Volcán Mombacho looms over Granada from the south, its flanks covered in cloud forest that supports an unusual range of wildlife — howler monkeys, over 170 bird species, and some of the best-preserved tropical vegetation in Nicaragua. The summit area is managed as a nature reserve, with a truck that carries visitors up the steep road through the coffee-growing lower slopes to the ranger station.
From the top, on a clear morning, you get a sweeping view across Lago de Nicaragua and north toward Granada's red-tiled rooftops. Hiking trails wind around the crater rim and through fumarole fields where steam rises from vents in the rock. The cloud forest habitat means it is often cool and misty at altitude even when Granada is hot below. Tours run from Granada — most hostels and travel agencies can arrange half-day trips.