Nicaragua
9 Nights / 10 Days
Get a Free Quote for Private Shuttle
Nicaragua
9 Nights / 10 Days
Get a Free Quote for Private Shuttle
Day 01: Managua – Las Salinas, Tola, Rivas
Airport greeting by professional driver and private transfer to Las Salinas Area Selected Hotel.
Day 02: Beach Day at Playa Rancho Santana
Enjoy a beach day, by a private transfer to Rancho Santana Beach. Once there, you’ll have the whole day to soak up the sun, feel the sand between your toes, and listen to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Whether you’re into swimming, surfing, or simply lounging under the shade of a palm tree with a good book, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s bound to be a day filled with relaxation and unforgettable moments by the sea.
Day 03: Exploring the Enchantment of Nahualapa Hot Springs in Popoyo
Let the healing powers of Nahualapa Hot Springs envelop you as you soak in the rejuvenating waters. Known for their therapeutic properties, these natural springs offer a myriad of health benefits, from soothing sore muscles to promoting overall wellness.
Day 04: Granada City
Private transfer from Las Salinas to Granada. After your lunch in Las Salinas, the next leg of your journey begins. The road stretches out before you, winding its way through picturesque vistas and quaint villages. After a journey of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, Granada comes into view, its rich history and vibrant culture beckoning you closer.
Day 05: Mombacho Volcano
Discover the Beauty and Thrills of Mombacho Volcano: Hike, Tour, and Canopy Adventure!
Begin your day with a guided hike up the slopes of Mombacho, where you’ll traverse lush rainforests and encounter unique wildlife along the way. Our knowledgeable guides will regale you with fascinating insights into the volcano’s geology, history, and ecological significance. The adventure doesn’t end there! Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping canopy tour, where you’ll zip line through the forest canopy and experience the thrill of flight amidst the treetops.
Day 06: Granada City Tour, Private Boat ride around part of the Isletas, Night Lava Tour
No visit to Granada is complete without a tour of the city’s historic center. Founded by the Spanish in 1524, Granada is one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas. On this guided tour you’ll travel both on foot and in a classic horse-drawn carriage to explore key sites including the San Francisco church and adjacent San Francisco Convent, built in 1529. You’ll also visit the Merced church where you have the opportunity to climb the bell tower and enjoy spectacular views over the city, Lake Nicaragua, and Mombacho volcano. The last stop is the oldest part of the city where you visit the Xalteva church and the old city walls.
The Granada Islets:
When the Mombacho Volcano erupted thousands of years ago, it threw huge rocks into Lake Nicaragua. As a result of this violent eruption 365 islets were formed in front of Granada. The islets differ in size between a hundred square meters and over one hundred hectares. The wild nature, resident birds and visitors and the day-a-day routine of the local families make it an ideal place for a boat ride. Taking a boat ride to the islets of Granada is a fun, relaxed way of exploring Central America’s biggest lake.
Masaya’s volcano night tour:
Experience the thrilling sights and sounds of the Masaya Volcano by night! Shortly before sunset head over to the volcano where you will hopefully get a chance to see the green “Chocoyos” (Parakeets) returning to their nests inside the crater. Amazingly, these birds have adapted to withstand the sulfurous fumes emitted from the volcano. At around the same time, you will see massive numbers of bats as they leave their caves and head out for the night – another great sight. The night ends with a trip to a viewpoint which will allow you to look inside the crater mouth. Here you will have the opportunity to observe the glow of the lava from inside a crater formed in 2006. The red glow of the lava illuminates the surroundings, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Day 07: León City
Private Transfer from Granada to León. On your way to León you´ll make a short stop at the Masaya´s handicraft market so you have the opportunity to purchase some great Nicaraguan Souvenirs and after a Typical Nicaraguan Lunch you will continue your journey to León City. Historically, Leon has always been one of Nicaragua’s most important cities, both economically and socially. In fact, the city functioned as capital of the country multiple times after the independence (1821), alternating the title with Granada, its eternal rival. The dispute continued until Managua was declared the only and permanent capital of the country. Seamless check in at your hotel in león and prepare for your adventure the next day.
