Nicaragua's Hidden Gems

Itinerary Highlights

Nicaragua is a land of delightfully raw travel experiences, especially when compared to its tourist-focused neighboring country, Costa Rica. From the wildly painted chicken buses following their own street rules to the frequently seen vaqueros herding livestock down dirt paths and across fields, traveling through Nicaragua reminds you that you are far away from home. There aren't many other places in the world where one can drive close to the edge of an active volcano, but you don't have to be a thrill seeker to appreciate Nicaragua. This is a wonderful place to disconnect and recharge, from quiet mornings with coffee and birdsongs, to surfing epic waves without battling crowds of other tourists.

Your journey in the land of lakes and volcanoes begins in the colonial city of Granada, characterized by its colored houses, cobblestone streets and historic buildings. You will then take a breezy fifteen minute boat ride through the Isletas in Lake Nicaragua, reaching a private island oasis, Jicaro Island Lodge, perfectly positioned to showcase amazing sunsets over Mombacho Volcano. Then, you will make your way to Nekupe Resort, set on a 2,000 acre nature reserve in Nicaragua's Pacific countryside, inviting you for a full nature experience as you are given your own ATV upon arrival for exploring the landscape. From safari style adventures to horse riding, mountain biking, hiking and bird watching, the possibilities to get outdoors are endless. End your adventure in the jungle surf town of San Juan del Sur at Morgan's Rock, set on 4,000 acre of private and protected reserve, known for its mile-long picturesque sandy beach and not a person in sight. Fall asleep to the roaring sound of the waves and noise of the jungle.

Hotels and lodges described in the itinerary are recommended by Craft Travel but there are numerous options in each destination and we will customize your itinerary based upon your preferences. With your feedback, we will similarly customize suggested activities, time spent in each location and trip extensions to additional destinations of interest nearby.

Detailed Itinerary

Upon arrival to Managua International Airport, you will be transferred with your guide to your hotel in Granada. Get acquainted with the beautiful Spanish-colonial city on a horse-drawn carriage ride. No visit to Granada is complete without a tour of the city’s beautiful historic center and what better way than on a traditional horse-drawn carriage. Founded by the Spanish in 1524, Granada is one of the oldest colonial cities in the Western hemisphere. On this privately guided walking and horse-carriage tour you will explore the San Francisco Church and neighboring San Francisco Convent built in 1529. Now functioning as a museum, the Convent is home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art. Continue to the beautiful Merced Church where you will have the opportunity to climb to the top of the bell tower and take in spectacular views over the city, Lake Nicaragua, and Volcán Mombacho. Next, head over to La Polvora Fortress to learn the history of the old fortress and walk through its immaculate courtyard. Finish your tour in the oldest part of the city where you will visit the Xalteva Church and the old city walls. Throughout the excursion your guide will provide you with an informative and unique perspective of this beloved colonial city.

Overnight at Tribal Hotel (no meals included)

Get to know the spectacular sights outside of Granada on this full day tour. Depart from your hotel this morning and head over to Masaya Volcano National Park. Here you will get a chance to visit the Masaya Volcano, one of Nicaragua´s most active, and view the smoking crater from the top. Peruse the stalls of the market where you will see various forms of traditional Nicaraguan artwork from pottery to leather goods and textiles. Here you will have the opportunity to buy all kinds of souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Take a break for lunch at the romantic village of Catarina and enjoy the spectacular viewpoint over the huge crater lake of Apoyo. After lunch visit the village of San Juan del Oriente, famous for its ceramics, and learn the complex process involved in creating this traditional art form.

In the late afternoon, and just a short boat ride from the colonial town of Granada, Jicaro Island Eco Lodge is the country´s top nature resort located on a private island in the Granada Isletas of Lake Nicaragua. You will love your stay at this place with activities, wellness, such as yoga, and spectacular views of the Mombacho Volcano.

There are 9 private two story casitas. Each casita has lake views and is only a short walk from the pool, restaurant and wellness center. On the first floor you find a spacious living area and an outside deck. The bedroom is on the second floor. Ceiling fans keep the casitas cool. Each casita is raised above the ground - so the feeling is like living in a treehouse.

Overnight at Jicaro Lodge (Breakfast & Dinner)

Las Isletas consist of around 365 small islands where formed 20,000 years ago by a massive volcanic explosion! Today it is a unique place where prominent Nicaraguan have their vacation houses and a local fishing community makes its living. The nature is beautiful with lots of birdlife and amazing views of the volcanoes and Lake Nicaragua. Additional point of interest is the Spanish fortress-built a in the 17th Century to stop pirate attacks on the City of Granada! These serene and rustic islands will be visited by boat, showing you all its secrets! For this tour we pack a cooler with drinks that you can enjoy whilst observing the views. Towels will be available in the boat if you want to jump out and take a swim in the fresh and warm water of the big lake. After two hours of touring, head back to the lodge for an afternoon of rest.

Overnight at Jicaro Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

For wellness seekers, morning yoga classes are available on request and the spa overlooking the water offers a variety of treatments. We recommend the facial with the handmade coffee and sugar scrub!

Staying on an island does not mean one is trapped. Day excursions to Masaya Volcano, the Mombacho cloud forest, Granada and even Leon are easily arranged with the only added travel time being a pleasant 15 minute boat trip between the island and the dock.  Speak with your Travel Designer about arranging an additional excursion, if desired.

