Project Description

… packed into one day, a variety of activities and sights, the perfect tour for anyone who wants to have an experience of Nicaragua but has limited time

We will start the morning with a relaxing horse and carriage ride through the city of Granada. Founded in 1524 by Francisco Hernandez Cordoba, Granada’s history is important to Nicaragua economically and politically. Its amazing architecture has been well preserved, a distinction from many other cities in Central America. Discover the meaning behind “La Gran Sultana”. We will stop at the oldest train station in Nicaragua for some photo opportunities before heading over to the fortress, originally used for making gunpowder to defend the city from pirates in the late 1500’s.

We will stop at the oldest house in the city, built in 1590 and then climb the bell tower and take in an expansive view of Granada City. We will then head towards Lake Nicaragua passing through La Calzada street known for its shops and wide open space and Parque Central with beautiful colonial houses all around.

Arriving at the lake we take an hour boat tour and discover some of the 365 Islands of Granada, a natural phenomenon created by Mombacho Volcano thousands of years ago, when it erupted and threw enormous rocks from its belly into Lake Nicaragua. These rocks later became small islands and today are inhabited by monkeys, fishermen and are weekend vacation homes of Nicaragua’s elite.

After the boat ride we will take a 40 minute drive in a comfortable air conditioned vehicle and arrive in Catarina in time for lunch. Considered one of the “White Towns” or Pueblos Blancos, no one knows why for sure, some say it is due to the color of the homes while others say witches or “witch doctors” live there. Whatever the reason, the towns are well worth the visit. San Juan Oriente is known for its pottery while Catarina offers a lovely view of its volcano crater Apoyo Lagoon and splendor from its many flowers and gardens. When “Nica” people want pottery or flowering plants, they head to Catarina.

Leaving Catarina we head south to San Juan de Oriente, another of the “White Towns” where we will have a chance to see the locals making pottery. This is a great place to buy a piece of Nicaraguan pottery for your collection as well as an opportunity to contribute to the livelihood of the local artists. At this point you have a choice of stopping at one last town. Masaya is known for its handy craft market with endless choices for souvenirs to accommodate any budget.

Daylight is fading and now is the perfect time to visit the Masaya Volcano. An impressive active volcano and Nicaragua’s “first” National Park. Since the Spanish Conquistodors arrived in Nicaragua in 1524 this volcano has been active. The last major eruption was in 1776 when it destroyed the small town of Nindiri and recently in 1993 when many vehicles in the park were destroyed by rocks from the volcano. Masaya volcano offers visitors the opportunity to see lava when conditions are optimal.

Your Tour Includes

  • transportation to and from your hotel, all admission fees, horse and carriage fee, personal tour guide

Cost of Your Tour

  • 1 to 2 people $170 US in total
  • 3 to 4 people $80 US per person

Payment in US dollars or Cordobas will be collected at the beginning of your tour.

For questions regarding this tour please contact us at info@juliotoursnicaragua.com

Full Day Tours