Things to do in Catarina, Masaya Department: The Best Tours

May 5, 2022 Hector Krause

Discover the best top things to do in Catarina, Nicaragua including San Juan del Sur Shore Excursion: Private Masaya Volcano and Catarina Tour, 4-Days Tour in Colonial Nicaragua, Apoyo Lagoon, Masaya & Mombacho Volcanoes, Full Day Nicaragua Tour from Costa Rica, Day-Trip to Laguna de Apoyo, Private Apoyo Lagoon and Masaya Market, Discover the Masaya Highlights, Classic Tour , Masaya Volcano, Catarina overlook and Granada tour, Best of Leon and Granada *Private Tour*.

1. San Juan del Sur Shore Excursion: Private Masaya Volcano and Catarina Tour

Top Private Tours (San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua)
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Depart the San Juan del Sur cruise port to take a journey through the Masaya Volcano National Park. Spend 7-hours of your day observing the active volcano and touring a neighboring town, Catarina. Enjoy round-trip cruise port pickup and drop-off, as well as accompaniment by a private guide.

Inclusions: Private tour, Port pickup and drop-off, Professional guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Tourist Card (10USD/person) (To be paid at your entrance to Nicaragua)

2. 4-Days Tour in Colonial Nicaragua

Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport, 11 Carretera Norte, Managua 11072, Nicaragua Vive Travels
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

This is a 4 days - 3 nights circuit for lovers of history, cultures, and colonial views. In addition to visiting attractions such as León and the city of Granada, you will have the opportunity to visit emblematic places such as Avenida Hugo Chavez, Puerto Salvador Allende, Plaza de Revolucion. You can also visit the Masaya volcano, where the legend says it is one of the gates to hell.

Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, 3 nights accommodation, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Gratuities, Tours not detailed in the program.

Reviewed By MParker2

I booked the combo tour via web site (Viator), and paid for tickets. On the reservation form requested the local traveling company (Vive Travel) to contact me to finalize the details of transportation pick up. At the time of reservation, the web form indicated the local transportation would pick up at any private residence or selected hotel list in the San Jose area. After not hearing back from local touring company, contacted Viator, explained the situation. I was instructed to go to a specific hotel as suggested by Viator and was also told that they had made note with the local touring company to pick me up at that location by 5:00AM on the touring day. I was also given local touring company contact information via WhatsApp and phone # to call if required. Decided to drive two hours and stay at the local recommended hotel the night before tour. Checked into the hotel and reached out to local touring company via WhatsApp informing them of my location. WhatsApp confirmed that they read the message but the local traveling company did not respond back. Finally 8:00PM the night before the tour, I called Viator and informed them that I have had zero feedback from local touring company and was started to get concerned about the being picked up from the hotel. After one hour of phone call with Viator, I was told to go to the hotel lobby area and was assured that someone would be picking us up for transport. Was in the lobby before 5:00AM, and still no sign of transportation. Called Viator, and was told to wait till 6:00AM and call back again. 6:00AM still no sign of local transportation. Called Viator, got the refund, but could not believe the agent attempted to sell me another tour package. Seriously! Four calls to Viator, multiple attempts via email to local travel touring company, several confirmed WhatsApp messages and our planned day of going on several tours got completely abolished with significant disappointments. I hold Viator completely responsible for what happened and this is false advertisement on their behalf. Although they refunded my money, I would never ever book anything with them again. Book at your own risk. Don't expect too much and be ready for being disappointed.

3. Apoyo Lagoon, Masaya & Mombacho Volcanoes

Next Adventure Nicaragua
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

Nicaragua is known as The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes. It has two enormous water bodies and more than 10 active volcanoes that are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. In this day tour, you will visit three these colossi Volcanoes: Masaya Volcano (Volcán Masaya): Ranked as one of the most active in the world. Apoyo Lagoon (Laguna de Apoyo): It’s an extinct volcano’s crater, with a beautiful lagoon. Mombacho Volcano (Volcán Mombacho): This colossal and stunning volcano´s cloud forest offers impressive panoramic views and it is also the home of hundreds of orchids.

Inclusions: Bilingual Guide, Transportation, Crater Trail on Mombacho, Lunch, Apoyo Lagoon Lookout, Masaya Volcano Entrance