Overnight at Jicaro Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the small town of Nandaime, which is approximately 1h30min from Granada. Upon check-in, enjoy the intimate 8-room luxury that awaits you on this nature reserve, with stunning views of Mombacho Volcano.

Overnight at Nekupe Resort (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

All around Nekupe, exhilarating outdoor experiences await. Ranging from safari style adventures on ATV to dancing classes; from farming to a world class clay; there is something to intrigue every personality. A dedicated Ranger will be there to guide guests through all the possibilities available to them. Included activities are as follows:

• ATV Rides: Personal ATVs is Nekupe’s main method of transportation by which you may feel free to explore the entire property. We recommend the special off-road trail which takes you from our teak plantation through the forest to the beautiful Ochomogo River.

• Horseback Riding: Explore 1,800 acres of diverse land by roaming through the 40km of trails and get lost in the countless wandering paths beneath lush canopies of forest. Gallop through the precious teak plantation or run wild alongside the indigenous animals in Nekupe’s nature reserve. You will enjoy various microclimates and miles of the Ochomogo river, all within the safety of our property.

• Mountain Biking: Nekupe’s hour-long, 8-shaped circuit for mountain biking offers a unique birdwatching and nature contact experience perfectly suited for groups. Immerse yourself in nature while exercising and having fun!

• Daily Yoga & Mediation: Yogis have a special place at Nekupe. We offer two daily complimentary yoga classes at set times in the morning and afternoon. Expert yoga teachers are also available upon request. Our classes include Gentle Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Energizing Flow Yoga, Therapeutic, Joint Release Yoga, Intro to Meditation, Metta Meditation and Yoga Nidra Meditation.

• Birdwatching: With over 73 bird species, Nekupe is the ideal location for birdwatching. The property encompasses a diverse environment of microhabitats and niches, plus several manmade reservoirs. Nekupe’s local wildlife experts and trackers will enlighten you on the various exotic and rare tropical birds that reside within the property.

• Farming: Enjoy an in-depth look at Nekupe’s 12,916 square-foot garden, guided by one of our chefs or Rangers. You will discover the variety of cucumbers, beets, peppers, carrots, ginger, eggplants, tomatoes, an array of spices, and citrus tree plantations. Want to know more about farming? Ask any member of the staff and learn about how these items are organically grown.

• Ropes Course: Mentally and physically challenging, the Ropes Course consists of 10 team building activities. Experience this great group activity for personal development, leadership skills, team building, and family bonding.

Overnight at Nekupe Resort (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

In the morning, depart for a one-hour road transfer to the coast to San Juan del Sur to your ecolodge, the perfect destination for those who are looking for an adventurous experience, but do not want to miss out on luxury. Experience the spectacular beaches and the tropical flora and fauna. Nearly half of the property has been designated a Private Reserve. Through tree planting and environmental awareness, Morgan´s Rock helps defend this natural area against poaching and deforestation.

After checking-in, enjoy local dishes, culinary highlights and typical flavor of the region in the tastefully styled restaurant with a gorgeous ocean view or at the resort´s farmhouse. Thanks to a large working farm with cows, chickens, fruit and vegetable gardens, and even a sustainable shrimp farm, Morgan’s Rock sources roughly 60% of its food products from farming activities that take place right on the premises including an ocean to table concept. Guests are welcomed to visit the farm, where they can lend a hand collecting eggs or milking the cows, or simply kick back and enjoy a rustic breakfast cooked on the hearth by the lovely Denia.

Overnight at Morgan's Rock Hacienda and Eco Lodge (Breakfast)

Spend your day in your private plunge pool and terrace, perched on a cliff over the private beach. Also, take a short or long hike leading you to premier looking points to enjoy spectacular views. Or, ask your Travel Designer about arranging one of the following excursions (supplemental cost):

• Mangrove Kayaking: Explore the estuary and mangrove forest in one of the tandem kayak at sunrise or sunset, view exotic birds and experience some much deserved tranquility. The estuary is about 1.5 kilometers long with a plethora of unexplored nooks and a lush abundance of overhanging foliage to navigate through.

• Monkey/Sloth Quest: Our quest takes us into the jungle in a 4×4 safari truck seeking the 3 species of monkeys found in the Nicaraguan forest: Howler monkeys which can be heard from a mile away long, the shy spider monkeys, and the mischievous white faced Capuchins.

• Organic Farming: Learn about how organic agriculture finds the balance between a sustainable ecosystem while satisfying the demand for natural and healthy food. Next, you will experience the collection of vegetables and fruits.

Overnight at Morgan's Rock Hacienda and Eco Lodge (Breakfast)

At the scheduled time, you will begin your departure back to Managua International Airport for your departing flight home. Drive time is approximately 3 hours.

(Breakfast)

• 9 nights accommodation (based on double/twin occupancy)

• Daily breakfast

• All meals at Jicaro Lodge & Nekupe Resort

• All lodge-based activities at Nekupe Resort

• Scheduled guided touring as specified

• All ground transfers between airports and accommodations (internal flights not included)

• All entrance fees as mentioned on tour

• *Not included: gratuities, visas (if applicable), international or internal flights, meals and drinks not described above, items of a personal nature