Colonial Cruise

"Nicaragua"

Leon - Nicaragua This is the perfect journey for those with little time to visit Nicaragua and willing to know more about the culture, the history and the nature of this country. This journey includes the visit of the country's most significant colonial cities, active volcanoes and the to some of Lake Nicaragua's most beautiful islands. After such an overview, sure you will be back sooner than you think!
Granada: Very centrally located, this was the first city founded in Nicaragua by the Spanish in 1524. Here, charming colonial buildings, churches and monuments in the Baroque style alternate with those of the Renaissance. Granada is a "must" when visiting Nicaragua.
Leon: For over 200 years, this city was the capital of Nicaragua until it was changed to Managua in 1851. Along with Granada, its rival city, it served as the country's political, military, cultural and religious centre. The architecture in Leon reflects the city's colonial past, which is best represented by its churches and houses. The Metropolitan Cathedral is considered to be the most prominent colonial structure in all of Central America.
Leon Viejo: was founded in 1524 by conquistador Hernandez de Cordoba as the first capital of Nicaragua. After an earthquake and a foreboding volcano, the fearful population decided to move 60 Km to the North, where Leon is located today. Now declared a historic site by UNESCO, the ruins show an important piece of Nicaragua's past. North Pacific Zone
The Isletas: This beautiful archipelago of 365 islands of volcanic origin in Lake Nicaragua is just off shore of Granada. Created by an ancient eruption caused by the Mombacho Volcano, the Isletas are now covered by tropical vegetation, and home to many tropical species, especially birds.
Managua: The actual capital of Nicaragua, has all the standard facilities for international travel/ business man, including quality hotels, fine restaurants and a state of the art convention centre. Due to the earthquake in 1972, the old city centre and the new centre are a stylistic mix of buildings. To the north is Lake Managua and sparkling volcanic lagoons such as Asososca, Xiloa and Apoyeque surround the city.

Granada - Nicaragua

DAY 1: Managua - Granada
Drive from Managua to the historic and oldest city on the American continent, Granada. Afternoon at leisure to stroll the streets admiring the architecture, visiting the most important monuments and the atmosphere of this glorious colonial city. Overnight at the famous Hotel Alhambra(***), an old colonial monument.(D)

DAY 2: Granada - Las Isletas - Masaya Market
After a guided visit of this old colonial city, excursion to Masaya Volcano National Park, followed by a tour of the town of Masaya and its colourful indigenous market overflown with woven hammocks, wood carvings, leather goods, famous hemp tapestries, embroidered blouses and many other unique handicrafts making it the best shopping destination in the country. On the way back to Granada, we stop at Catarina to have lunch and enjoy tremendous views over Laguna Apoyo, Masaya Volcano and Granada.
In the afternoon, we sail Nicaragua Lake to the romantic and tropical "Isletas" Archipelago, a beautiful archipelago of 365 islands of volcanic origin just off shore Granada. Created by an ancient eruption caused by the Mombacho Volcano, the Isletas are now covered by tropical vegetation, and home to many tropical species, especially birds. Return to Granada and overnight at Hotel Alhambra. (BL).

DAY 3: Granada - Managua - Leon Viejo - Leon
Las Isletas - Lake Nicaragua - Nicaragua Today is devoted to both the old and new Managua, Nicaragua's capital city, followed by a visit of the "old" Leon founded in 1524 and declared a few years ago by UNESCO a "World Heritage Site" as a symbol of Spanish conquest.
Then, in Leon, Nicaragua's other historic capital city we enjoy a walking tour thought the colonial, streets and visit the most popular museums and monuments. Overnight in Leon at Los Balcones Hotel(**). (BL)

DAY 4: San Jacinto Hot Springs - Managua
Following an hearty breakfast and an excursion to the hot springs and fumarols of San Jacinto, we drive back to Managua.(B)

The order of the excursions may be changed depending on local conditions and the participant imperatives.

This journey can start or end in Penas Blancas on the Costa Rican border. Inquire for prices

Rated: Easy


Tour Tariff - Private Departures
N° of Participants 2 3 4 SGL Supp.
USD $ 401 $ 388 $ 325 $ 63
EUR € 333 € 322 € 269 € 52
GBP £ 224 £ 217 £ 182 £ 35
(*) Price last updated on 09 February 2005. Current price may vary due to elements out of our control, so please always check by sending us a
quotation request
(**) Discount for larger groups
(***) Upgrade in first class hotels available

Included: All transfers and transports, entrance fees, Lake cruise, accommodation in double room with private bath, specified meals, hotel taxes, bilingual expert guide

Not included: other meals, drinks, tips

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