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Things to Do in Nicaragua

Choose from 24 Fun Things to Do in Nicaragua

Managua Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana de Managua)

Don’t let the lack of spires and bell towers fool you—Managua’s modern Metropolitan Cathedral (New Cathedral, or La Nueva Catedral) is intended as Nicaragua’s preeminent church. A unique structure of a square base topped by 63 translucent domes built in 1993, the then-controversial cathedral is now an unforgettable sight.

The Basics

Managua’s Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Mary was completed in at significant expense—$45 million, some of which was donated by the owner of Domino’s Pizza—which upset some Managuans, as did its unique architectural style. But the project moved forward to replace the Old Cathedral of Managua (Catedral de Managua), which was largely destroyed in the devastating 1972 earthquake (though its ruins are still a popular Managua attraction). For this reason, the Metropolitan Cathedral is affectionately nicknamed the New Cathedral, and is attended by the religiously devout and architecturally curious alike. Take a lap around the cathedral to fully appreciate its avant-garde design by Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, or visit during mass for a glimpse into local Catholic traditions. Look for a Managua city tour that includes a stop at the New Cathedral for a chance to learn about its context, history, and significance.

Things to Know Before You Go

The New Cathedral is a must for architecture fans and those with religious interests.
Plan to spend about an hour at the cathedral.
If going inside the church, dress modestly and keep your voice hushed.

How to Get There

The best way to reach the Metropolitan Cathedral is in one of Managua’s many cheap taxis. A number of nearby bus stops also service the neighborhood, home to popular Managua attractions such as the Rubén Darío National Theatre (Teatro Nacional Rubén Darío) and the National Palace of Culture (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura).

When to Get There

The cathedral is open year-round. Mass is held at 12pm and 6pm Tuesday through Saturday, and at 8am, 11am, and 6pm on Sunday. The weekday 12pm services are typically in English.

The Domes

The Metropolitan Cathedral is sometimes referred to as La Chichona, derived from the Spanish slang word chichi, or breast. The nickname references the cathedral’s 63 domes, which represent the 63 parishes of the archdiocese.

Plaza del Sol C-1, Managua, Nicaragua

From $ 40

Rub en Darío Museum

The Rubén Darío Museum (Museo Rubén Darío) is dedicated to the famous poet, writer, and ambassador who brought modernismo to Spanish literature. A must for poetry fans, this León museum is also a good choice for those curious about Nicaraguan history—the museum offers an intimate look at 19th-century upper-class life in Nicaragua.

The Basics

Walk through the house—Darío’s childhood home—and see the poet’s manuscripts and everyday trappings such as his bible, photos, work suits, and bed. The well-preserved rooms and courtyard also offer a glimpse into what life was like for Nicaragua’s well-to-do in the late 19th century. Signs with information about the exhibits are in Spanish.

Unless you go to the Rubén Darío Museum as part of a guided tour, visits are self-guided. If you’re based in Managua or Granada, you can visit León on a day trip.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Rubén Darío Museum is ideal for poetry and history buffs.
Plan to spend roughly an hour at the museum.
Though entrance is free, donations are strongly recommended.
Visit with a guide to make the most of the tour, especially if you have limited Spanish.

How to Get There

The Rubén Darío Museum is centrally located in León, on the corner of Calle de Rubén Darío and Avenue 4. You might pass by it walking through León’s historic center, or you can hire a cab if coming from another part of town.

When to Get There

The museum is open from 8am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday, and from 8am to 12pm on Sunday. Try visiting in the middle of the day for a reprieve from León’s infamous heat.

León Sightseeing Tours

León city tours often include the Rubén Darío Museum in addition to other top sights around Nicaragua’s colonial city like the San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco), León Cathedral (Catedral de León or Basílica de la Asunción)—the largest cathedral in Central America, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the burial place of Rubén Darío—and other specialty museums.

Calles Central Rubén Darío and Avenue 4, Leon, Nicaragua

From $ 129

Mombacho Volcano

With an Aztec name that translates to “Steep Mountain,” the Mombacho volcano certainly lives up to its name. Its 4,410-foot (1,344-meter) peak towers over Nicaragua’s colonial city of Granada, creating both a beautiful backdrop and a huge backyard ripe for adventure and exploration.

