Nicaragua-6-day-itinerary

Nicaragua: 6-Day Adventure Itinerary

Visa Requirements:

  • Most nationalities can enter Nicaragua visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the latest requirements based on your citizenship before traveling.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Transportation:

  • Buses: Affordable and readily available, connecting major cities and towns.
  • Taxis: Abundant in urban areas but negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Shuttles: Convenient for traveling between tourist destinations. Pre-book for better prices and guaranteed seats.
  • Rental Car: Consider this option for exploring remote areas or having more flexibility.

Currency: Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO). US dollars are widely accepted, but you’ll get a better exchange rate using local currency.

Day 1: Arrival in Granada & Colonial Charm

  • Morning: Arrive at Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua. Take a pre-booked shuttle to Granada (~1 hour drive).
  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel in the heart of Granada. Explore the cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture like the Iglesia La Merced and the Catedral de Granada.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.

Day 2: Volcano Views & Island Relaxation

  • Morning: Take a boat tour to the Mombacho Volcano. Hike to the summit for panoramic views of Granada and Lake Nicaragua.
  • Afternoon: Head to Isla Ometepe, a volcanic island in Lake Nicaragua. Relax on the beaches, explore the twin volcanoes (Concepción and Maderas), or go kayaking.

Day 3: Surf’s Up in San Juan del Sur

  • Morning: Take a shuttle from Granada to San Juan del Sur (~2.5 hours). Check into your accommodation and head to Playa Maderas for surfing lessons or simply soak up the sun.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant town of San Juan del Sur. Enjoy fresh seafood, browse local shops, and watch surfers carve the waves at Playa San Juan.

Day 4: Nature Adventures & Wildlife Encounters

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Masaya Volcano National Park. Witness active lava flows and explore the surrounding rainforest.
  • Afternoon: Visit the El Chocoyero Ecological Reserve for wildlife encounters with monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.

Day 5: Colonial History in León

  • Morning: Travel by bus from San Juan del Sur to León (~2 hours). Check into your hotel and explore the historic center.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Catedral de León, renowned for its stunning architecture. Learn about Nicaragua’s revolutionary past at the Museo de la Revolución.
  • Evening: Sample traditional Nicaraguan cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Farewell to Nicaragua

  • Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in León before transferring to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) for your departure.

Things To Know:

  • Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

  • Haggling is common practice in markets and with taxi drivers.

  • Safety: Nicaragua is generally safe for tourists. Exercise common sense precautions like avoiding deserted areas at night and keeping valuables secure.

Enjoy your Nicaraguan adventure!