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POINT OF INTEREST

Christ of the Mercy (Cristo de La Misericordia)

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Guarding over the surf town of San Juan del Sur, the Christ of the Mercy (Cristo de La Misericordia) structure is one of the tallest Jesus statues in the world. From the lookout point, you can admire lush green landscapes that stretch to the Pacific Ocean, which are at their most magical around sunset.

It takes about 1 hour to hike up to the viewpoint if you’re of a moderate level of physical fitness—it’s a steep hike but worth it for the stunning views of the horseshoe-shaped beach at the bottom. You can see the towering Jesus statue from Playa San Juan del Sur, which makes the stretch of sand feel reminiscent of Rio do Janiero’s iconic Copacabana landscape, overlooked by Christ the Redeemer.

  • There’s a small entrance fee to the statue, so bring cash.

  • The steep climb to the top calls for sturdy shoes and a sunhat.

  • You won’t find any shops at the top, so bring plenty of water and some energy-rich snacks.

You can head to the statue from the north end of Playa San Juan del Sur; if you’re walking along the beach from the southern end, you’ll encounter a small river that you’ll need to cross in a boat for a small fee. From the center of town, it’s a 30-minute walk or 10-minute taxi to the start of the trail.

Because of how strenuous the climb to the top is, it’s best to visit Christ of the Mercy either in the morning or late afternoon—sunset is particularly gorgeous. The best time to visit San Juan del Sur is during the dry season from December through April.

San Juan del Sur is the undisputed surf capital of Nicaragua. Whether you’re just learning to ride the swell or have years of experience, Playa Maderas offers consistent waves perfect for all levels. It's home to several hostels, sunset cocktail bars, and surf camps where you can arrange lessons or board rentals depending on your ability.

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