The Basics

The summit of Mombacho is reachable by road, but the most rewarding way to explore the volcano is on foot: pass through sprawling coffee plantations, fields of wild orchids, and unspoiled cloud forest dotted with natural hot springs and hissing fumaroles. A number of hiking trails run up to the summit and through the surrounding Mombacho Cloud Forest Reserve, which is home to an impressive 800 plant species and 171 animal and bird species, including quetzals, hummingbirds, howler monkeys, and unique indigenous critters such as the Mombacho butterfly and Mombacho salamander. You can also access the summit on one of four daily truck rides.

Most Mombacho hikes require a guide, which you can book in advance or at the entrance to the mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve. Canopy zipline tours are also popular, especially among families, with various routes encompassing lofty platforms and hanging bridges.

Things to Know Before You Go

Mombacho volcano is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lodges and campsites are available; book ahead.
El Cráter is the most kid-friendly and well-marked trail.
Take your own truck to the summit only if it is equipped with 4WD and you have experience driving on steep inclines and unpaved roads.

How to Get There

Mombacho is located in the Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve, six miles (10 kilometers) south of Granada. Catch any public bus from the cemetery and ask the driver to drop you off at Mombacho, and then grab a tuk-tuk for the short ride to the entrance. If taking your own vehicle, follow signs for the reserve along the Granada-Nandaime highway. A third but more expensive option is to take a taxi from Granada straight to the entrance.

When to Get There

The Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve is open from 8am to 5pm Friday through Sunday or by reservation. Go early in the morning for minimal crowds and maximum time to hang out; the last truck to the summit goes up at 1pm and comes down at 4pm. If visiting from Managua or Masaya, be sure to leave early to get a head start on traffic.

Mombacho’s Last Eruption

The Mombacho volcano’s last eruption, more than 3,000 years ago, was responsible for creating the many islands of Lake Nicaragua. Today, the now-dormant Mombacho offers spectacular views over the glittering lake and Las Isletas below.

Managua, Nicaragua

Varies

From $ 47

Islets of Granada (Las Isletas de Granada)

Lake Nicaragua, Central America’s largest lake, is home to an archipelago of 365 islands. Formed by the eruption of Mombacho Volcano, the Islets of Granada include uninhabited isles, traditional fishing villages, private residences, and luxurious resorts. Explore as part of a “best of” Nicaragua or Granada tour, or with a private guide.

The Basics

A boat cruise or kayak excursion around Lake Nicaragua makes a popular addition to a sightseeing tour of Granada. Floating past the islands, travelers enjoy stunning views of the islands and Mombacho Volcano, as well as a glimpse of local life on the islands. Wildlife lovers can also visit Monkey Island, known for its large population of capuchin monkeys, and look out for birds, including warblers, tanagers, hawks, and jays. Granada City tours from Managua often visit Lake Nicaragua as do multi-day excursions that also explore Western Nicaragua.

Things to Know Before You Go

All of the islands are car-free; the only way to get around is on foot.
There is a restaurant on one of the islands where it’s possible to purchase lunch.
Some boat tours to the Islets of Granada are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.

How to Get There

The Islets of Granada are located on Lake of Nicaragua, along the coast of Granada. Boat tours leave from Puerto Asese, a 5-minute taxi ride from downtown Granada.

When to Get There

Boat cruises run all year. The most popular time for sightseeing is during the dry season months of November to April. However, for bird-watching, time your visit for May and June, during mating and nesting season.

Ometepe Island

In the center of the vast Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe Island is the largest island on the lake. Reachable by ferry from Granada and San Jorge, it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with beautiful sandy beaches, volcanic peaks, and lush rain forest. A popular holiday resort and weekend getaway from Granada, the island is a great destination for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as swimming and kayaking around the lake.

Granada, Nicaragua

From $ 29

Ortiz Gurdian Foundation Art Center

Nicaragua may not be known for its museums, but León’s Ortiz Gurdián Foundation Art Center holds its own. The center seamlessly blends a private collection of national and international art, from renowned Nicaraguan painter Armando Morales to world-famous artists like Rubens, Miró, Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, and Diego Rivera.

