Description
The Cerro Arenal Natural Reserve is part of a beautiful mountain massif, and it is located in the department of Matagalpa. This area encompasses 1,428 hectares of forested mountain slopes and is houses an impressive array of flora and fauna. It is located along the road that connects Matagalpa and Jinotega. The highest point in the reserve is located at a height of 1,570 meters above sea level, and this height permits the tropical cloud forest to thrive.
The reserve is not a strictly closed-off, fenced area, but instead it is a large zone that includes mostly forests but also farms and some rural houses of people living along the roads that border the Cerro Arenal reserve.
People looking for nature, tranquility, and beautiful hiking opportunities will find this a great site. The trails are of a varying difficulty and duration, which makes it possible for each type of hiker to find something to their liking. The climate is cooler than at sea level and the views are spectacular. Animals that can be spotted include monkeys, armadillos, a wide variety of birds and many other animal species. Even the quetzal can be seen here!
Other attractions include one of the oldest oak trees of Central America, superb food and coffee served at the farms located within or close to the reserve, and the production of flowers, strawberries, and coffee at these places.
The abundance of water and frequent but unpredictable rain showers make solid footwear and good clothing a must. It is furthermore important to bring a guide who can not only lead the group along the unmarked trails, but also point out hidden animals, interesting plants, and tell about the history of the site.
Getting There
The area can be accessed via the Matagalpa-Jinotega road, but also via the Arenales-Aranjuez road, the Selva Negra-San Luis trail, or the Las Escaleras-San Antonio trail.
Online Reservations
We have 3 related tour(s) available that can be booked online.
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From US$45.00
Sustainable farming and Hiking in the Cloud Forest
By: Matagalpa Tours
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From US$120.00
Green Oasis of Matagalpa
By: Matagalpa Tours
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From US$360.00
The northern Ecolodges: The paradise behind the mountains
By: Matagalpa Tours
Comments
maria wrote on Nov 5, 2009:
Fuera mas hermoso de observar y mostrar si lo mostraran mas grande, o en si la totalidad del lugar, muestren las belleza natural que rodea a su pueblo se necesita lev antar la economia y ofrecer nas empleo a la comunidad, suerte y adelante.