Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

13 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
The 'Land of Lakes and Volcanoes' certainly lives up to its name - during this highlights trip, take a boat trip across magnificent Lake Nicaragua to the laid-back volcanic island of Ometepe, discover the birdlife of the lush Selva Negra cloud forest, and explore Leon and Granada, two colonial towns that are bursting with revolutionary history. Masaya Volc...
19%
$2,952
From$2,400
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

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

What's this trip about?

    The 'Land of Lakes and Volcanoes' certainly lives up to its name - during this highlights trip, take a boat trip across magnificent Lake Nicaragua to the laid-back volcanic island of Ometepe, discover the birdlife of the lush Selva Negra cloud forest, and explore Leon and Granada, two colonial towns that are bursting with revolutionary history. Masaya Volcano - Watch the lava glow in the depths of this impressive active volcano Selva Negra - Go wildlife spotting in the cloud forest and visit a local coffee plantation Colonial Architecture - Explore the impressive historic cities of Granada and Leon

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityGranada
End CityManagua

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Hiking & Walking

Destinations

  • North America
  • United States
  • Central America
  • Nicaragua
  • Europe
  • Spain

Attractions

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

Activities

  • Hiking

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Join trip in Granada

Arrive in Granada. A city steeped in history, Granada is characterised by bright-coloured Spanish-colonial architecture. The ambiance is very pleasant and there is a wide array of restaurants and bars, especially along the boulevard from the central park to the shores...

Day 2 Experience rural Granada with a community visit, including a local lunch and chocolate demonstration

This morning we discover what life is like in rural Granada. We will travel by private bus to a community called Nicaragua Libre where, on arrival, we will have a walk around the community and meet the people that live here. We will then embark on a chocolate workshop...

Day 3 Discover Granada; optional boat trip on Lake Nicaragua

This morning we will head out on a walking tour of the city. Our first stop will be the San Francisco Church and neighbouring San Francisco Convent built in 1529 (entry optional). We then continue onto the beautiful Merced Church where we will have the opportunity to ...

Day 4 Travel to Ometepe Island

Today we transfer to the port of San Jorge, on the shores of Lake Nicaragua and take the ferry to Isla de Ometepe. The island of Ometepe is situated in one of the world's largest freshwater lakes, Lake Nicaragua. The two volcanoes on the island, Concepcion and Maderas...

Day 5 Free day on Ometepe Island; optional island tour or volcano hike

Today you are at your leisure to make the most of this laidback island. There is plenty to do here, and we have a range of options from a hike to a viewpoint on Maderas Volcano, to a classic tour of the whole island with a stop for a traditional lunch. For those who w...

Day 6 Travel to Leon; afternoon city tour

This morning we wave goodbye to Ometepe and head back to the mainland. We will arrive to Leon after lunch and have an orientation tour to discover the rich cultural and political history of one of Nicaragua's oldest and most influential cities. Defined by its graceful...

Day 7 Free time to explore Leon or optional Cerro Negro hike

Today is free to explore Leon at your own pace, taking in one of the museums or relaxing at one of the cafe's near the main square. Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy one of the optional excursions available in the area. One option is a hike on the nearby Cerro Ne...

Day 8 Boat trip on Juan Venado Nature Reserve

An early start today to Juan Venado Nature Reserve where we will embark on an included wildlife spotting boat tour. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, caiman, iguanas and many species of bird. We will then head to Las Peñitas Beach, a popular spot for local Nicarag...

Day 9 Visit San Jacinto en route to Selva Negra Ecolodge; included coffee and farm tour

After breakfast we head to the Highlands of Northern Nicaragua, Selva Negra. On route we will visit the mud fields of San Jacinto. San Jacinto is a little town about 20 kilometres northeast of Leon; behind the village is boiling mud holes connected to the Telica Volca...

Day 10 Search for wildlife in the Selva Negra cloud forest

Today we enjoy a two-hour cloud forest nature walk in Selva Negra. During the walk we will learn about the importance of the rainforest and discover the flora and fauna. If you wish to continue hiking in the afternoon the Leader will take you out on an additional hike...

Day 11 Marvel at the glow of Masaya volcano; travel to Laguna De Apoyo

This morning we will head to Laguna De Apoyo, a nature reserve located between Masaya and Granada. The lake is the largest volcanic crater lake in the country and was formed over 23,000 years ago after a huge volcanic explosion. On route to the lake, we will visit Mas...

