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Cultural Nicaragua

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8 Nights
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Colonial splendor in Central America

Spend time exploring the beautiful and historic cities of Nicaragua! Begin and end in the capital of Managua, with stops in Leon, Granada, Masaya Volcano National Park and San Juan del Sur. 

What's Included
  • Round-trip economy class airfare to Managua (MGA)
  • All airport and inter-city transfers
  • 1 night in Managua at Los Robles Hotel, or similar
  • Managua City Tour, including lunch in a local restaurant
  • Tour of the Old Leon Ruins (en-route to Leon)
  • 2 nights in Leon at the Hotel El Convento, or similar
  • Full-day Leon City Tour with Flor de Cana Rum Factory Tour, including lunch
  • Masaya Volcano and Artisan Market Tour, including lunch (en-route to Granada)
  • 2 nights in Granada at the Hotel Plaza Colon, or similar
  • Full-day tour of Colonial Granada (walking and by horse carriage), including Chocolate Cooking Class, Nicaragua Lake boat trip and lunch at a local restaurant
  • 2 nights in San Juan del Sur Town at Hotel Victoriano, or similar
  • 1 night in Managua at the Camino Real Hotel, or similar
  • Shuttle transfer to the airport (MGA)*
  • Breakfast daily
Not included (and payable in destination):
  • Tourist Card (purchased at airport) = $10.00 per person
  • Airport exit tax = $45.00 per person

*Please note the hotel shuttle runs every half-hour, beginning at 5:00 am. It takes approx. 5 minutes to get to the airport from the hotel. You must be at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to check in. Buffet breakfast is served at the airport starting at 6 am. If you prefer to eat at the hotel, a Continental Breakfast is available in the lobby from 5:00 am - 6:00 am.

Great Ways to Explore

  • Enjoy a Managua city tour taking you to all the capital city's highlights.

  • In Leon, see the house of Rubén Dario, the famous Nicaraguan poet.

  • Admire picture-perfect views from the summit of Masaya Volcano.

  • Tour the colonial grandeur of Granada by horse-drawn carriage.

  • End your vacation on the Pacific coast in the town of San Juan del Sur.

Package Overview

Explore the culture and history of Central America's largest county! Spend time hopping from city to city, experiencing world-class architecture, delicious cuisine, and dramatic natural wonders.

Your vacation begins and ends in the capital of Managua, where you'll tour the city's highlights and see modern Nicaragua at its best. You'll then continue to the city of Leon, a treasure trove of colonial churches, richly colored murals, and fascinating museums. 

From Leon, it's on to Granada, arguably Nicaragua's most picturesque city. Before you make it to the city, stop in the stunning Masaya Volcano National Park and get up close to an active crater! In Granada, enjoy a full-day excursion including a chocolate making class and boat ride. 

Your vacation ends in the idyllic town of San Juan del Sur on the Pacific coast. From beautiful beaches to the colorful town center, this is the perfect place to wrap up a culture-rich trip to Nicaragua.

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Show Detailed Itinerary

Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.

Package ID: PK-GC4P-SH-CN-MGA

Please note that some elements called out in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check "What's Included" above for full details on inclusions. As we all go through the recovery together, the fluid nature of this event means some venues and attractions may have restrictions or closures. Please check online resources close to the time of travel to better plan your own day-to-day itinerary.

Day 1. Welcome to Managua!

Say hello to Nicaragua! Upon arrival at Managua airport, you will be met by a Careli Tours representative holding a sign with your name. You will receive your complete itinerary and set of documents, then be transferred to your hotel. 

Settle into your accommodation, then find a local restaurant nearby to enjoy your first meal in Nicaragua. 

Transfer to Managua hotel

Check-in - Hotel Los Robles

Managua, Nicaragua
3 out of 5 stars

Showcasing colonial style and original antiques, Hotel Los Robles is a small luxury hotel in Managua. Just off the road to Masaya and close to the Metro Centro shopping center, the hotel offers a cosmopolitan experience that doesn't sacrifice privacy or style. The professional staff and welcoming atmosphere will ensure your stay is as memorable as your trip. The guestrooms surround a tropical garden with a peaceful fountain bubbling in the center. Enjoy spa services and high gastronomy on-site from the hotel's excellent facilities. 

Day 2. Managua - Leon

Wake up on your first full day in Nicaragua and enjoy a city tour of the capital. After your tour, return to your hotel, pick up your bags and depart for your second destination of Leon. On the way, stop at Leon Viejo and tour the ruins where the city was first founded in 1524. 

Transfer to Leon

Check-in - Hotel El Convento

Leon, Nicaragua
3 out of 5 stars

Founded in 1639, the San Francisco Convent has a long and rich history before it was converted into Hotel El Convento. Surviving centuries, El Convento has become a historic landmark to preserve Nicaragua's past. Boasting several categories of well-appointed guestrooms, the hotel offers spacious accommodations with modern amenities. Be sure to stop by Restaurante El Victoriano to sample the gourmet cuisine. 