The Basics

The nonprofit Museo de Arte Fundacion Ortiz-Gurdián is spread across four restored colonial buildings in León’s historic center, each with a different collection spanning from pre-Columbian Nicaraguan artifacts to contemporary works from around the world. You can comb through the galleries on your own or hire a guide at the museum for a small fee. As one of the best art galleries in León, the gallery is included in a number of city tours, which show you the museum in the context of León’s thriving cultural scene.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Ortiz Gurdián Foundation Art Center is a must for art aficionados.
Plan to spend roughly two hours exploring the collection.
Courtyards with gardens and fountains offer places to relax between browsing.
Entrance is free on Sundays.
The museum has a sister location in Managua.

How to Get There

The Ortiz Gurdián Foundation Art Center is centrally located just off the park in León at Del Parque Central 2c. Pass right by it on a walk through the historic center, or take a taxi if you’re coming from another part of town. You can also visit as a day trip from Managua or Granada.

When to Get There

The center is open from 9am to 5pm Tuesday through Friday, 9:30am to 5pm Saturday, and 9am to 4pm Sunday. Go midday as a reprieve from León’s infamous heat.

Nearby Attractions

For a DIY León city tour, string together a visit to the art foundation with other nearby attractions such as the Rubén Darío Museum (Museo Rubén Darío), San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco), and León Cathedral (Catedral de León or Basílica de la Asunción)—the largest cathedral in Central America, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the burial place of Rubén Darío.

3a Av SO, Leon, Nicaragua

Tues-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 8am-4pm

Varies

From $ 45

Iglesia de la Merced

There are several churches in Granada to visit, but the Iglesia de la Merced (not far from Central Park) is noted by many as the city's most beautiful. The church on this site dates from the early 16th century, although it has been damaged twice (to the point of nearly-complete destruction once) and rebuilt, most recently in the 1860s. The present look of the interior is from the most recent reconstruction, while the Baroque facade was added in the 1780s.

Anyone can enjoy a stroll through La Merced church, but the best reason to go is to climb the church's lone bell tower for commanding views of the city center. You will be able to explore the church itself for free, but there is a small admission charge to climb up into the tower. Note that you may need to find a caretaker to gain access to the tower stairs, which are generally open from 10am-6pm on most days, and those who are claustrophobic should be aware it's a narrow spiral staircase to the top.

Calle Real Xalteva, Granada, Nicaragua

From $ 54

Casa de los Tres Mundos

If you’re interested in cultural events while in Nicaragua’s Granada, make Casa de los Tres Mundos part of your itinerary. This non-profit arts and cultural center shows temporary collections by local and international artists, and the works on show are often for sale.

Located in a colonial mansion, Casa de los Tres Mundos hosts many performances each month, including poetry readings, films screenings, and dance performances by the likes of the local dance group, Nicarocalli. Entrance to performances is normally for a small fee, or completely free.

Founded in 1987 by Austrian author Dietmar Schönherr and Nicaraguan poet and politician, Ernesto Cardenal, Casa de los Tres Mundos also acts as a community center for Nicaraguans who are looking to get creative at the Casa’s theater school, art studio and music academy. Casa de los Tres Mundos also finances and develops rural development projects in the Malacatoya area. The foundation welcomes individuals or groups who can volunteer at the center.

Practical Info

Casa de los Tres Mundos sits on Calle Cervantes, near Granada’s central park.

Calle Cervantes, Granada, Nicaragua

Vary

From $ 54

San Francisco Convent (Iglesia de San Francisco)

The San Francisco Convent is both an active Catholic church and a museum with historic photographs, culturally important paintings, and statues from the Zapatera Island archaeological site on Lake Nicaragua. With a history dating back to 1529, it's among the oldest churches in Nicaragua and remains one of Granada’s most memorable sights.

The Basics

Thanks to its central location, the San Francisco Convent (Convento San Francisco) is an easy-to-visit Granada landmark. Climb the stairs leading up to the church for a view of the local street scene, snap photos in front of the elegant cream and garnet facade, or pay a small entry fee to check out the church’s interior and attached museum. To hear the whole history behind the church—which includes multiple fires and pirate attacks—go as part of a Granada sightseeing tour; some even include round-trip transit from Managua.

