Must-see itineraries in Nicaragua

Classic Nicaragua tour: volcanoes, colonial cities and lakes

The classic Nicaragua tour combines the country’s must-see highlights in an easy loop that can be done in 10 to 14 days. It generally includes Managua, the colonial city of León with its active volcanoes (such as Cerro Negro), Granada and its islets on Lake Nicaragua, the Apoyo lagoon, and the island of Ometepe. This type of itinerary is perfect for a first trip and lets you discover Nicaragua’s history, nature and culture.

Nicaragua nature & relaxation tour: between the Pacific and the Caribbean

This tour focuses on tropical landscapes and beaches. It often starts with a few days in the San Juan del Sur area (Pacific coast), before heading to the Corn Islands on the Caribbean coast via Bluefields. It may include a stop at Apoyo lagoon or Ometepe island for swimming and kayaking. It’s an ideal option for travellers seeking calm, nature and relaxing moments by the water.

Off-the-beaten-track Nicaragua tour: the North and the Río San Juan

For curious travellers—or those returning to Nicaragua—an itinerary focused on the north of the country (Estelí, Matagalpa, Somoto) and the Río San Juan region offers a more rural and eco-friendly immersion. Hikes through coffee plantations, swims in canyons, wildlife watching in the Indio Maíz reserve: this tour highlights local encounters, mountain scenery and lesser-visited areas.