Managua City Tour, including lunch in a local restaurant

Tour the city of Managua, the capital of Nicaragua since 1852. In the north part of the city is the old city center, destroyed by an earthquake in 1972. To the south is the more modern part of Managua where most of the development is happening.

In both areas, you’ll visit sites like the National Historic Park Loma de Tiscapa, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and the story behind national hero Augusto Cesar Sandino and the Somoza dictatorship. You’ll see the ruins of the old presidential palace, the monument to Simon Bolivar, the National Theater Ruben Dario, New Presidential House, Palace of Culture, and the future city center with its new metropolitan cathedral. End the tour with lunch at a local restaurant. 

Tour of the Old Leon Ruins (en-route to Leon)

En route to Leon, the second largest city in Nicaragua, visit Leon Viejo. Founded in 1524, the old city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1610 and abandoned until its discovery in the 1967. At this UNESCO-protected site, learn about the early history of the first capital city of Nicaragua. On the hill where the fort is buried, enjoy breathtaking views of the Momotombo Volcano and Lake Xolotlan. 

Day 3. Leon

Today, enjoy a full-day tour taking you through Leon, long considered the political and intellectual center of Nicaragua. In the second half of your tour, you'll visit a rum factory where you'll get to taste rum and take some home. 

Full-day Leon City Tour with Flor de Cana Rum Factory Tour, including lunch

Discover Leon on this full-day tour! Begin at The Lady of Grace Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Central America and a UNESCO World Heritage site. During a walking tour, you’ll get to know the historic murals that grace the city and understand the important role Leon has played in Nicaragua’s social, economic and political development. At the cathedral, climb to the roof and enjoy unmatched views of the city of Leon. After, visit the birthplace of Ruben Dario (the father of Modern Spanish Literature) and the “Ortiz Gurdian” Art Gallery known as one of the best private art galleries in Latin America.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to Flor the Caña Factory. Upon arrival, you’ll take part in guided visit where you'll learn the history of how sugar cane came to the Americas and the origin and development of rum worldwide. Witness the fascinating process to create rum, learn about the maintenance of the oak barrels, and see firsthand the impressive warehouses with hundreds of the oak barrels with 25-year-old rum.

Enjoy a tasting session of 18-year-old rum and walk through the Flor de Cana Rum museum showing the Pellas family business since 1890. Close your visit with a stop at the boutique where take home any of their high quality, versatile rums plus and other interesting souvenirs.

Day 4. Leon - Granada

Say goodbye to Leon as you transfer to your next destination, the beautiful colonial city of Granada. On the way, stop at Masaya Volcano National Park. Admire the flora and fauna and get up close to an active crater! 

Transfer to Granada

Check-in - Hotel Plaza Colon

Granada, Nicaragua
4 out of 5 stars

Located right in front of the main Plaza Granada with the Granada Cathedral in sight, the Hotel Plaza Colon makes it easy to access the sights of the city. Along with its wonderful location, the hotel also offers a pool, an on-site bar, a 24-hour front desk, assistance with tours and tickets, daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a lovely interior garden. Enjoy the open-aired hallways, air conditioned rooms, and friendly, informative staff ready to help and answer questions. 

Rooms are minimalist yet comfortable, and feature air conditioning, a flat-screen cable TV, a ceiling fan, a safe, ironing facilities, premium bedding, a minibar, and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Certain rooms also include a sitting area. The Hotel Plaza Colon is the only Hotel certified in sustainable practices by the Rainforest Alliance in the region, and is just 17 miles away from San Marcos. El Rosario is 22 miles away, while the Augusto C. Sandino Airport is 21 miles away, and Managua is 26 miles away.

Masaya Volcano and Artisan Market Tour, including lunch (en-route to Granada)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart on a private guided transfer from Leon to Granada. En route to Granada, visit Masaya Volcano National Park, the first national park in the country established in 1979. Upon arrival, witness all the influence that volcanic activities have had in the shaping of the zone including a beautiful volcanic lake known as the Masaya Lagoon.

Only ten minutes from the entrance is the environmental interpretation center, a museum where you can see a model of the park. See paintings by Nicaraguan artists, learn about the tectonic plates and volcanic regions of the planet and get to know the flora and fauna of this wildlife refuge. 

Continue to the summit of the volcano, where you'll walk a few steps to see the Santiago crater, active since 1946. This short visit to the crater is enough to appreciate the amazing active nature. Finally, visit the Masaya arts and crafts market for local ceramics, hammocks wood and leather souvenirs.

Day 5. Granada

Wake up rested and refreshed for your full-day tour of Granada including a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, a visit to a chocolate museum and a relaxing boat ride around the surrounding islands. 