Day 08: Cerro Negro Volcano Sandboarding
The Cerro Negro volcano is a young and unique volcano. It is also a unique tourism scenario providing a stunning natural setting, the opportunity to hike an active cone and see its crater.
The steep slopes of this black volcano lack any vegetation. On and around the volcano lies a big layer of volcanic ash and rocks. An eruption in 1999 has left a wide border of black, volcanic material around the Cerro Negro and there are two smaller craters right next to the volcano which were recently formed.
Climbing the Cerro Negro is not like any other volcano in Nicaragua. The volcano is only about 500 meters high (726 meters above sea level), but the ascent is steep and tough. There is no paved trail; just a merely natural path along a rim that leads to the top. The ascent takes about one hour to the top, and although it requires some effort the superb views are certainly rewarding. The absence of trees provides fantastic scenery, and upon reaching the top visitors have a 360 degree view of the area.
One of the volcano’s slopes is too steep to climb – but consequently great for a fast descent! Instead of large rocks this side only has volcanic sand, providing a great surface for running downhill. This thrilling experience takes less than ten minutes before reaching the bottom, but for the less athletic hikers it is also possible to walk more slowly while again enjoying the superb views. Alternatively, experienced snow- or sandboarders can use a wooden board to go downhill, much like snowboarding down a mountain but now on a volcanic slope! In any way, the Cerro Negro provides a unique and intense experience that can be enjoyed by anybody in a fair shape.
Day 09: León City Tour and Flor de Cana Tour
Explore the fascinating history of one of Nicaragua’s oldest and most influential cities by foot. It is considered to be Nicaragua’s historical, cultural, educational and religious capital. León was dismantled, moved, and rebuilt due to volcanic activities, ransacked (and reconstructed) by pirates, won and lost its struggle as the most important city in Nicaragua against Managua. During this guided walking tour, you will visit revolutionary murals, baroque and neoclassical churches and an art museum displaying works by internationally renowned artists. Colonial buildings -among them Nicaragua’s first university- will also be explored. In addition, you will climb to the rooftop of Central America’s largest cathedral, registered on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage, and enjoy the astonishing views over the city and surrounding Maribios Volcanic Chain.
Flor de Cana Tour: It consists of a tour of 6 interactive stations where you will learn about the entire production process and history of one of the most awarded rums in the world, accompanied at all times by a guide. It lasts one hour and 30 minutes and includes a tasting of Flor de Caña 18 and a complimentary drink of Flor de Caña 12.
Day 10: Private Transfer Back to MGA Airport
Breakfast at Hotel and private transfer with our driver to the airport for flight home.
Selected hotels guide
Base hotels for this tour are Hotel Café con Leche, Tukasa surf house, Magnific Rock – Surf Resort & Yoga Retreat in Popoyo, Las Salinas. Hotel Patio del Malinche or Colonial in Granada. Hotel el Convento or Hotel Flor de Sarta in León.
- All transfers in private vehicle with A/C and driver.
- All driver expenses.
- Assistance of an English speaking guide ONLY on tour days.
- All guide expenses.
- 3 nights lodging at selected hotel in Las Salinas.
- 3 nights lodging at selected hotel in Granada.
- 3 nights lodging at selected hotel in León.
- All breakfasts.
- Private round trip transportation to beach breaks as described on the itinerary.
- Historical tour of Granada.
- Visit to Catarina Look Out.
- Visit to Masaya Market.
- Visit to Volcán Masaya National Park.
- All museum and park admissions.
- 17% hotel taxes.
Nicaragua Uncovered: A 10-Day Journey Through Culture, Nature, and Adventure tour includes:
Rates & Booking Details
- Custom made Nicaragua vacation packages are available upon request.
