This 8-day Nicaragua vacation is perfect for the traveler who wants to explore Nicaragua while remaining active at the same time! Begin in Leon, a cultural hub of colonial history. Climb the black sands of Cerro Negro, then travel to Ometepe Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with volcanic peaks and ancient petroglyphs. Hike to San Ramon Waterfall or trek Maderas Volcano for panoramic views. Visit Masaya Volcano National Park before heading to Granada, Nicaragua’s colonial jewel. Discover Granada's historic landmarks and kayak through Lake Nicaragua’s serene islets. End your adventure with breathtaking views and exhilarating activities in the lush cloud forest.
Highlights
Tour the oldest colonial city in Central America, Granada City
Climb Cerro Negro Volcano, enjoying its rugged black sands
Zip line 1500 meters along the base of Mombacho
Kayak Lake Nicaragua islets, spotting native wildlife
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
Arrive at Managua Airport, where a Careli Tours representative meets you for your transfer to León, Nicaragua’s former colonial capital and cultural hub. Originally founded near the Momotombo volcano, León was relocated 90 km north after an earthquake and eruption in 1609. Spend the rest of the day exploring León’s vibrant streets, historic sites, and artistic landmarks at your own pace.
Climb Cerro Negro, a young active volcano standing 726 meters tall, entirely covered in black sand and rock. Enjoy an exhilarating experience as you ascend to the summit, where sweeping views of the volcanic chain and lush landscapes await. Choose to hike or sandboard down the loose, volcanic slope for a thrilling descent through the rugged terrain and enjoy the striking contrast of black sand against the green scenery.
Start your day early in Leon with a 3.5-hour drive to San Jorge Port. From there, embark on a one-hour ferry ride across Lake Nicaragua to reach Isla Ometepe, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The ferry journey can be a bit choppy, but it offers stunning views and a memorable experience. Ometepe is formed by two volcanic peaks in Central America’s largest lake. This island holds significance to the Nahuatl people, with ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites throughout its fertile landscapes. Access is by ferry from San Jorge Port. Discover Ometepe’s landscapes by bike on a guided tour. The island, named from the Nahuatl word "Ome Tepelth," meaning "two hills," is home to ancient petroglyphs and around 35,000 people. Ride along the paved road between Moyogalpa and Altagracia, passing local villages, banana plantations, and lush roadside vegetation. Expect to encounter local cyclists and enjoy open, scenic views.
Option 1: Half-Day San Ramon Waterfall Hike (3–4 hours)
Start your hike at San Ramon Biological Station, located on the slopes of the volcano, 600 meters above sea level. Set out on a scenic trail leading to El Salto San Ramon, an impressive 145-meter waterfall, about 3 hours away. Take time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. After your hike, refresh in natural spring waters, where you can enjoy a soothing swim, letting the cascading water provide a natural massage.
Option 2: Full-Day Maderas Volcano Hike Adventure (7–8 hours)
Begin early at Magdalena Farm, setting off toward the lake at the top of Maderas Volcano. Along the path, encounter monkeys, colorful birds, bats, and local plants like coffee and chocolate. The trail, an 8-hour round trip through mud and volcanic rock, is both challenging and rewarding. Take in the sweeping views and embrace the island's natural beauty as you hike up and down this unforgettable route.
On your way to Granada, explore the Masaya Volcano National Park, Nicaragua’s first national park, established in 1979. This stop begins at the Environmental Interpretation Center, where your guide shares the history of the volcano and its significance to local indigenous communities. Although access to the Santiago Crater viewpoint is restricted, you'll walk along the "Comalito" trail, which takes you through lush forests with active fumaroles and unique flora and fauna. The trail ends at a scenic lookout with panoramic views of Mombacho Volcano, Granada City, and the stunning Masaya Lagoon—a volcanic lake once revered by indigenous peoples.
After exploring the national park, you'll head to Granada, Nicaragua’s most visited city, founded in 1524. This charming colonial city captivates visitors with its neoclassical architecture, colorful cobblestone streets, and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 6: Granada City Tour & Kayaking on Lake Nicaragua
Begin your day exploring Granada City on a guided walking tour. Discover landmarks like the "La Merced" church, the strikingly vibrant cathedral, and the historic San Francisco Convent, which houses a remarkable collection of pre-Columbian sculptures featuring human and animal forms.
After the city tour, head to Lake Nicaragua for a kayaking adventure through some of the lake’s 365 small islands. Paddle through calm waters for two hours with your bilingual guide, admiring views of the majestic Mombacho Volcano. Along the way, keep an eye out for native bird species and diverse wildlife that thrive around the lake.
Start your day with a pickup from your hotel lobby, followed by a drive to the base of the mountain. At the foot of the mountain, meet the park rangers before switching to a four-wheel drive vehicle for the ascent. Begin your guided walking tour from the base to the Hacienda, immersing yourself in the stunning biodiversity of this natural reserve.
The adventure kicks off on a paved road surrounded by lush vegetation and panoramic views. As you ascend, the rich ecosystem of the cloud forest unfolds, offering a unique perspective on this vibrant environment. Upon reaching the summit, learn from the park ranger about the region’s flora, fauna, cultural history, and volcanic activity during a 3-hour, 4-km trail exploration. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific plains from a spectacular viewpoint.
After the hike, gear up for an exhilarating canopy tour. Qualified staff fit your equipment and provide detailed safety instructions. This adventure takes you through the treetops, sliding on cables between platforms atop massive trees. Admire breathtaking views of the surrounding forest as you glide between platforms, fully immersed in nature.
Enjoy a typical lunch at Casa Hacienda between activities. Your guide will arrange your return to the foot of the mountain for the transfer back to your hotel.
Day 8: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is $400, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Adventure Life seems to be an honest company and has been quite helpful in the planning process. Good about answering questions.
Chris Dralle
1 week ago
Wonderful personal attention to detail and very helpful suggestions by experienced travel experts
John K
1 week ago
Franny has been such an amazing help with all my trip planning. This is our 3rd trip to plan with her and she is always so willing to assist and find the best deals for my family and friends.
Suzanne Turbyfill
1 week ago
Our advisor at Adventure Life, Mary Curry, was knowledgable and quick to respond with answers to any questions we had. She made our booking efficiently and set up a time for us to make a secure payment through her directly. We’ve used Adventure Life repeatedly and would definitely recommend it.