Full-day tour of Colonian Granada (walking and by horse carriage), including Chocolate Cooking Class, Nicaragua Lake boat trip and lunch at a local restaurant

Enjoy a tour of the colonial city of Granada, founded by Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba in 1524. Situated near Mombacho volcano and the great lake of Nicaragua, the city was named after Granada in Spain. On this tour, you'll see colonial churches, narrow streets, large homes with beautiful indoor patios, and much more. You'll have a sightseeing tour by horse carriage, arriving at the main plaza for your walking tour of the surrounding area.

Continue with a Chocolate Cooking Class/Workshop. Everybody knows about Belgian, Swiss and French chocolate, but have you ever heard about Nicaraguan chocolate? Originally from Central America, the cocoa plant has an extraordinary history; it was one of the most important products for the Mayan and Aztec cultures, as well as other Central American cultures. The discovery of America led to the introduction of chocolate in Europe, transforming it into the product we all know today.

At the Chocolate Museum, follow the process of making chocolate from fermented organic cacao beans. Learn how to roast, winnow, grind, mix, conch, refine and mold! At the end of the two hour workshop, take home a sample of your very own handmade Nicaraguan chocolate. Finish the day with a relaxing boat ride around some of the islands, formed by the impressive Mombacho volcano. 

Day 6. Granada - San Juan del Sur

After breakfast, enjoy a transfer to San Juan del Sur, a town on Nicaragua's southwest coast. Settle into your accommodation, then spend the remainder of the day exploring on your own. Head to a beach or take a walk through town, admiring the colorful buildings along the way. 

Transfer to San Juan del Sur

Check-in - Hotel Victoriano

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
4 out of 5 stars

Located right on the beach, the Hotel Victoriano in San Juan del Sur offers stunning views and a historical stay. Set in a renovated building from the 19th century, the hotel is far from dated. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, a Victorian architecture and Gold-Rush history gallery, an on-site restaurant, a bar, room service, ticket and tour assistance, lovely spa treatments, and a garden.

Rooms are comfortable and feature a minibar, a safe, air conditioning, cable TV, a refrigerator upon request, complimentary bottled water, and a private bathroom, complete with hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms also have a balcony and sea views. Just a mile away is the Cristo de la Misericordia, and a little further than that is the bus station. Guests could choose to travel to Madera Beach, which is only 11 miles away, or Del Coco beach, which is 15 miles away. 

Day 7. San Juan del Sur

Enjoy a free day in San Juan del Sur! Consider taking a hike up to the Christ statue overlooking the bay of San Juan. Pay a small entrance fee to enter the chapel, then admire the breathtaking views from this perfect vantage point. 

Later today, you might want to head back into town or lay out on one of San Juan's beautiful beaches like Playa Maderas or Playa Marsella. End your day with a delicious Nicaraguan treat like quesillo, a thick corn tortilla stuffed with soft cheese, pickled onions and vinegar. 

Christ of the Mercy

Christ of the Mercy • San Juan del Sur

Day 8. San Juan del Sur - Managaua

Enjoy a final day in Nicaragua with a transfer from San Juan del Sur to your final accommodation in Managua. This is the perfect time to get any last-minute souvenir shopping, sunbathing, and exploring in! 

Transfer from San Juan del Sur to Managua

Check-in - Hotel Globales Camino Real Managua

Managua, Nicaragua
3 out of 5 stars

Hotel Globales Camino Real creates a bright and welcoming ambiance for all its guests. In close proximity to the Managua airport, Pharoh's Casino, and surrounded by the natural beauty of Nicaragua, the hotel is an ideal base for getting to know the area. Its reputation for excellent service and a highly trained staff is well-deserved. The property has tons of options to make your stay even better. Its 125 guestrooms offer all the amenities needed for a pleasant stay while the on-siteCasablanca Restaurant and lobby bar both offer refreshment and a chance to meet the other guests during your trip.

Day 9. Depart Nicaragua

Your Nicaragua adventure ends today. At the appropriate time, you'll be transferred back to Managua airport for your flight home. 

Transfer to Managua airport (MGA)

Fly home!

We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.

Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.

Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.

Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.

Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.

Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.

Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.

Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.

Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to /travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy. 
Package Overview

Cultural Nicaragua

History & beauty!

Granada First spot   
Managua, Nicaragua

Hotel Los Robles

A boutique hotel in the lush heart of town

Hotel Los Robles • Exterior Next spot   On a full map
Leon, Nicaragua

Hotel El Convento

Reconstructed convent in Leon

Hotel El Convento • Lobby Next spot   On a full map
Granada, Nicaragua

Hotel Plaza Colon

Explore the main plaza of Granada with ease from your hotel

Hotel Plaza Colon Next spot   On a full map
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Hotel Victoriano

Wander the breezy shore front visible from your hotel, or unwind overlooking the water

Hotel Victoriano Next spot   On a full map
Managua, Nicaragua

Hotel Globales Camino Real Managua

A cheery property in lush surroundings

Camino Real Managua Start over On a full map

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