- All tours are private and can begin any day of the year.
- Tour costs depend on the number of travelers in your party. Please specify target visit dates and number of people when requesting a quote.
Not included:
- Drinks, lunch or dinner.
- International flights or airport taxes.
- Travel insurance, tips, visas, or medical treatment.
- Gratuity to your private guide and driver.
- Alcohol or soda with meals.
Your travel itinerary is carefully curated to include specific activities as outlined above. Please note that any additional activities not specified in the itinerary will not be covered within the initial package. If you wish to include extra activities beyond the provided list, additional charges will apply. We want to ensure your experience is tailored to your preferences, and any supplementary requests can be accommodated with the appropriate adjustments to the cost.
Day 01: Managua – San Juan del Sur or Surrounding Beaches
Airport greeting by professional driver and private transfer to San Juan del Sur Area Selected Hotel.
Day 02: Beach Day at Playa Majagual
Breakfast and a Private transfer to Majagual Beach which is located next to Maderas, on a private and wide bay with impressive views. The place is known for its rock formation and relaxation spots.
Day 03: Ometepe Island
Breakfast and a Private transfer to San Jorge Port to take the 1 hour Ferry that will transport you across lake Cocibolca. Your private driver will be waiting for you on the island for a private shuttle to your selected hotel.
From Lake Nicaragua, the same lake that the Spanish conquerors called the ‘fresh water sea’ because of its sheer size, rises the island Ometepe. The name Ometepe means ‘two hills’ in the native ‘náhuatl’ language. The island measures 276 square kilometers and it houses two majestic volcanoes connected through a small strip of land.
Ometepe is currently one of the destinations admired by both local and international tourists for its nature, hospitality, beautiful landscapes, the two volcanoes, a rich archeological background, relaxing beaches and its numerous natural reserves and forests that enjoy a high biodiversity.
Day 04: Ometepe Island Full Day Tour
Breakfast.
Kayaking at Istián River:
One of the best places to spot birds on Ometepe is at the Istián River, located right between the island of the Maderas Volcano and the one of the Concepción Volcano. The river is a sanctuary for resident as well as migratory birds, and the area furthermore provides great views and a pristine natural setting.
After entering the river birds can be easily spotted. The bird-list includes egrets, herons, jacanas, stilts, and even predatory birds like hawks, among many other birds. The river itself is not wide and vegetation around the river is abundant. Quietly paddling down the beautiful waterways is definitely relaxing by itself.
On average, a kayak trip from Mérida and back takes about three hours. Be sure to (carefully) bring a camera and/or binoculars. Being on the water for several hours, sunscreen might also prove rather valuable. The lake is furthermore great for swimming, so swimming suits can be worn for a quick dip.
After Lunch, Visit to Ojo de Agua:
Imagine a place where you could relax under the shade of the tropical forest and bathe in volcanic water, sipping coconut water. This amazing place exists in Ometepe and is called the Ojo de Agua! The water from this natural pool, known under the name of Ojo de Agua, comes directly from the Concepción Volcano. Because it is a volcanic water, it is very rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, sulfur and sodium. All those chemical components have properties that help diminish fever, muscular pain, stress, some allergies and some people say that they even help rejuvenate! The pools have a constant temperature of 24-26°C (75-79°F), a depth of minimum 50 cm and maximum 3.50 m. There are strings to swing above the water, a children area and a watchman for higher security.
Museum El Ceibo Visit:
Museum El Ceibo on Ometepe Island is a must see in Nicaragua with one of the biggest and best conserved collections in the country.The museum has two exhibition halls, one with pre-Columbian statues and artifacts and one which shows the history of the Nicaraguan coin. When visiting Ometepe, El Ceibo is the place to get to know and experience the Ometepe culture. El Ceibo is not just a museum, it is fun for all ages!
