Nicaragua 4 Day Itinerary

Nicaragua 4-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown formatted)

Day 1: Arrival in Managua & Transfer to Granada

  • Arrive at Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) - Ensure you have a valid passport and return ticket. Visa: Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and most European nations, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
  • Transfer to Granada - Approximately 45 minutes by taxi or shuttle service. This colonial city is Nicaragua’s gem, filled with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
  • Activities in Granada
    1. Iglesia La Merced & Parque Central - Visit the beautiful church and park at the heart of Granada.
    2. Masaya Volcano National Park - Explore one of the park’s two active craters (Nican Möyoc). It’s recommended to visit during sunset.

Day 2: Islets of Granada & Las Isletas

  • Activities
    1. Laguna de Apoyo - Spend the morning relaxing at this freshwater lake, enjoy swimming, kayaking or hiking.
    2. Isletas de Granada - In the afternoon, take a boat tour around Las Isletas, a chain of 365 islands inhabited by howler monkeys, sloths, and various bird species.

Day 3: León & Surfing

  • Transfer to León (~2 hours) - Travel north to Nicaragua’s second largest city known for its vibrant student culture.
  • Activities in León
    1. Catedral de León - Visit the beautiful cathedral, a mix of Gothic and neoclassical architecture.
    2. Ruinas de León Viejo - Explore the ruins of Leon Viejo, the original city founded by the Spanish in 1524 but abandoned due to pirate attacks.
  • Afternoon Surfing at Playa Juan Venado or La Boquita Beach - For those interested, rent a surfboard and catch some waves. Beginners are encouraged to take lessons!

Day 4: Mombacho Volcano & Return to Managua

  • Transfer to Mombacho Volcano (~1 hour) - Spend the morning hiking through the cloud forest on the volcano’s slopes.
  • Lunch in Masaya - Sample traditional Nicaraguan cuisine such as gallo pinto, vigorón, or nacatamales.
  • Transfer to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (~1 hour) - Depart for your onward journey with unforgettable memories of beautiful Nicaragua!