Things to Know Before You Go

The San Francisco Convent is a must for art and history lovers.
This attraction is not wheelchair accessible.
Plan to spend less than an hour visiting.
If short on time, you can visit on a day trip from Managua.

How to Get There

The San Francisco Convent and Museum is located on Calle Cervantes, just a few blocks from Granada’s central plaza. Plan to walk or grab one of the city’s plentiful taxis.

When to Get There

The convent is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm and on weekends from 9am to 4pm. Keep in mind that this is an active church with regular services, too.

A History of Survival

The San Francisco Convent has survived pirate raids, fires, and William Walker's infamous 1856 siege of Granada. Though the convent has been rebuilt a few times, it has always stood on the same site.

Granada, Nicaragua

Varies

From $ 54

Ruben Dario National Theatre (Teatro Nacional Ruben Dario)

A humble exterior conceals an elegant, velvet-swathed concert hall at the Rubén Darío National Theatre (Teatro Nacional Rubén Darío), Nicaragua’s premier exhibition space. The hall is a true homage to Managua’s cosmopolitan roots with Spanish chandeliers, American design inspiration, and the best of Latin American and other cultural performances.

The Basics

The theater is divided into two sections: the Main Hall, which seats 1,200 and hosts large performances; and the Crystal Room, named for its two magnificent Spanish chandeliers and reserved for art gallery showings and intimate concerts. Both boast affordable admission fees and state-of-the-art performances, from children’s choirs to operas. Visit anytime for a stroll around the exterior of the theater, or make the most of your trip by aligning your visit with a performance—the only time the theater interior is open to the public. Barring that, for a comprehensive and hassle-free experience, visit the national theater as part of a Managua city tour. Most sightseeing tours include a stop here because of the theater’s history and cultural significance as one of the only buildings in Managua that survived the 1972 earthquake.

Things to Know Before You Go

For popular performances, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance.
If attending a performance, dress in appropriate theater-going attire; for example, shorts, sandals, and flip-flops are not allowed.
Arrive early, as late-comers will not be seated.
Children under 4 years old are not allowed in the theater.

How to Get There

The best way to reach the theater is in one of Managua’s many inexpensive taxis. A number of nearby bus stops also service the neighborhood, which is right by the malecón on the shores of Lake Managua.

When to Get There

The Rubén Darío National Theatre is open to the public only during performances, so be sure to check the schedule of events on their website. The theater hosts about 10 performances per month.

A Poetic Beginning

The national theater is named after the most famous Nicaraguan poet and father of Modernismo, Rubén Darío. The theater periodically hosts poetry readings in his honor.

Barrio Ruben Dario, Managua, Nicaragua

Varies

From $ 40

Catarina

From bougainvillea to orchids, dahlias and jasmine, the little town of Catarina overflows with flowers and herbs which tumble from the nurseries, gardens, and flower baskets dotted around town. On weekends especially, you’ll see daytrippers from Managua, Masaya and Granada come to smell the flowers and purchase some blossoms for their homes.

Home to more flowers than people, Catarina is also known for its skilled basket weavers and woodcarvers. You can buy locally-made crafts at the Villa de Artesanías, which you’ll see at the town entrance. Catarina is also home to lots of lively restaurants, and in November and December especially, there are many street fairs, like the festival of Santa Catalina.

Catarina is also known for its views of Laguna de Apoyo and the volcanoes and islands beyond. On the edge of the lake, Mirador de Catarina viewpoint is easy to find, and on a clear day you can see all the way out to the twin volcanic peaks of Ometepe. On sunny days, it’s also popular to head to the nearby beach on the lagoon.

Practical Info

Catarina is a nine-mile (15-km) drive from Granada. The town can be reached by taking the Granada-Masaya highway for about six miles (10 km). Then turn left at “Las Flores” and continue up the hill to Catarina. To visit the Mirador de Catarina lookout point, there is a small fee of about $1.

