Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica
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Experience the best of Nicaragua in one unforgettable day from Costa Rica! Discover the country’s incredible landscapes, culture, and history as you visit a dormant volcanic crater and witness the impressive active Masaya Volcano. Browse colorful artisan markets for local crafts and souvenirs, then explore the charming colonial city of Granada with its vibrant architecture and historic streets. Finish your adventure with a scenic boat ride among the beautiful islets of Lake Nicaragua. Along the way, take in breathtaking views, learn about Nicaragua’s fascinating history and culture from your guide, and experience the unique character of this beautiful country. From dramatic volcanoes and colonial architecture to local markets, wildlife, and stunning lake scenery, this full-day adventure is designed to show you the very best of Nicaragua in a single day.
Your experience
Stop 1
Our first stop is the spectacular Catarina viewpoint, where you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Apoyo Crater Lagoon, Granada, and Lake Nicaragua. You will have time to walk around, take photos, and browse the local artisan shops for souvenirs and handcrafted Nicaraguan products.
Stop 2
We continue to the famous Masaya Volcano, one of the few active volcanoes in the world where you can safely stand near the crater. You will witness the impressive volcanic landscape, observe the rising gases, and experience the powerful energy of this unique natural wonder. Time at the crater viewpoint is limited to approximately 5-10 minutes in accordance with National Park regulations.
Stop 3
We then visit the charming colonial city of Granada, famous for its colorful streets, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Our visit includes a stop at the iconic La Merced Church, where guests may climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Granada, Mombacho Volcano, and Lake Nicaragua. Bell tower admission is USD $1 per person and may be unavailable during holidays or special events. We will also enjoy a traditional Nicaraguan chocolate experience, learning about the chocolate-making process and sampling authentic local chocolate. Afterward, you will have free time to explore Granada at your own pace, browse local shops, relax in the central plaza, or take an optional horse-drawn carriage ride through the city (additional cost). Before departing for Lake Nicaragua, we will enjoy a traditional Nicaraguan lunch at a local restaurant. The 2.5-hour visit includes sightseeing, free time, and lunch.
Stop 4
Our final experience is a scenic boat tour through the famous Islets of Granada, a stunning archipelago of small islands formed by ancient volcanic activity. During the cruise, you will enjoy spectacular views of the lake, the surrounding islets, and the peaceful atmosphere of this remarkable landscape. After the boat tour, we will begin our return journey to Costa Rica.
Stop 5
Our Costa Rica to Nicaragua guides will pick you up directly from your hotel and accompany you throughout the journey to the Nicaragua border. They will assist with every step of the border crossing process, making the crossing smooth and stress-free. The border crossing typically takes around 30 minutes, although waiting times may vary depending on the season, holidays, weekends, and border traffic conditions. Once in Nicaragua, we will begin the day with a healthy traditional breakfast at a lakeside restaurant, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Nicaragua and the iconic Ometepe Island in the distance.
Stop 6
4:50 am
Stop 7
4:30 am
Stop 8
5:30 am - Secrets Papagayo, Villas Sol, Occidental Papagayo, Mangroove
Stop 9
5:20 am
Stop 10
6:00 am
Stop 11
4:00 am
Stop 12
4:30 am
What’s included
- Hotel, Condo, or House pickup and drop-off
- National Park fees
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Guide
Not included
- Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate - (extra fee)
Hotels and Peri Supermarket at main Liberia Intersection - 5:45 am
6:00 am
Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate - 5:00 am (extra fee)
Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 5:30 am
Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gate and other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 5:30 am
Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Coco - 5:20 am
RIU Guanacaste/Palace 5:00 am (Main gate, NOT Lobby)
Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Grande - 4:30 am
Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Catalinas - 4:30 am
Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Flamingo - 4:30 am
Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Conchal - 4:45 am
Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Tamarindo/Langosta - 4:30 am
Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 4:00 AM - $50 fee per booking, not per person - billed separately Please let security know we are coming
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants. Please bring your passport on the day of your tour
- Your departure Ticket that proof of flight out of Costa Rica
- If your hotel is not listed, contact us for quoting
- It is prohibited to enter the country of Nicaragua with the following items: all kinds of Drones, all kinds of Binoculars, including those for Night vision, and any object considered for professional, journalistic, and similar audiovisual reproduction.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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