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ToursCentral America & the CaribbeanNicaragua

Nicaragua Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

36 Nicaragua trips. Tours from 29 tour companies. 63 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

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Small Ship Cruise
Rose Parade and Panama Canal Cruise
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Rose Parade and Panama Canal Cruise

By YMT Vacations
none
4.2/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Cartagena, Los Angeles, Miami, Santa Barbara

Highlights

  • Enjoy an exclusive private viewing of the Rose Parade floats and the parade from reserved grandstand seats
  • Travel along the Southern California coast through Santa Barbara to Solvang and Pismo Beach
  • Enjoy an included guided tour of Hearst Castle
  • While cruising, visit ports in five countries: Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Colombia
  • Witness the Panama Canal transit in daylight

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Tour is advertised as an "active" tour. However, YMT sold the tours to seniors and others who were unable to walk more than 1/8 mile, unable to navigate stairs or had to walk with the aid of walkers. As a result, 80 percent of the "explorations" were to visitor centers, look out points, stores or washrooms, that were within 100 feet or less of the bus. This tour should be categorized as "relaxed". A big disappointment! The bus driver was friendly and accommodating and drove us safely from one site to another. He sold water to the guests in small bottles for $1 each. I think YMT should be more conscientious of the environment and at least offer bottle refills, especially since the guide practically demanded that each person drink one gallon of water per day. The tour guide was marginally knowledgeable about the area and spent too much time telling us about her private life and friends. She led one hike, but talked mostly about how the rains had changed the landscape. One day she left two guests at the hotel and wanted the people on the bus to take responsibility for not letting her know that people were missing. We were encouraged to find hikes to take on our own, which I felt compromised safety, especially when we had an hour or so to "explore" - there was no safety or backup plan, especially if something untoward happened on a hike. She opted out of taking us to the sunset tour of the Grand Canyon telling us that it was raining and we wouldn't be able to see anything. So a couple of us went to the site on our own and it was possibly one of the best experiences I had on the entire tour (and not a drop of rain!). I often felt bullied into purchasing lunches or meals "offered" by the guide, who made it sound like there were no other options. It was difficult to listen to her brag about how well she was doing and how happy everyone was, when many people were complaining that the tour was not what they expected - mostly because it was too active!!! The accommodations were mostly good - a couple of anomalies (one with a plugged sink and no hot water for a shower, another with a pervasive bad odor). The excursions offered at the time of booking were mostly unavailable later (except for the over-priced meals). Another disappointment because I booked the tour partly because of one of the excursions offered at the time of booking. I would not recommend this tour, because I don't think it is advertised correctly."

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22 days From$4,998
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Central American Journey: Rainforests & Ruins
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Central American Journey: Rainforests & Ruins

By G Adventures
preferred
1.3/5 Terrible
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Antigua, Cancún, Caribbean, Caye Caulker, Copan, Flores, Granada, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, La Fortuna, Lake Nicaragua, Monteverde, Ometepe, Playa del Carmen, Roatan, Salvador, San Ignacio, San José, San Juan, Split, Tikal

Highlights

  • Relax on white-sand beaches
  • Explore the mayan ruins of copán and tikal
  • Bargain at the local markets of colourful colonial antigua
  • Meet some local friends at a local homestay in guatemala
  • Visit seven countries in a month

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

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-29%$3,254
32 days From$2,319
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Central America Explorer
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Central America Explorer

By Intrepid Travel
premier
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Antigua, Arenal Volcano, Caribbean, Caye Caulker, Central America, Chichen Itza, Copan, Granada, La Fortuna, Lake Atitlan, Lake Nicaragua, Leon, Mexico City, Monteverde, Ometepe, Pacific Coast, Palenque, Panajachel, Playa del Carmen, Salvador, San Cristobal, San Ignacio, Tikal, Tikal National Park

Highlights

  • This is one of our most extensive trips in Central America, hitting more than 20 destinations and introducing you to the cities, villages and myriad cultures of seven countries.
  • Your local craft fair just won’t feel the same after you’ve experienced Chichicastenango, a colourful Guatemalan market that draws thousands of vendors from the surrounding mountain villages.
  • Chichen Itza is one the New Seven Wonders of the World – find out why. Strolling around the ancient Maya ruins feels pretty wondrous.
  • A few days on Caye Caulker provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy Belizean island vibes, beachside beers and optional snorkelling, the perfect (almost) halfway point for this epic adventure.
  • Discover the jungle Costa Rica is famous for during a stay in Monteverde, a misty rainforest area home to sloths, hummingbirds, white-faced monkeys and tapirs among hundreds more animal species.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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-29%$7,567
47 days From$5,405

Health Safety +

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Dominican Republic – Heart & Soul of the Caribbean
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Dominican Republic – Heart & Soul of the Caribbean

By Discover Corps
preferred
4.9/5 Excellent
87 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

San Juan Islands, Santiago

Highlights

  • Live surrounded by idyllic beaches, upbeat Caribbean music, and friendly local communities
  • Explore the tropical countryside by hiking to rural villages, snorkeling over the clear Caribbean Sea
  • Uncovering pristine beaches set amongst lush mountain landscapes
  • Visit an ecological park where you can explore cool swimming holes and even zip-line through the rainforest

Themes

Cultural, Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"I recently returned from the Costa Rican wildlife safari. I was a bit concerned with Covid however every place was extremely clean and had places for you to wash your hands before you even walked in. This was a trip I was actually supposed to go on in 2020 however it was postponed, waiting so long the expectations were high. I was definitely not disappointed! Patricia our guide was absolutely wonderful, extremely knowledgeable and cater to our every need. I would highly recommend this vacation. Also everyone that I met in the community was extremely gracious and kind. The majority of these people work on tourism and unfortunately in the last year have not had any. Booking this trip would not only be an amazing adventure for you but it would also be amazing for the people in the community"