Catarina, Nicaragua

From $ 108

Old Cathedral of Managua (Antigua Catedral de Managua)

The Old Cathedral of Managua (Catedral de Managua) is a spectacular ruin whose gilded neoclassical facade still stands but insides were devastated in a 1972 earthquake that shook Nicaragua. Though visitors are not allowed inside, the cathedral’s striking beauty and historical significance make a visit worthwhile.

The Basics

Inspired by the Saint-Sulpice Church (Eglise Saint-Sulpice) in Paris, this impressive edifice is both an enduring symbol of Nicaragua’s past and a testament to the strength of natural forces. But don’t expect pews and prayers. Though you can peek inside at the cathedral’s original tapestries, statues, and other decor through barred windows, entrance is forbidden due to safety concerns and questions about the structure’s post-earthquake integrity. Instead, take a lap around the outside of the never-restored ruins to admire its bell tower, clock tower, and pediment, which were designed and constructed in Belgium in 1920 before being shipped to Nicaragua.

Easily combine a trip to the cathedral with other nearby attractions like the neighboring National Palace (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura) and the monuments of Plaza de la República on a Managua walking tour, or visit as part of a larger Managua city sightseeing tour for an in-depth understanding of the area’s historical and cultural significance, as well as easy logistics.

Things to Know Before You Go

The cathedral interior is closed to the public, but the exterior grounds can be visited.
The cathedral is also sometimes referred to as St. James’ Cathedral (Catedral de Santiago) or the Antigua Catedral de Managua.
The old cathedral ruins are a must for history buffs and first-time visitors to Managua.
Plan your visit around the opening hours for the National Palace (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura) or House of Peoples (Casa de los Pueblos) to make the most of the trip.

How to Get There

The Old Cathedral of Managua is located just a block from the malecón (sea wall) in northwestern Managua. Take one of the city’s many inexpensive taxis, or ride the bus to the National Palace (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura).

When to Get There

An outdoor attraction open year-round, the Old Cathedral is best visited alongside other nearby Managua attractions.

Cathedral Restoration

Though the Nicaraguan government has long promised to restore the cathedral to its former glory, funding issues have prevented any progress. A new initiative backed by Mexican and Italian engineers will take another look to determine the feasibility of restoration. Meanwhile, the New Cathedral of Managua (La Nueva Catedral) was built in 1993 to take its place.

2a Avenida NE, Managua 11001, Nicaragua

From $ 40

Ometepe Island (Isla de Ometepe)

With its pair of volcanic peaks shrouded in mist and rising up from the waters of Nicaragua Lake, Ometepe Island paints a hauntingly beautiful landscape for those looking out across the lake. A popular choice for a day trip from Managua or Granada, Ometepe is more than just a pretty face – it’s also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and its sandy beaches, cloud forests and two volcanoes (the mile-high Concepción and 4,400-foot Maderas) are teeming with unique plant and wildlife.

Outdoors enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for hiking, cycling and horseback riding, as well as swimming, kayaking and fishing around the coast, but equally fascinating is a series of pre-Columbian petroglyphs and artifacts on the island dating back to 2000 BCE., which offer an intriguing insight into the island’s rich cultural history. You may want to hire a local guide to help you get around (transportation on the islands isn't extensive) and direct you to the best hiking trails.

Practical Info

Ometepe Island is located on Lake Nicaragua and can be reached by ferry from Granada and San Jorge.

Nicaragua

From $ 99

National Palace of Culture (Palacio Nacional de la Cultura)

In a city infamous for a lacking cultural center, Managua’s National Palace of Culture stands as a testament to Nicaragua’s rich history. The complex houses the National Museum (Museo Nacional Dioclesiano Chávez), the National Archives, and the National Library (Biblioteca Nacional Rubén Darío) all under one stunning neoclassical roof.

The Basics

The sprawling National Palace of Culture is best known to visitors as the home of the National Museum. Walk through the museum’s nine galleries filled with pre-Columbian ceramics, dinosaur bones, Latin American paintings, and more. General admission includes access to English-speaking guides who help explain the many exhibits. Bundle your visit with trips to the nearby Old Cathedral of Managua (Catedral de Managua), Plaza de la Revolución, and Hotel el Gran Marquez for an easy all-in-one discovery of top Managua attractions. Or for a more comprehensive and hassle-free experience, join a larger city tour that includes the National Palace and more far-flung points of interest in the city.

