Ultimate Nicaragua Vacation | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Ultimate Nicaragua Vacation

PRIVATE TOUR - 10 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 2508

Private Tour Highlights

  • Absorbing some of the most pristine wilderness and unforgettable landscapes of Nicaragua during a visit to Ometepe Island
  • Tucking into tasty local cuisine and soaking in the sun on tropical Santo Domingo beach
  • Touring the colonial gem of Granada, one of the oldest cities in the Americas
  • Reveling in the splendor of San Francisco Church, known for its abundance of elegant artworks
  • Hiking the lofty heights of the Masaya Volcano, one of the most scenic craters in Nicaragua
  • Taking in the ruins of the first capital of Nicaragua in Old Leon
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Take the ultimate Nicaragua vacation, combining wilderness and wildlife with architecture and history. Explore Leon, home to the ruins of the first capital of Nicaragua as well as museums, art galleries, colorful colonial architecture, an astounding cathedral and charming churches.

From there travel south to Granada and visit what is considered one of the oldest cities in the Americas. The city still maintains the original historic colonial center which is one of its main attractions. Revel in the splendor of San Francisco Church, known for its abundance of elegant artworks.

Get a taste of the outdoors with a hike to new heights up the Masaya Volcano, one of the most scenic craters in Nicaragua. Continue to Ometepe Island, one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful places and also the world’s highest lake island. Absorb some of the most pristine wilderness and unforgettable landscapes in the country while you are here. After enjoying the beautiful views travel to San Juan del Sur for a couple days of fun and relaxation on the beach or tuck into some tasty local cuisine along Santo Domingo beach. The perfect way to unwind and enjoy your last nights in Nicaragua.

Inclusions
Prices includes hotel accommodation with daily continental breakfast, guided tours in English, meals where specified, entrance fees, transportation between hotels, transfers between airport and hotel, naturalist guides and taxes. Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.
Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 2508

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Managua

Upon arrival in Managua, transfer to the hotel in Managua.

Upon arrival in Managua, transfer to the hotel in Managua.

Day
2

Full-day visit to colonial Leon

At the appropriate time, be met at the hotel and transfer to the hotel in Leon.

Explore the rich cultural and political history of one of Nicaragua's oldest and most influential cities. Defined by its graceful Spanish colonial architecture and fascinating political history, discover why Leon is considered to be Nicaragua's historical, cultural, educational and religious capital. Climb to the rooftop of Central America's largest cathedral, recently added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage, and enjoy the amazing views over the city and surrounding Maribios Volcanic Chain. Visit as well the San Francisco Convent and the beautifully carved Casa de los Leones; the Sutiaba (indigenous neighborhood), the Ruben Dario Museum, Museum of Myths and Legends, and the central square and murals.

Overnight in Leon. ...read less

cathedral-of-Leon-Nicaragua
Day
3

Flor de Cana Factory

Chichigalpa read more...

Chichigalpa town is well known for its factories, one of them is the San Antonio sugar factory and the Flor de Cana Rum factory travelers will visit. At the preferred time a driver will pick up the traveler at the hotel and take them to Chichigalpa. After 20 minutes, arrive at the entrance where the driver will pay for the entrance fees and receive a bracelet and brochure of the tour, then the English speaking guide will welcome the traveler and start the visit. The tour includes visits to the Rum Vault (Slow Aged), Rum Barrel Operational Area, Video Presentation, Introduction and Sample to Rum Tasting by the Rumelier and finally the Flor de Cana Museum Bar & Gift-Shop. This Tour is a must for people who like to see, experience and learn about one of the world's most famous liquors! For those who like to drink, there is the rum-bar to finalize the tour.

In the late afternoon return to the hotel in Leon. ...read less

Leon-Nicaragua
Day
4

Granada- National Park of Masaya Volcano

Morning read more...

Morning transfer to Granada. On the way visit the Masaya Volcano, an active and dormant smoking crater. Visitors can peek over the edge at the Masaya Volcano, and look into the impressive crater, which is continuously emitting smoke and sulfur gases. From this central crater it is possible to start hiking to other craters or viewpoints. Then the driver will take the traveler to the Arts Market where will have the opportunity to admire ceramics, woodcrafts, hammocks and jewelry, cigars, leather work and more! Before arriving at the hotel, enjoy a scenic town of nurseries and flowers panoramic view of Apoyo crater lake. Overnight in Granada. ...read less

