Selva Negra, Matagalpa

Deep in the mist-shrouded highlands of Matagalpa, Selva Negra is a legendary sustainable retreat where alpine charm meets the biodiversity of the Nicaraguan cloud forest. Originally established by German immigrants in the late 19th century, this historic estate has evolved into one of the world’s most renowned eco-lodges. It is a place where tourism is transformed into awareness—a living, breathing farm and nature reserve where guests are invited to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the rhythms of the mountain. Whether you are wandering through coffee groves or watching the fog roll over the lagoon, Selva Negra offers an immersive experience rooted in heritage and environmental stewardship.

Rooms & Accommodation

The accommodations at Selva Negra are designed to feel like a seamless extension of the forest, ranging from cozy, rustic retreats to expansive family chalets.

  • Standard & Double Room Cabins: Perfectly immersed in the woods, these cabins offer a private, rejuvenating rest for couples and small groups.

  • Superior & Family Rooms: Located closer to the heart of the estate, these options provide modern comforts with a colonial touch, including the Karen and Yasica suites.

  • Family Chalets: For larger gatherings, the historic chalets like Viejo Otto, Bosche, and Alsacia can host up to 12 guests, offering a nostalgic, home-away-from-home atmosphere complete with wood accents and mountain views.

 

Dining

Dining at Restaurante La Laguna is a true farm-to-table journey, with the vast majority of ingredients sourced directly from the estate’s sister farm, La Hammonia. Overlooking a tranquil, swan-filled lagoon, the restaurant serves a blend of traditional Nicaraguan flavors and German-inspired heritage dishes. You can taste the freshness in every bite—from organic vegetables and mountain-raised meats to artisanal cheeses and fresh-baked goods from Roy’s Bakery. Of course, no meal is complete without a cup of their world-class estate-grown coffee, roasted on-site and served with the purest mountain water.

 

 Facilities

Selva Negra is a comprehensive ecosystem designed for both relaxation and education. The property features a historic chapel—a popular spot for mountain weddings—as well as versatile event spaces for social and corporate gatherings. The heart of the facility is the working farm, which includes a sustainable laboratory, organic greenhouses, and a composting system that powers the estate. For those looking for a quiet moment, the library and the numerous benches scattered around the lagoon provide perfect spots for reflection amidst the cool highland air.

 

Activities

The estate serves as a gateway to the clouds, offering a wealth of activities that celebrate the northern mountains.

  • Sustainable Farm & Coffee Tours: Gain a deep understanding of how your morning cup is grown, harvested, and processed in a way that protects the earth.

  • Hiking & Birdwatching: Explore over a dozen trails through the virgin cloud forest, where you can spot the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, howler monkeys, and hundreds of orchid species.

  • Night Tours & Horseback Riding: Experience the mountain’s transformation after dark or traverse the rolling hills on horseback for a different perspective of the landscape.

  • Cacao & Nature Tours: Discover the secrets of chocolate making or join a guided walk to learn about the complex biodiversity of the reserve.

 

Sustainability & Community

At Selva Negra, sustainability is not a buzzword; it is a way of life. The estate operates as a closed-loop system where waste is repurposed, energy is harnessed from the farm’s own resources, and the cloud forest is actively protected through a private reserve. The community is at the core of their mission—the estate provides housing, schooling, and medical care for the families who work the land. By staying here, you are supporting a pioneering model of regenerative tourism that proves human industry and wild nature can flourish in perfect harmony.