Hospedaje Ortiz

Mario Ortiz is the owner, and he lives here with his family. They do their best to make guests feel welcome. The place is cozy, though you shouldn’t expect much luxury. Mario can connect you with island guides, and rents fat tire bikes for $5 a day each. The former mayor and his family run the place.

The rooms and facilities are very basic, but the people are warm and welcoming. Ask them about things to do on the island or just have a chat. They can also set up guides for hikes on the Concepcion or Maderas volcanoes.

I had a nice three-night stay with this big family, and they were helpful and organized lots of different trips. I rented a horse once for $6 an hour. My single room cost $9 a night, which felt expensive for Nicaragua. There wasn’t a fan or mosquito net, despite what one of the references said. At first Arch. said I could use the kitchen. Later, Mario, his dad, wanted $2 because cooking beans uses more gas. I understand that, but they should have explained the charge beforehand. I also got the impression they would have preferred me to buy food from their “restaurant,” which made things a bit uncomfortable.

I stayed at hospedaje Ortiz for one night while visiting Ometepe, and the family who run it were so kind and welcoming. My $6 room was clean and comfortable, with a door that locked. They’re also really helpful with tips about the island, nearby beaches, and places to eat. I think breakfast is available there, though I left early and didn’t have any. It’s a lovely place to get a feel for family life in Altagracia. I enjoyed sitting in a rocking chair, hearing baseball in the street, then waking up to a rooster. If you’re after a resort, this isn’t the place. If you want to stay with a welcoming family, it’s a great fit.