Embark on a 7-day adventure through Granada, the oldest city in Central America. Begin with a scenic boat ride to Jicaro Lodge, where you'll dive into the city’s colonial history with visits to La Merced Church, the Cathedral, and the San Francisco Convent. Discover local cigar-making traditions and sample unique chocolates made from cacao grown on Mombacho Volcano’s slopes. Explore the natural beauty of Mombacho Volcano with a hike through its lush cloud forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, retreat to Morgan’s Rock, a tranquil eco-lodge surrounded by nature, for a restful stay. Enjoy free time to relax or take part in various activities, such as surfing, zip-lining, or hiking, in San Juan. This tour offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure, providing unforgettable experiences in Nicaragua’s most scenic destinations.
Highlights
Tour the city of Granada, the oldest colonial city in Central America
Taste award-winning chocolate made with volcanic-grown cacao
See Doña Elba Cigars Granada where cigars are made with care
Stay in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua's surfing mecca
Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.
Arrive in Managua where you are met and transferred an hour to Granada's marina for a scenic boat ride to Jicaro Lodge. The oldest city in all of Central America, Granada was first founded in 1524. Its cobblestone streets and old convents and buildings tell a story about the Spanish, pirates, and a vast history of war and peace. Settle into your hotel near the main plaza.
This morning, set out to explore Granada’s colonial charm on a guided walking tour. Begin at La Merced Church, known for its historic architecture and panoramic views. Continue to the brightly colored Cathedral and the San Francisco Convent, where you’ll discover an impressive collection of pre-Columbian sculptures depicting human and animal forms.
Next, visit Doña Elba Cigars, a family-run factory producing premium cigars since 1996. Watch a demonstration of the cigar-making process and, if you’re up for it, try rolling your own cigar under the guidance of a master blender. Wrap up the tour with a stop at an award-winning artisan chocolate maker. Sample a variety of handcrafted chocolates made with cacao cultivated on Mombacho Volcano’s slopes and savor the unique flavors created by a passionate team of local chocolatiers.
Return to Jicaro Lodge to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities and activities.
Enjoy a free day at Jicaro Lodge. Relax and make the most of the lodge’s amenities. Spend your time lounging by the eco-friendly pool, indulge in a massage at the wellness center, or practice yoga on the deck with a stunning view of Lake Nicaragua. Click here for the activity list to explore more ways to enhance your day.
Day 4: Mombacho Volcano | Transfer to Morgans Rock
Start your day with a hotel pickup and head to the base of Mombacho Volcano. Park rangers greet you as you switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle for a scenic climb to the summit. The journey showcases dense vegetation, diverse wildlife, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
At the top, the park ranger gives you clear instructions before you begin the Crater Trail hike. This moderate 1 hour and 45-minute trek winds through dense cloud forest. Discover the region's unique plants, animals, volcanic features, and the history of its ancient inhabitants. On clear days, take in breathtaking views of the Pacific plains, Granada, and Lake Nicaragua with its islands. Finish the hike at the old farmhouse and enjoy a fresh cup of local coffee. After a short rest, return down the volcano in the 4x4 vehicle.
Conclude your day with a transfer to Morgan’s Rock, where you’ll settle in for a three-night stay surrounded by the serenity of nature.
Today you can explore on your own. You can arrange to try your hand at surfing or boogie boarding, do a zip line tour, arrange to go diving, fishing, sailing, rent mountain bikes, go for a hike, or even go on a nightly turtle-watching tour if you are there between July and December. The hotel can assist in arranging many local activities for you.
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
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
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
2 weeks 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.