Punta Jesús María:
Punta Jesús María is the most western point of Ometepe. A narrow strip of sand stretches out into Lake Nicaragua, which can reach as far as 1 kilometer into the lake during dry season. You can walk on this strip of sand, with water splashing in from both the left and the right. During the raining season, however, the water level of the lake rises and this strip of sand can totally disappear. You can also see the mainland on the other side of the lake, including the Mombacho Volcano close to Granada.
In addition to all this, you can also observe another interesting phenomenon during the raining season at Punta Jesús María: the waves come from both the left and the right, and they sort of crash into each other right at the middle of the point. It is similar to what you can see if two seas meet, but then on a small scale.
Day 05: Full Day to Relax on the Santo Domingo Beach or Maderas Volcano Hike* (Optional)
optional tours not included in costs*
Day 06: Granada
Breakfast and private transfer from your hotel in Ometepe to Moyogalpa port dock and On to San Jorge in Rivas. Your private driver will be waiting for you at the San Jorge Port Dock to take you to your selected hotel in Granada.
Nature and history. These are the elements that prevail in Granada, a small yet interesting department of Nicaragua’s Pacific area. An extinct volcano, elongated coasts on Lake Cocibolca (Lake Nicaragua), an archipelago and the oldest city in the country, which still preserves the original historic colonial center, are some of the attractions.
The city of Granada is one of the most important and most visited destinations in Nicaragua. The colonial architecture of its old center, many museums, galleries, hotels, restaurants, bars and a cosmopolitan ambiance make this city a destination itself.
The Mombacho Volcano, which features an exotic cloud forest, is situated in this department.
Day 07: Granada & Masaya Full Day Tour
Private Boat tour around part of The Granada Islets: When the Mombacho Volcano erupted thousands of years ago, it threw huge rocks into Lake Nicaragua. As a result of this violent eruption 365 islets were formed in front of Granada. The islets differ in size between a hundred square meters and over one hundred hectares. The wild nature, resident birds and visitors and the day-a-day routine of the local families make it an ideal place for a boat ride around the lake.
The small islands, in Nicaragua called Las Isletas, serve different purposes. There is a community of about 1200 people living on the islets. Most of the people living here are fishermen. Other islands accommodate hotels or luxurious houses (some of them can be rented). There are also uninhabited islets with only some palm trees growing on it.
At the wharf of Granada there are many boatmen who offer a boat ride to the islets. You can slowly pass by the islands and catch a glimpse of the immensity of Lake Nicaragua. The birdlife around the islands is abundant. You can see cormorants, herons, parrots, hawks, vultures, and many other birds. The lake also houses lots of fish. Sweet water sharks once crowded the lake, but this unique animal is nowadays threatened with extinction and barely ever seen. You can see the huge Mombacho Volcano rise right next to the lake.
Granada City Tour: Imagine a vibrant city steeped in history, a jewel where the whispers of conquistadors mingle with the laughter of families strolling through colorful plazas. This is Granada, Nicaragua, a place waiting to enchant your family adventure.
Founded in 1524, Granada wasn’t just any colonial city – it was the heart of Nicaragua for centuries. Even after Managua became the capital, Granada’s cultural and economic significance remained unmatched. It’s no wonder several Nicaraguan presidents, including the liberal leader José Santos Guardiola, hailed from this historic cradle.
Step back in time at the San Francisco Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begun in 1529, its very stones whisper tales of resilience. It witnessed the infamous William Walker battle in the 1850s, where Nicaraguan forces bravely ousted a filibuster attempting to take control. Today, the beautifully preserved convent houses a captivating museum showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts, a glimpse into the rich indigenous heritage of the land.
But Granada isn’t just about the past. It’s a city that vibrates with life. Picture yourselves strolling along cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored colonial buildings, each one a testament to the city’s architectural legacy. Take a carriage ride through Central Park, its heart dominated by the magnificent neoclassical Cathedral of Granada, a testament to the enduring faith of the people
Catarina Look Out: This iconic viewpoint isn’t just about a single volcanic crater lake. As you stand atop Catarina, a charming town, your gaze will be swept across a majestic panorama.
