Nicaragua Highlights

The Trip

Day 1

Arrive in Nicaragua and transfer to hotel in Managua. Managua is the capital of Nicaragua, home to almost two million inhabitants and is easily the largest city in Nicaragua. The city has a lot to offer its visitors: theatres, restaurants, night clubs, bars, and cinemas to name a few. At Roberto Huembes street market, browse local fruit, food, handicrafts or buy a hammock.

Day 2

Transfer to León, one of Nicaragua’s oldest and most influential cities. León is Nicaragua’s historical, cultural and religious capital. Take a walking tour to revolutionary murals, baroque and neoclassical churches and an art museum. In addition, climb to the rooftop of Central America´s largest cathedral and enjoy views of Maribios Volcanic Chain. The city has a quiet, relaxed and pleasant atmosphere that comes to life at night. In the evenings, enjoy live music, folklore performances and much more.

Day 3

Visit Cerro Negro Volcano. This volcano is the youngest in Central America and one of the most active. This arid black volcano has become the latest site for adventure seekers. After hiking up the slope it’s possible to slide down on top a board at great speed. This optional sand-boarding is for those seeking a high adrenaline experience. Protective clothing is available, but don’t take your best trainers. The most difficult part is climbing the volcano in the heat. Once on top, the descent takes only few minutes whether on a board or walking down. Alternative excursions available like a day trip to the Pacific Ocean.

Day 4

Head south to the port of San Jorge where you get on the ferry to Isla de Ometepe, a beautiful island in Lake Nicaragua. Once at Ometepe, check-in to Charco Verde, an ecolodge on a beach in a nature reserve, take a swim in the lake, a walk in the forest or relax in a hammock. The more ambitious can choose to hike up the Mirador del Diablo or take a walk around the lagoon where mangrove trees and other tropical vegetation can be observed. Keep an eye out for native birds or families of howler monkeys that inhabit the area. Kayaks are also available and provide a fun and interesting way to spend the day.

Day 5

Today visit some of Ometepe´s highlights on an island tour. Walk to the Peña Inculta reserve where groups of white­faced and howler monkeys live. Other species to be found here are agoutis, squirrels, iguanas and tropical birds such as trogons, wrens and parrots. Then visit an organic coffee farm, pass by some ancient rock carvings and stop at a natural pool where you can swim.

Day 6

Transfer by ferry and road to the colonial city of Granada. Granada was founded in 1524 and is believed to be the second oldest city established in mainland Latin America by the Spanish conquest. During colonial times, Granada saw much unrest as the city was attacked several times by pirates. Rest of day free to wander around the city or down to the shores of Lake Nicaragua.

Day 7

Take a guided tour of Granada’s historic centre on foot and by traditional horse­drawn carriage. Explore interesting sites including the San Francisco church and adjacent San Francisco Convent, built in 1529. 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.

Day 8

Transfer to Managua airport for your homebound flight

Day 9

Arrive UK