Things to Know Before You Go

The National Palace of Culture is a must-see for anyone with interest in Nicaraguan history and culture.
Quickly admire the building’s facade or plan to spend up to two hours exploring exhibits.

How to Get There

The best way to reach the National Palace of Culture is in one of Managua’s many inexpensive taxis. A number of nearby bus stops also service the neighborhood, which is right by the malecón on the shores of Lake Managua.

When to Get There

The National Museum is open weekdays from 8am to 5pm and weekends from 9am to 4pm. For a stunning view of the National Palace, visit when it is lit up (though closed) at night.

Sandinista Revolution

In 1978, the National Palace had housed the Nicaraguan parliament for over 50 years. Then, on Aug. 22, of that year, Sandinista revolutionaries overthrew the Somoza dictatorship, ending the palace’s role as the seat of the Nicaraguan parliament almost overnight.

Managua, Nicaragua

US $2

From $ 40

Masaya

If you’re looking for handmade jewelry while in Nicaragua, or locally made rocking chairs, hammocks, and traditional blouses, just head to the city of Masaya. Its famous Mercado Artesanías is housed in the old Gothic market building which dates back to the 19th century. As you stroll the market, look out for high-quality hemp weavings and handmade necklaces, as well as just about every other craft you can think of.

When in Masaya, it’s also popular to take a stroll along the pretty lakeside promenade, discovering the city’s historic plazas and 15th-century churches along the way. A couple of blocks away from Mercado Artesanías, try to visit Masaya’s huge central market too. Here, you’ll find sections ranging from butchers’ stalls to electronics stands.

Masaya is also known as the "Cradle of Folklore." Visit on a Thursday night for the lively Noche de Verbena (Night of Revelry), when traditional dances are performed in the streets. Also, be sure to look out for the fall fiesta of San Jerónimo, when street parties and folklore dances take over the historic center, turning the whole city into a carnival.

Shopped out and had enough dancing? Hike up to Masaya volcano’s smoking crater. The most active volcano in the region, discover Masaya’s lava tunnels, and check out the on-site Ecological Museum to learn more about its volcanic geology and history.

Practical Info

14 km west of Granada, Masaya is a popular day trip. As the third-biggest city in the country, with a population of around 140,000, there are shuttles from all around Nicaragua that can take you the crafts city, and from Managua Airport, a private taxi to Masaya will cost around US$20-30. The Masaya Volcano National Park entrance fee is C$100 for foreign visitors.

Masaya, Nicaragua

From $ 85

Ruins of León Viejo

Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage–listed ruins of León Viejo makes it easy to imagine life for the first Spanish settlers in Nicaragua. Located on the slopes of Momotombo volcano and preserved by volcanic ash, the ruins are some of the most complete Spanish colonial ruins in Central America—even though they’re also some of the oldest, dating back to 1524.

The Basics

Exploring the León Viejo ruins makes a great day trip from León, as well as from Granada or Managua. Wander the old city’s 3-foot-high (1-meter) remains and see the layout of 16 of the city’s original structures, including the old plaza, convent, cathedral, and fort. Many of the structures have signs in English and Spanish that explain their significance, but you can also hire a guide at the entrance for a small fee.

For the highest quality guided tours of León Viejo, book ahead with a vetted tour company. Many tours offer convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from León, so you don’t need to figure out transportation.

Things to Know Before You Go

León Viejo is a must for history and archaeology fans.
Wear good walking shoes and sun protection, and bring water plus a camera for good photos of the ruins.
Plan to spend roughly two hours walking around the site.
The ruins of León Viejo are not accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

To get to León Viejo, take a bus to La Paz Centro, a town on the highway between Managua and León. Then from La Paz, local buses regularly head to the ruins. If you’re coming by public transportation, it’s best to visit in the morning as the last bus from La Paz to León is at 2pm.

When to Get There

León Viejo is open from 8am to 5pm daily. Visit in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds.