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-50%$5,190
8 days From$2,595
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Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal
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Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

By Explore!
premier
4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star

Visits

Caribbean, Central America, Granada, La Fortuna, Lake Nicaragua, Managua, Ometepe, Pacific Ocean, Panama Canal, Panama City, Santiago, Santo Domingo

Highlights

  • Embark on an epic two week cycling adventure through Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama
  • Ride passed active volcanoes, through cloud forests and around national parks
  • Relax on the Caribbean Bocas island

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking

What travelers are saying

"The trip itinerary was well thought through with the right balance of challenging walks, rest time, cultural activities and time to socialise. Joao, our guide, was exceptional. He really took on board any feedback and made sure we had the best time. The scenery in Madeira surpassed my expectations. I would recommend this trip to anyone wanting an active weeks’ holiday."

Trip dates & details
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-19%$5,289
14 days From$4,300

Health Safety +

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Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama
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Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

By Exodus Travels
premier
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star

Visits

Caribbean, Granada, La Fortuna

Highlights

  • Cycle through three different countries in two weeks
  • Relax on Pacific beaches and the idyllic Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro
  • Discover the dramatic Ometepe Island, with its twin volcanic peaks
  • Ride along the Panama Canal, see the Miraflores Locks in action
  • Look for wildlife in the national parks of Costa Rica

Themes

Cycling & Biking

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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-28%$8,505
15 days From$6,135

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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Central American Adventure
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Central American Adventure

By Intrepid Travel
premier
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Antigua, Arenal Volcano, Caribbean, Caye Caulker, Central America, Copan, Granada, La Fortuna, Lake Atitlan, Lake Nicaragua, Leon, Monteverde, Ometepe, Pacific Coast, Panajachel, Salvador, San Ignacio, Tikal, Tikal National Park

Highlights

  • Get to know contemporary Maya life during a homestay in San Juan La Laguna, a lakeside village where you can share meals and conversation with a local family.
  • Caribbean Caye Caulker is a dreamy place to spend two days with no plans. Munch barbecue lobster? Snorkel in coral reef? Nap under a palm tree? It’s up to you.
  • Cruise up the Rio Dulce to your waterfront jungle lodge, then maybe grab a beer and relax while the sounds of nature fill the air.
  • Quaint Suchitoto is a contemporary arts hub with a colonial facade. Explore the flower-studded balconies, galleries housed in 19th-century buildings and a lake teeming with thousands of local birds.
  • Hike, cycle or zip-line through the steamy cloud forests of Monteverde – there’s so many ways to experience the lush canopies and unique Central American wildlife.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-22%$4,175
33 days From$3,267

Health Safety +

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Volcano Trail: Waves & Local Ways
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Volcano Trail: Waves & Local Ways

By G Adventures
preferred
1/5 Terrible
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Antigua, Caribbean, Copan, Granada, La Fortuna, Lake Nicaragua, Monteverde, Ometepe, Salvador, San José, Split

Highlights

  • Connect with your hosts at community guesthouse stay in ometepe
  • Relax seaside in el salvador
  • Laugh with the locals during a chicken bus journey
  • Visit five countries in 17 days

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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-31%$1,626
17 days From$1,119
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Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes
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Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

By Explore!
premier
4.2/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Central America, Granada, Lake Nicaragua, Managua, Ometepe, Pacific Coast, San Francisco, San Juan

Highlights

  • Get a taste of Nicaragua's volcanoes, lakes, wildlife and cobbled colonial cities
  • Search for wildlife in the Selva Negra cloud forest
  • Relax lakeside on Laguna De Apoyo and Explore the colonial streets of Leon

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"The trip itinerary was well thought through with the right balance of challenging walks, rest time, cultural activities and time to socialise. Joao, our guide, was exceptional. He really took on board any feedback and made sure we had the best time. The scenery in Madeira surpassed my expectations. I would recommend this trip to anyone wanting an active weeks’ holiday."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-19%$2,952
13 days From$2,400

Health Safety +

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1 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
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Small Ship Cruise

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Nicaragua Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
63  Reviews
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Excellent
109
Great
20
Average
5
Disappointing
2
Terrible
1
B

Beth

Mar 2020

Written on

Abandoned customers & staff in unsafe situations; cancelled and refused to refund

G Adventures are not responsible for the Covid-19 pandemic. But there are responsible for their reaction to it. Here's what they decided to do: (1) Waited until one ...

Tour:  Central American Journey: Rainforests & Ruins

M

Moira

Feb 2024

Written on

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

This is the trip that just keeps on giving, every day varied an...

Tour:  Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

M

Martin

Feb 2024

Written on

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

Costa Rica flora and fauna and Panama Canal. Knowledgeable and compassionate tour leader.

Tour:  Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

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Nicaragua Tour Selection Trips

  • November through April is peak season and April through through November is off-peak. However, note that the country gets extremely dry and brown (and hot) from February to April. 
  • Consider visiting during the rainy season starting from May for beautiful green scenery; just avoid September and October when the rains are heavy and can last all day.
  • Spanish is the national language and English is not widely spoken. A phrasebook may come in handy. 
  • Plan for at least 10 days in the country. There are a number of areas to visit for a complete and varied trip. That being said, many top surfers spend weeks and never leave the beach.

Additional details

Top Nicaragua Travel Companies
Intrepid Travel Reviews
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