Managua - Granada - Ometepe Island - Leon – Matagalpa

Itinerary:

Day 1: Depart the USA. Upon arrival in Managua, guided hotel transfer.   

Day 2: Managua
Today your city tour will include a visit to Loma de Tiscapa, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and city. This national historical park was built upon the remains of the Presidential Palace. Afterwards we will take you on a city tour including the Area Monumental and the Plaza de Republica; here you can visit the Teatro Nacional, Museo Nacional, and both the old and the new cathedrals as well as other governmental buildings. Then you will be transferred to your hotel for some free time to rest.  B
Option: Zip Line over Tiscapa Crater Lagoon.

Day 3: Granada
Today you will be taken to the Spanish Colonial city of Granada; guided hotel transfer. You will have a guided city tour which includes a visit to various colonial buildings and churches in the Baroque and Renaissance Style. Next take a tour of  The Granada Isles  or "Las Isletas ". There are approx. 354 isles. Afterwards you can shop at the city market for fresh produce and various goods.  B

Day 4: Granada
Today you will visit the Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve. This cloud forest volcano is truly a Green Island in the middle of a sea of deforested lands. The richness of the flora and fauna is a reflection of the variety of environments that appear at different heights, from the coast of the Lake Cocibolca “The Great Lake" until you reach the summit, 1344m high. B

Day 5: Granada
The day begins with a visit to the Masaya Volcano National Park. The Park features the active Volcano Masaya with its two craters Santiago and San Fernando. Masaya is a town where folklore lives in its entire splendor. Traditional handicrafts are sold at open markets. The handicraft National Market is a must to be visited. B

Day 6: Island of Ometepe
Depart Granada to San Jorge port for your ferry to the Island of Ometepe. Upon arrival you will be given a guided walking tour along the shores of the island. Your guide will discuss the people and culture of Ometepe.  The guides are extremely knowledgeable regarding the flora and fauna of the area.  B

Day 7: Island of Ometepe
The day will start early with a hike up the Maderas Volcano.  The crater of this inactive volcano is actually a pristine lagoon where you will have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip after a somewhat challenging climb. During your climb you will see some beautiful waterfalls that    originate in the volcano's crater. You may choose one of two options, the first to make the climb to the crater of the volcano, or second to take a shorter less challenging climb to one of the beautiful waterfalls where you will also have the opportunity to take a swim. The second option is less demanding and will allow you some free time to either visit a fresh water lagoon or possibly go horseback riding. B
Afternoon Option: Horseback riding along the trails and beaches of Ometepe.

Day 8:  Leon
Today you will take a ferry back to San Jorge for your transfer to Leon. You will see many original colonial buildings, including the largest Cathedral in Central America. Stop and make a trip to the Church of La Recolección, El Calvario, La Merced, San Juan, and San Juan Bautista de Subtiava. Visit the Ruben Dario Museum, and in Ciudad Dario, step into the house of a great poet, The Father of Modern Spanish Literature. B

Day 9: Leon
Today you will take a guided tour of Cerro Negro; this small volcano is located just outside León and hidden in the mighty Maribios Volcano Range. This is one of the newest volcanoes in the hemisphere. You will enjoy an interesting hike on and around the mountain due to the black sand forest’s flowering trees, numerous lizards and striking visual contrasts between forest flora and soil. B

Day 10: Matagalpa
Early this morning you will head to Matagalpa, this quaint town has a Bavarian heritage.  Northern Nicaragua is an area abundant with birds and tropical forests and coffee plantations. Upon arrival you will have coffee plantation. Afterwards you will have time to enjoy the area on your own, there are many great trails for self-guided walks. B

Day 11:  Return to USA

END OF TOUR SERVICES