Masaya Volcano

Visiting Masaya volcano is referred to as “adventure tourism,” particularly as it is still an active volcano: it erupted in 2001 spewing rocks, ash and smoke more than a mile into the air and injuring 150 people. It’s locally referred to as the “gates of hell,” possibly because it used to play host to human sacrifices. Now parakeets make their homes in the hills and in the afternoon can be seen returning. A nighttime hike is available to see bats and lava.