Mayasa-volcano-Nicaragua
Day
5

Granada City Tour

Join in exploring and discovering the famous city of Granada, established in 1524 by the Spaniard Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba, the oldest colonial city on mainland America and considered one of the prettiest cities in Latin America. Visit relevant sites and colonial buildings as well as the San Francisco Convent and Church founded in 1524, which preserves some of the most interesting indigenous ceramic and statue collections. Hear stories from real pirates, like the infamous Henry Morgan, and their adventures to civil war stories that burned toashes, sacked and destroyed the city several times. Visit archaeological treasures from Isla Zapatera, a primitive art exhibit and historical display, La Polvora Fort, a warehouse built in 1748 to keep gunpowder. Visit its old towers, which provide a beautiful view of the city. Xalteva Church and walls: Here the Spaniards met the Indigenous Xalteva population, from which it gets its name. This is the most antique part of Granada. The church was built during colonial times and because of its location, it was also used as a military fort. Then take a boat tour to Las Isletas. Las Isletas consist of around 365 small islands where formed 20,000 years ago by a massive volcanic explosion! Today it is a unique place where prominent Nicaraguan have their vacation houses and a local fishing community makes its living. The nature is beautiful with lots of bird life and amazing views of the volcanoes and Lake Nicaragua. These serene and rustic islands we will visit by boat, showing you all its secrets!
Overnight in Granada. ...read less

Granada-Nicaragua
Day
6

Mombacho Volcano Adventure (Canopy and Natural Reserve)

The Mombacho Volcano is one of the most prominent volcanoes in Nicaragua, located only 10 km from Granada. The ride uphill only is an adventure by itself. The incredible steepness of the volcano guarantees a spectacular ride. At the top of Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve lie two dormant craters in dense cloud forest. Well established trails and a biological center make Mombacho an adventure not to be missed! Hike beautiful trails to appreciate the unique landscape of Nicaragua. In the afternoon return to Granada.

The Mombacho Volcano is one of the most prominent volcanoes in Nicaragua, located only 10 km from Granada. The ride uphill only is an adventure by itself. The incredible steepness of the volcano guarantees a spectacular ride. At the top of Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve lie two dormant craters in dense cloud forest. Well established trails and a biological center make Mombacho an adventure not to be missed! Hike beautiful trails to appreciate the unique landscape of Nicaragua. In the afternoon return to Granada.

Day
7

San Jorge- Ometepe- Pacific Beach

From Lake Nicaragua, the same lake that the Spanish conquerors called the fresh water sea because of its sheer size, rises the island Ometepe. The name Ometepe means two hills in the native Nahuatl language. The island measures 276 square kilometers and it houses two majestic volcanoes connected through a small strip of land. Take an unforgettable journey to one of the most beautiful places of Nicaragua. Ometepe Island, the biggest island of the world on a fresh water lake. The excursion starts by heading towards the southern part of the country, getting to San Jorge's port where the traveler will take a ferry that will take them to Ometepe, where they will be able to enjoy spectacular views and one of the most impressive ones of all Nicaragua. Visit places like the, the Green Puddle's Lagoon, Santo Domingo Beach, and Ojo de Agua Water Springs.

At the appropriate time, transfer to the hotel in San Juan del Sur. ...read less

ometepe-Nicaragua
Day
8

San Juan del Sur at Leisure

Day at leisure in San Juan del Sur. One may visit the small fishing town or just relax on the beach.

Day at leisure in San Juan del Sur. One may visit the small fishing town or just relax on the beach.

san-Juan-del-sur-town-Nicaragua
Day
9

Day at leisure

Another fun day at leisure in San Juan del Sur.

Another fun day at leisure in San Juan del Sur.

San-Jaun-del-Sur-Nicaragua
Day
10

Flight Home

Transfer back to Managua City or Managua Airport to take the flight back home, or choose from optional add-ons in Nicaragua, extension to Costa Rica or other Central American countries.

Transfer back to Managua City or Managua Airport to take the flight back home, or choose from optional add-ons in Nicaragua, extension to Costa Rica or other Central American countries.

Managua, Nicaragua

Leon, Nicaragua

Granada, Nicaragua

Ometepe, Rivas, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur, Rivas, Nicaragua

Places You'll See

  • managua-Nicaragua2

    Managua

    The largest city of Nicaragua, and the capital of the country is the city of Managua. Learn about the city’s history from many different museums and cultural centers, then delve into the gastronomies created by the many different nationalities that have settled here including immigrants from the US, China, Germany, and Thailand.

  • Nicaragua-Monkey-Leon

    Leon

    The oldest city in Nicaragua, and the second largest, is Leon. Here, one can marvel at the beautiful architecture and visit Central Americas largest cathedral, Leon Cathedral, and venture to the top for outstanding views of the city. Also visit the original site of the city of Leon that was abandoned in the 1600s due to a massive earthquake.

