Granada, Nicaragua, is a captivating colonial city situated on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, renowned for its vibrant Spanish architecture and cobblestone streets. It serves as a central point for experiencing both rich historical landmarks and diverse natural attractions, including active volcanoes and serene crater lakes.
Calle La Calzada, a vibrant pedestrian street, is a primary social hub in Granada, offering numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars that become lively with music and dancing in the evenings. Additionally, many hostels, such as Oasis Hostel and De Boca en Boca, actively cultivate a social atmosphere, providing a welcoming environment for travelers to connect and participate in organized activities.
Top 5 Things to do in Granada
Activities in Granada involve exploring its vibrant colonial core and venturing out to diverse natural attractions like active volcanoes, serene crater lakes, and unique islets.
1. Explore Colonial Granada and Climb Iglesia La Merced Bell Tower
Wander through Granada's colorful cobblestone streets, admiring its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The heart of the city, Parque Central, is a lively hub surrounded by historic buildings. A visit to the iconic bright yellow Cathedral is essential. For a panoramic perspective, climb the bell tower of Iglesia La Merced, offering 360-degree views of the city's rooftops, Lake Nicaragua, and the distant Mombacho Volcano. One can also explore the bustling Mercado Municipal for an authentic glimpse into local life, observing vendors and daily routines.
Cost: Exploring the city center is free. Entry to the Iglesia La Merced bell tower costs approximately $1 USD. A self-guided walking tour is free, while guided tours may be tip-based or have a set fee.
Transport: All mentioned sights within Granada's city center are easily accessible by walking.
2. Witness Lava at Volcán Masaya National Park
Experience the surreal sight of bubbling lava within the Santiago crater of Volcán Masaya, one of the few active volcanoes where you can look directly into the crater. A visit during the evening is highly recommended to fully appreciate the glowing lava against the night sky. While tours are popular, it is also possible to visit independently.
Cost: A guided tour typically costs around $25 USD, which usually includes transportation from Granada and the park entrance fee. If traveling independently, the park entrance fee is approximately $10 USD.
Transport: Volcán Masaya is about 40 minutes by vehicle from Granada. Tours provide direct transportation. Taxis can be hired for independent travel.
3. Boat Tour or Kayaking on Las Isletas de Granada
Embark on a tranquil boat tour or a more active kayaking excursion through the 365 volcanic islets scattered across Lake Nicaragua. These islets, formed by an ancient eruption of Mombacho Volcano, are home to lush plant life and diverse wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species. Many tours include a stop at Monkey Island to observe the resident primates.
Cost: Boat tours generally cost around $25 USD per couple or $20 USD per person for group tours. Kayaking tours are also available, with varying prices depending on the operator and duration.
Transport: Boats depart from Puerto Asese, located at the eastern end of Calle La Calzada. Taxis can take visitors to the port from the city center.
4. Relax at Laguna de Apoyo
Escape the city heat by spending a day at Laguna de Apoyo, a beautiful volcanic crater lake known for its warm, crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming. Many hotels and hostels around the lagoon offer day passes, providing access to their facilities, including water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Cost: Day passes to resorts on Laguna de Apoyo typically cost around $6 USD.
Transport: Laguna de Apoyo is approximately a 30-minute drive from Granada. Taxis or organized tours are common ways to reach the lagoon.
5. Hike Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve
Explore the cloud forest and diverse ecosystems of the inactive Mombacho Volcano. The reserve offers several well-maintained hiking trails, ranging in difficulty, with opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna. From the summit, one can enjoy expansive views of Lake Nicaragua and Granada. A scientific lab and a museum are also located at the top.
Cost: Entrance fees apply for the reserve. Canopy (zip-line) tours, which often include transport, entrance, and a coffee tour, can cost about $50 USD per person. Transportation to the volcano costs around $20 USD for a round trip.
Transport: Mombacho Volcano is about 10 kilometers south of Granada. Public buses towards Nandaime can drop visitors at the El Guanacaste intersection (around 10 Cordobas), where tuk-tuks are available to take you to the reserve entrance. Taxis and tours also offer direct transport.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