Day 12 Spend the day on the shores of Laguna De Apoyo

Today we will head to the shores of Laguna de Apoyo with our included day pass at Casa Marimba. Casa Marimba is a stunning property located right on the shores of the lake. You can relax on the beach, swim or even take out a kayak and explore the waters. This evening we will have a farewell dinner and watch our final sunset in this spectacular country.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 13 Trip ends at Managua airport

There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time. If you would like to receive an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Augusto C. Sandino Airport (MGA), which is approximately a one-hour drive from our hotel.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $2,400
Price per day$185
Last Updated: 4/26/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
28 Jul 2024
09 Aug 2024
$2,400
$810
15 spots left
06 Oct 2024
18 Oct 2024
$2,470
$810
13 spots left
10 Nov 2024
22 Nov 2024
$2,680
$800
12 spots left
19 Jan 2025
31 Jan 2025
$2,680
$840
13 spots left
23 Feb 2025
07 Mar 2025
$2,680
$840
16 spots left
23 Mar 2025
04 Apr 2025
$2,680
$840
15 spots left
18 May 2025
30 May 2025
$2,680
$840
16 spots left
27 Jul 2025
08 Aug 2025
$2,680
$840
16 spots left
05 Oct 2025
17 Oct 2025
$2,680
$840
16 spots left
09 Nov 2025
21 Nov 2025
$2,680
$840
16 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
6,513
Great
2,167
Average
377
Disappointing
116
Terrible
53
D

Deirdre

Apr 2024

Written on

Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Our guide was excellent. Accommodation varied and generally a good standard. We got a good insight into the country, history, culture, geography, economy. The rig...

D

David

Mar 2024

Written on

Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Good itinerary, quite compact, minimising travel but getting to see ...

R

Rupali

Dec 2023

Written on

Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Highlights were masaya volcano, boarding down cerro...

E

Esther

Nov 2023

Written on

Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Getting the chance to see turtles coming ashore to lay eggs and seeing baby turtles being released to the sea. Seeing monkeys and sloths as well as visiting a live v...

D

Daniel

Nov 2023

Written on

Nicaragua - Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Very well organised tour of an interesting country. Seeing so much wildlife was a pleasant surprise. Seeing lava from a volcano was amazing. The guide Roberto was ve...

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Tour Operator

Explore!

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

Bus, Ferry,

Transportation & flights

Bus, Ferry
Guides
Explore Tour Leader, Boat Crew, Driver(s), Local Guide(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Nicaragua: Visas are not required for UK, New Zealand, Australian, US and Canadian citizens. There is an entry charge of 10USD Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate. USA: If your flights pass through the USA, even if only in transit, you will require either a visa or an ESTA (an e-visa). Please read on for more information. Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can apply for an ESTA under certain conditions. This applies if you enter the country by sea or by air, and this must be done online via https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding. You must have a biometric passport to apply for an ESTA. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover. If you have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen since 2011 or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel with an ESTA and instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel. You should also be aware that if you have travelled to or have been in Cuba since the 12th of January 2021, you will not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver and will need to apply for a US visa. You should consult the US State Department website to determine which you will need. Your ESTA application will ask for Point of Contact information. Please note that if you're only transiting through the USA then this is not required. If you're visiting or staying in the USA on an Explore trip, then our USA contact information will be listed on your final documentation which you will receive approximately 3-4 weeks before departure. Entry requirements for the USA can change regularly, therefore, please ensure you have the most up to date information before you travel by checking the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against typhoid, infectious hepatitis and polio. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please note many countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean require a yellow fever vaccination certificates if travelling from infected areas. A detailed list of these countries can be found on the NaTHNaC website - http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries. Also on the NaTHNaC site there is a list of Countries (and specific areas within a country) which are at risk of infection and a vaccination is therefore recommended. All travellers coming to Nicaragua from the following countries (even if only in transit) must present an international certificate of vaccination: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guyana, Panamá, Paraguay and Venezuela. From the African Continent, all countries are included except Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Sao Tomé and Príncipe and Somalia. This list is regularly updated please check NaTHNaC for the most up to date list. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 12
  • Lunch : 1
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-NIC

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