  • Granada-Nicaragua-church

    Granada

    Granada is one of the oldest colonial towns in Nicaragua, where one can enjoy exploring a cloud forest atop Volcan Mombacho or see the smoke billowing from the active Volcan Masaya. Learn the history and the process of chocolate making at ChocoMuseo, or take a boat tour of the islets surrounding the area. Another top destination for Granada is Alhambra, an ancient Nasrid palace city.

  • volcano-nicaragua-concepcion - Copy

    Ometepe Island

    Rising from the depths of the massive Lake Nicaragua are two majestic volcanos linked together by a flat isthmus, creating the hourglass shaped island of Ometepe. Whether arriving by air or sea, the imposing volcanos will be of central focus as clouds and mist heighten the drama of the impressive peaks. Dive in to crystal clear lagoons, seek out the diverse wildlife of the island, or scale the sides of these impressive active volcanoes.

  • san-juan-del-sur-Nicaragua

    San Juan del Sur

    The beautiful fishing village of San Juan del Sur offers an endless amount of entertainment. Enjoy surfing or fishing the beautiful blue waters or enjoy the legendary sunsets and nightlife with the variety of lovely bars and restaurants along the coast.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Managua : Hotel Camino Real

Managua : Hotel Casa Naranja

Managua : Hotel Los Robles

Leon : Las Mercedes Leon (standard)

Leon : Austria (standard)

Granada : Colonial (standard)

Granada : Hotel La Mar Dulce

Granada : Hotel Con Corazon

Granada : Patio del Malinche (standard)

San Juan del Sur : Hacienda Iguana

San Juan del Sur : El Pacifico

4 Star Properties

Managua : Hilton Princess

Managua : Crowne Plaza (Junior Suite)

Managua : Intecontinental Metrocentro (standard)

Leon : Austria (Junior – Suite)

Leon : Los Balcones

Granada : Hotel Plaza Colon (Superior)

Granada : Casa San Francisco (standard)

Granada : Colonial (Coloniales)

San Juan del Sur : Mango Rosa Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur : Buena Vista Club And Resort

San Juan del Sur : Posada Azul

5 Star Properties

Managua : Crowne Plaza (Executive)

Managua : Holiday Inn (Executive)

Managua : Real Intercontinental Metrocentro (Executive)

Leon : El Convento (standard)

Leon : La Perla

Granada : Hotel Granada (Junior Suite deluxe)

Granada : Hotel Plaza Colon (Superior with Balcony)

Granada : Colonial (Junior Suite)

San Juan del Sur : Hotel Aqua Wellness Resort

San Juan del Sur : Punta Teonoste (Villa Familiar)

San Juan del Sur : Pelican Eyes (standard Room)

Luxury Properties

Managua : Intecontinental Metrocentro (Junior Suite)

Managua : Holiday Inn (Jr. Suite)

Leon : La Perla (Presidential Suite)

Leon : El Convento

Granada : Hotel Plaza Colon (Suite)

Granada : La Gran Francia (Suite El Duque)

Granada : Hotel Dario (Suite)

San Juan del Sur : Pelican Eyes (Ocean View Town House)

San Juan del Sur : Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge

San Juan del Sur : Villas de Palermo (Villa Regular)

Testimonials

Frank

Traveled February, 2010

Thank you very much for organizing a most successful overland trip through central-america.

I returned home safe and sound on Sunday. Thank you very much for organizing a most successful overland trip through central-america. I am thinking seriously about a third overland trip through south-america in the next year or so. Thank you again for arranging a very successful and most enjoyable itinerary. I will contact you again in the next couple of months about similar trips through south-america and the Caribbean.

Peggy S, Canada

Traveled December, 2013

Just wanted to let you know that we have had a fabulous time

Just wanted to let you know that we have had a fabulous time and are very impressed with your choice of hotels and areas. Because of this we would like to book through you a trip to Nicaragua for Dec 26,2013 for one week. All hotels were able to accommodate my dietary needs. We especially loved Lake Attilan and the hotel there. The guides were excellent except for the guide we had in Tikal. His name was Roni and he didn’t consider our needs but had his own agenda. After repeated requests for lunch, he delayed serving us lunch both days until 3PM. The trip to the temples was excellent in spite of him. He went into too much detail and his English was very hard to understand. The first day when arriving in Flores airport, we felt that we could have gone directly to the nature park, instead of driving 45minutes to the hotel,then a 45minute boat ride back to almost where we started to begin the walk. Otherwise the vacation was perfectly organized and I would like to thank you for that, Look forward to your proposal for Niaragua with top hotels. Happy New Year

Tefel

Traveled July, 2009

We really appreciated the whole “ecolodge” experience in Nicaragua

I just wanted to thank you for our wonderful vacation. We both had a fabulous time! Machu Picchu was awesome, and we really appreciated the whole “ecolodge” experience in Nicaragua. Thanks again, and we will certainly use you for our next South American vacation.

Traveled To


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