Tranquil Nicaragua

The Trip

Day 1

Arrive in Nicaragua and transfer to colonial 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 2

Take a tour of the city of Granada, on foot and by a traditional horse-drawn carriage. Granada is the second oldest city in mainland Latin America founded by the Spanish in 1524. Granada’s centre today has brightly-coloured Spanish-colonial architecture. San Francisco church and Convent, were built in 1529. There is a wide array of popular restaurants and bars to meet the locals. In the afternoon take a boat tour of nearby Las Isletas, on Lake Nicaragua. During the tour, your guide will point out interesting flora and fauna. The islands once home to native fishing communities, today are being converted to luxury holiday retreats. Stay in a bungalow in a luxury eco-resort on a private island.

Day 3

A day at leisure to enjoy the island and the facilities of the resort. While at the lodge you can choose to relax, and indulge in the jungle­like surroundings, or do a yoga class or have a massage in an open­air treatment room. The food is amazing and so are the views.

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, one of the world´s largest fresh water lakes. Once at Finca San Juan de la Isla, take a swim in the lake, a walk in the forest or relax in a hammock. Ometepe has served as home to indigenous tribes and cultures for many centuries. The two volcanoes on the island, Concepción and Maderas, offer stunning views. Both volcanoes have their own climate and unique vegetation and hiking either of them is a great way to enjoy the surroundings.

Day 5

Today visit some of Ometepe´s highlights on a guided island tour. Walk to a reserve with monkeys, iguanas and many colourful birds including parrots. Then visit Finca Magdalena community farm, near some ancient rock carvings and stop at Ojo de Agua natural pool where you can swim.

Day 6

Take the ferry back to San Jorge and head for Tola, at the west coast, where you stay in a luxury resort in the hills overlooking the Pacific. The Tola region, commonly referred to as the ´Nicaraguan Riviera´, is an idyllic getaway with a dramatic coastline. The secluded beaches of Tola have kept tranquil unlike other Nicaraguan beach towns. Each beach has its own unique characteristics; some have sparkling white sand with steep rocky outcrops while others are situated in hidden bays. Optional activities include horse-riding, hiking, fishing, surfing, or just hanging out. The Tola area is a perfect destination for those who wish to unwind and relax on a pristine beach. There are very few areas left in the world with such natural beauty and little development.

Day 7

Day at leisure in Tola. You can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, go hiking, enjoy optional water sports such as surfing, kayaking, stand­up paddling or snorkelling, or join a boat cruise or fishing trip, to name just a few options. You can also join a yoga class, or enjoy a spa treatment.

Day 8

Day at leisure in Tola.

Day 9

Transfer to your 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 to take home.

Day 10

Transfer to Managua international airport for your homeward flight.