Abandoned City to UNESCO World Heritage Site

León Viejo, surrounded by belching volcanoes, was abandoned in 1610 after a huge earthquake caused locals to reassess the town’s precarious location. Residents decided to resettle 20 miles west, in León’s current location, and León Viejo was left to crumble under the falling ash of Mount Momotombo. The gradually buried site was rediscovered nearly 350 years later and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its significance as the only 16th-century colonial city in the New World that never expanded beyond its original site plan.

Nicaragua

Varies

From $ 58

Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve (Laguna de Apoyo)

A crystalline lagoon just a short drive from Granada, Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve (Reserva Natural Laguna de Apoyo) is one of the most popular natural attractions in Nicaragua. Get away from the city for a few hours of kid-approved water sports, or hang out and relax all day in a lounge chair poised on the rim of this beautiful crater lake.

The Basics

At Laguna de Apoyo, you can swim in thermally heated waters, rent kayaks or scuba diving equipment, or enjoy views of the lake and surrounding forest from a lakefront bar or restaurant. Though it’s possible to spend the night, most people find that a day trip from Managua or Granada is the easiest way to visit for just the right amount of time. Most day trips also include such nearby attractions as the Mirador de Catarina or Masaya Volcano.

Things to Know Before You Go

Laguna de Apoyo is a top pick for visitors to Nicaragua.
Bring your camera to capture views of nearby Mombacho volcano.
Sun protection can be hard to find at the lagoon, so bring your own.

How to Get There

Laguna de Apoyo is centrally located roughly 20 minutes from Granada and Masaya and just over an hour from Managua. The easiest way to visit is with private transportation, a taxi, or on a guided tour, as most daily public buses stop about a 1.5-hour walk from the lagoon.

When to Get There

Thanks to thermal vents inside the crater, Apoyo Lagoon remains at a pleasant swimming temperature year-round. Plan to visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive and the sun gets too strong.

Forested Shores

Laguna de Apoyo Natural Reserve is part of a tropical dry-forest ecosystem with a diverse wildlife population. The reserve is home to more than 500 species of plants and tropical dry trees, as well as more than 200 documented birds species.

Laguna de Apoyo, Granada, Nicaragua

From $ 139

Masaya Volcano

Skip the hike and drive right up to the lava-spitting rim of Masaya Volcano (Volcan Masaya), perched between Managua and Granada. The active volcano’s famous lava shows at the Santiago Crater, combined with ridiculously easy access, have made it one of the most popular attractions in all of Nicaragua.

The Basics

Daytime trips to Masaya Volcano National Park—the first national park in Nicaragua—allow for leisurely hiking and tours of bat-inhabited caves, ideal for a quick urban escape into one of Nicaragua’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. The real show, however, begins after sunset, when cars line the highway to witness the spectacular sight of lava roiling just below the active crater’s rim, making for once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities and a chance to see geology in action. Night tours are so popular that tours are limited to just a few minutes at the rim—but that is all it takes to make a lasting impression. Make the most of your trip to Managua or Granada with a guided tour that takes in Masaya Volcano and other nearby attractions like the Mirador de Catarina, Lake Apoyo, or Lake Nicaragua.

Things to Know Before You Go

If visiting at night, go early and plan to keep yourself entertained while you wait for the “show” to begin.
Some Costa Rica and San Juan del Sur shore excursions include a trip to Masaya for unbeatable transportation value.
The volcano itself is wheelchair accessible; check with tour providers for details.

How to Get There

Masaya Volcano is located just 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Managua and 18 miles (30 kilometers) from Granada, roughly a 30- or 40-minute drive, respectively. You can take your own car or a public bus from either city to the park, but be sure to call the park in advance to reserve a spot if you want to visit without a tour.

When to Get There

An outdoor activity open year-round, Masaya Volcano is easy to visit on your own schedule. Daytime visits are ideal for hiking and outdoor adventure, while night tours let you see the volcano’s famous lava.

Volcanic Activity at the Masaya Volcano

Masaya is one of the most active volcanoes in the area, having erupted at least 19 times since Spanish arrival in 1524. The most recent eruption was in 1993, though smaller ash eruptions have occurred as recently as 2008.

