Cerro Negro (The Black Hill) is Central America’s youngest volcano, and possibly the most fun to climb!

It takes about an hour to hike up the hill, with rewarding views at the top, and an exhilarating one-minute slide back down to the bottom.

The way down is the most exciting part. One path is made of smooth volcanic sand instead of coarse rocky terrain. It is too steep to climb but perfect for descent. It takes less than a couple of minutes to run down the slope, and thrill seekers “volcano-board” to the base on wooden sleds. The path can also provide a slow, casual walk for those who just want to take in the scenery.

The only route to the summit is a steep, naturally paved trail. At the top is a trail around the rim of the crater, which often emits smoke. A stunning 360-degree panoramic view reveals the chain of active and dormant volcanoes, lined up one after the other, surrounded by blue skies and lush green foliage.