Imagine a turquoise jewel – Laguna de Apoyo – nestled amidst verdant slopes. This near perfectly round crater, measuring an impressive 6.6 kilometers in diameter, was formed by a powerful volcanic eruption a staggering 23,000 years ago. Its volcanic origins whisper secrets in the cool mountain air, while crystal-clear waters beckon scuba divers to explore hidden depths. Ecolodge resorts perched on the shores offer a luxurious escape amidst nature’s embrace.
Masaya´s Handicraft Market:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Masaya at the city’s renowned Handicraft Market! This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove of Nicaraguan culture, where skilled artisans showcase their talents.
Imagine strolling through aisles overflowing with handcrafted wonders. Picture colorful tapestries, intricate wood carvings, and delicate clay pottery, all waiting to be discovered. Whether you seek a one-of-a-kind souvenir or simply want to marvel at local artistry, Masaya’s Handicraft Market has something to enthrall you.
Beyond the beautiful products, the market itself pulsates with energy. Friendly vendors are eager to share their craft’s story, and the atmosphere is contagious. You might even stumble upon a folkloric performance, adding a touch of local flavor to your experience.
This market isn’t just about shopping; it’s about connecting with Nicaraguan tradition. By supporting these artisans, you’re not just bringing home a souvenir, you’re taking a piece of Nicaraguan culture back with you.
So, don’t miss the chance to lose yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Masaya’s Handicraft Market. It’s an experience that will linger long after you leave Nicaragua.
Masaya´s Volcano:
Right after sunset you’ll visit Volcano Masaya National park. Wildlife is very active, nocturnal animals are waking up. You will experience the sight and sounds of the magma lake inside the crater, a unique experience you will remember forever. Take pictures or videos of yourself at this incredible point, and listen to the guides as they offer some details of Santiago crater and the Masaya Volcano Park.
Day 08:
Breakfast at Hotel and private transfer with our driver to the airport for flight home.
Selected Hotels Guide
Base hotels for this tour are Hotel Alcazar or Hotel La Estación in San Juan del sur; Hotel Villa Paraíso or Xalli Hotel in Ometepe, Hotel Patio del Malinche or Colonial in Granada.
Upgrade hotels for this tour are La Santa María Resort, Hotel La Veranera or Hotel Victoriano in San Juan del Sur, Hotel Plaza Colón in Granada.
Nicaragua Adventure Beach & Culture Tour Includes
All transfers in private vehicle with a/c and driver
All driver expenses
Assistance of an English speaking guide ONLY on tour days
All guide expenses
2 nights lodging at selected hotel in San Juan del Sur
3 nights lodging at selected hotel in Ometepe
2 nights lodging at selected hotel in Granada
All breakfasts
Private Round trip Transportation from your hotel in SJDS to Majagual Beach
Ferry Tickets
Transportation in Ometepe
Walking tour of Granada’s art
Historical tour of Granada
Visit to Catarina Look Out
Visit to Masaya Market
Visit to Volcán Masaya National Park
All museum and park admissions
17% hotel taxes
Rates & Booking Details
Custom made Nicaragua vacation packages are available upon request.
All tours are private and can begin any day of the year.
Tour costs depend on the number of travelers in your party. Please specify target visit dates and number of people when requesting a quote.
Not included:
Maderas Volcano Hike.
Drinks, lunch or dinner.
International flights or airport taxes.
Travel insurance, tips, visas, or medical treatment.
Gratuity to your private guide and driver.
Alcohol or soda with meals
Your travel itinerary is carefully curated to include specific activities as outlined above. Please note that any additional activities not specified in the itinerary will not be covered within the initial package. If you wish to include extra activities beyond the provided list, additional charges will apply. We want to ensure your experience is tailored to your preferences, and any supplementary requests can be accommodated with the appropriate adjustments to the cost.