Nicaragua

From $ 13

Cerro Negro Volcano

Ever wanted to sandboard down the youngest volcano in Central America? Just head to Nicaragua’s Cerro Negro Volcano. Looming over the village of Malpaisillo and the surrounding jungle, Cerro Negro pierces the clouds and spurts ash from its black crater.

Part of the Central American Volcanic Arc, Cerro Negro is one of the most active volcanoes in the country. Hiking the stratovolcano is a tough but rewarding 1.5-hour hike that takes you a mile up to the crater. From the top, enjoy 360-degree views of Telica and San Cristobal volcanoes, and get ready for the ride down the 1,640-foot mountain.

To sandboard down the volcano, you’ll need to go with a tour group. Your guide will set you up with a specially-adapted sandboard that can take you down the steepest side of the crater at speeds of up to 60 km an hour. Don’t worry if you’d prefer to take the descent more slowly—you can control how quickly your board goes depending on how you balance, and of course, you can always walk down the volcano if sandboarding isn’t for you.

Practical Info

The site is set 25 km northeast of Leon. Visitors should bring water and sunscreen, and wear sturdy boots for the hike up Cerro Negro. Sunrise is a good time to make the trek, as it’s not yet too hot. The price to enter the volcano (which is a protected area) is US$5 for foreigners.

Malpaisillo, Nicaragua

From $ 38

León Cathedral

The largest church in Central America, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed León Cathedral is a must-see while in León, a charming colonial city in Nicaragua’s northwest corner. The cathedral combines a striking blend of architectural styles with religious import and pirate-riddled history, making for a church visit unlike any other.

The Basics

Covering an entire block in León’s city center, the Cathedral of León (Basílica Catedral de la Asunción) is impossible to miss. After admiring the blend of baroque, neoclassical, and Gothic architectural elements that give the church its striking appearance, head inside to climb a narrow staircase to the domed roof. From here, you can see panoramic views of León, the La Libertad bell that announced Central America’s independence in 1821, and the historic cannons that were used during an 1824 siege of the city. In the cellar, a series of tunnels connects the cathedral to other León churches; visit on a guided tour to learn about the frequent pirate attacks that prompted their construction and walk inside three of the historic tunnels. For a more robust and hassle-free experience, visit the cathedral as part of a León city sightseeing tour or a day tour from Managua.

Things to Know Before You Go

Quickly admire the building’s facade or plan to spend up to two hours exploring inside.
Roof access requires some agility and shoe removal.

How to Get There

The León Cathedral is located in the city’s central plaza, right next to its main park. Leon is a popular day trip destination from Managua and a shore excursion trip from San Juan del Sur and Corinto.

When to Get There

The cathedral is open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 12pm and from 2pm to 4pm. Visit early in the day for the smallest crowds.

Other Cathedral Sights

In addition to its architectural beauty and rooftop views, cathedral visitors will also see the tomb of famous Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío, whose final resting place is guarded by a weeping marble lion, and a statue of a black Christ that bears the hack wounds of a pirate attack.

Avenida Central, Leon, Nicaragua

Varies

From $ 45

Lake Nicaragua (Lake Cocibolca)

Nicaragua’s largest lake goes by many names: Lake Nicaragua, Lake Cocibolca, Lake Granada and even “Mar Dulce,” or “Sweet Sea.” The official name is Lake Nicaragua, but since it’s right next to the city of Granada you can see how “Lake Granada” might also seem appropriate. The lake is a major source of activities in the area, both for visitors and residents, and its sheer size means that there’s plenty of room for everyone who wants to get on or in the water.

You can take boat or kayak tours on Lake Nicaragua to explore Las Isletas (the archipelago of tiny islands), take a day trip to Isla Zapatera or spend a night on the lake’s biggest island, Ometepe. This enormous lake is home to some larger-than-you-might-expect creatures, including bull sharks. Weather conditions can make the lake surface choppy (and boat trips unpleasant for anyone with seasickness) - you might rightfully wonder how Lake Nicaragua got its “Sweet Sea” nickname. If you’d prefer to stay on solid ground, you can still enjoy the lakeside atmosphere in Granada, sharing the beach with local families.

Granada, Nicaragua

From $ 55