zHighlights of Nicaragua

On arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to your awaiting car and driver. Sit back and enjoy the one-hour drive to Granada where you’ll check in to the Plaza Colon. Our inviting boutique hotel is set in a restored Colonial-era residence in the heart of town. The rest of this day is yours to relax and enjoy as you wish.

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted to the Cocibolca Marina on the shores of Lake Nicaragua to embark on a sightseeing cruise that will take you through the picturesque islands and islets that dot the largest lake in Central America. Afterwards, a private sightseeing tour of Granada showcases the charm and highlights of this handsome city, founded in 1524 by Captain Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba. As you stroll with your personal guide through the historic district, you’ll learn about Granada’s important architectural landmarks including La Merced Church, San Francisco Convent and the fine Colonial homes that line the narrow streets. After sightseeing, your afternoon and evening are at leisure to relax or explore further at your own pace.  Meals B

You’ll depart Granada this morning, traveling with your car and driver to the Masaya Volcano for a privately guided tour here in Nicaragua’s first national park – established in 1979. Begin at the park’s environmental museum where you’ll learn about the geology, flora and fauna of the region, and then continue to the summit of the volcano. A short walk brings you to a vantage point overlooking the Santiago Crater, active since 1946. You’ll have time to explore the area with its unusual volcanic formations before visiting the Masaya Market, a terrific place to shop for locally made, artisan handicrafts. Continue to Leon and check in to the El Convento Hotel, set on the beautifully landscaped grounds of the historic San Francisco Convent.  Meals B

Defined by its graceful Spanish Colonial architecture and fascinating history, Leon is regarded by many as the historic, cultural and spiritual capital of Nicaragua. Accompanied by your personal native-born guide, you’ll spend the morning exploring the city, immersing in its charm and learning about its wealth of history and architecture. Among this morning’s highlights are the Ruben Dario Museum, dedicated to Nicaragua’s beloved poet, and the León Cathedral. Built between 1747 and the early 19th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest cathedral in Central America and features a unique architectural blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles. After sightseeing, your afternoon and evening are free to explore as you wish.  Meals B

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted to the airport in Managua for your onward journey.  Meals B