracia firmly expecting a chicken bus to transit across the island. This proved to be a vain expectation. Instead, we found nothing but taxi services prepared to charge us $20 for the hour drive. Luckily we split the tab with two other backpackers and arrived nice and starved in front of hostel El Indio Viejo where the best burrito in the world was waiting for us. I know what you ´re thinking, you ´ve already had 3 of the best burritos in the world before, some probably late at night. Just you go and try that one and come back and let me know.

El Indio Viejo Social Center of Moyogalpa

If Moyogalpa does not look like much at first, one quickly realizes that this is the heart of the island. And in the middle of the town  lies  El Indio Viejo, once known as Hospedaje Central, making it an obligatory stop for locals and travelers alike. The aforementioned restaurant is always lively making it a great common area and the owner seems to always be prepared to share with you what ever you have come prepared to listen to. Do not judge this man too quickly by his shamanic dread, instead sit down and listen, in French if possible since his goal is to return the language to his former splendor.

Discover the True Rhythm of Ometepe

I have rarely spent 6 night in a row in a hostel. Here is the exception. Was the bed fantastic and the bathroom spotless? Not quite, but everything was clean and up to par with what you will find in Nicaragua. However, there is no better place to come and get infused with the culture of Nahuas tribes. I won ´t give you any spoiler but instead make sure to inquire about the three mysteries of the island.

Throughout our stay there, we also biked the island of Ometepe, climbed volcano Madeira rented out a motorbike to go and visit Ojo del Agua. Everything was arranged under the guidance of El Indio Viejo.

In conclusion, not only would I go back there, but I would encourage anybody who is looking for a different experience to spend some time at this hostel.