Exclusions: Tour Guide gratuity, Services not listed on the itinerary

Reviewed By jennifer m

Next Adventure Nicaragua exceeded every expectation we had! They created an unforgettable experience for myself and 2 friends. We only had 1 day in Granada and wanted to see as much as possible. NAN put together an itinerary for us that included the islets of Granada, Volcano Mombacho, Laguna de Appoyo and Masaya Volcano night tour. We were all so impressed with this itinerary that we decided to free up another day to do the other recommendation of volcano boarding Cerro Negro. NAN even helped us pick a hotel to stay at in Granada and booked it for us! NAN went above and beyond with every request we had. NAN arranged transportation pick up for us from San Juan Del Sur and our driver, Julio, and tour guide, Gustavo, were the best! Gustavo even brought us snacks which included homemade brownies! Gustavo is very charismatic and we had a lot of fun with him. He recommended that we go to masaya volcano a little earlier than the itinerary said to catch the sunset and he was right. He brought us up the mountain to the most amazing views. I am so happy we chose to do a custom tour with this company. This would have been very difficult to plan on our own. There are certain vehicles you need to use to go to the volcanos and NAN took care of all of that. They even had an additional tour guide, Marjorie, meet us when we went volcano boarding. Marjorie was so knowledgeable about all the rocks and minerals on the volcano and she took the most amazing photos/videos of us while we were boarding! Also the equipment that we used/wore while volcano boarding was very high quality and included gloves and a bandana which I don’t think many other companies include. We had the expectation that we would be carrying our own boards up the mountain but when we arrived it was already arranged for our boards to be carried for us which was a wonderful surprise! At first we were hesitant to book with this company since there were not a lot of reviews, but do not hesitate! This company will take care of all your needs and exceed every expectation!

4. Full Day Nicaragua Tour from Costa Rica

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, Hacienda, Provincia de Guanacaste, Pinilla, 50309, Costa Rica Native's Way Costa Rica
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.6 based on 106 reviews

Explore all of Nicaragua's most famous highlights all in one day from Costa Rica! You will see a dormant volcano crater, the active Masaya Crater, go shopping at the artisan markets, explore the colonial town of Granada, and go on a boat ride viewing the islets of Lake Nicaragua, and even get to feed monkeys!

Inclusions: Bottled water, Breakfast, Lunch, Hotel, Condo, or House pickup and drop-off, All taxes, fees and handling charges, National Park fees

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Uburoi

I actually went to two tours (also did Rio Tempisque) with Native's Way. Our guide Gustavo was friendly and very informative, telling us about the plants birds, and of course about the wonderful volcano fumaroles, mud puddles, etc. Gustavo was a good driver, and accommodated our need to have occasional bathroom or snack stops. One suggestion to Native Way would be to be a little more clear about what to bring along; we did not need a change of clothes after the hot spring dip, as there were changing room. I would definitely book again with these folks next time I vacation in Tamarindo.

5. Day-Trip to Laguna de Apoyo

International Tours Alliance

Venture out to one of the most magical places in Nicaragua, Laguna de Apoyo Natural Reserve. This outdoor activity will introduce you to the tranquility of this mystical location inside of an extinct volcano. Kayak, swim in volcanic mineral rich water or just relax at the waters edge.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Bottled water, Nicaraguan Lunch, Kayaking, Driver/guide, Local guide, Transport by air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, other than specified, Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By Miriamredford15

ITA gave me the experience of a lifetime and surrounded me with warm and welcoming people. The hotel made me feel like a queen, our activities gave me a sense of thrill, the food was delicious, and the overall atmosphere made me feel so accepted. With travel you sometimes say "Maybe ill come back again someday. Who knows." After jumping into this adventure, I KNOW it is a destination I will go back to. There are no "what ifs" or "maybes" for me. It was that memorable and life changing. ITA made sure of it with their amazing team of DOERS!

6. Private Apoyo Lagoon and Masaya Market

Bosa Tours & Travel

Colorful Masaya town and volcanic lagoon of Apoyo make a good mix to enjoy with friends or family. This tour includes time for souvenir shopping at the market, and the afternoon to relax in calm waters of this volcanic lagoon.

Inclusions: Access to the pier, Certified bilingual guide during the day, Hotel pickup and drop-off, National Park fees

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, Gratuities, Kayaks, Lunch

Reviewed By 19841913

The people at the BosaTour were amazing. We booked a special tour with pick up in Managua, visit Cerro Negro, and drop off in Popoyo. The team was super accommodating and top list of great photos to capture our adventure up the volcano. They even stopped on the side of the road for some fruit. I can’t recommend them enough.

7. Discover the Masaya Highlights

Granada, Granada, Granada Department Vapues Nicaragua Tours

Discover some of the famous areas of Masaya region that will show you nature, culture, history in one day. Share with the locals and learn about different artisans works, besides visiting an active volcano.

Inclusions: National Park fees, Lunch, Local guide, Pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Personal expenses

Reviewed By ana9166

A must do in Granada!! Take a chocolate drink, have a swim at the pool and finish with a fantastic chocolate massage:) Iliana is a great masseuse! I highly recommend the choco reflexology!

8. Classic Tour

Nahual Tours

Swimming and Volcanoes Visit: swim on a crater of more than 20 thousand years See lava 600 meters away.

Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Snacks, Kayak, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: WiFi on board, Use of Snorkelling equipment, Lunch, Alcoholic Beverages, Dinner

Reviewed By Alma J

Liars, disorganized, dirty, cramped, overpriced, and so rude it borders on abusive. I was left to wait alone at a dusty gas station in Rivas for over an hour because they forgot me. They had confirmed my reservation for a shuttle and told me a driver would be there with a sign with my name between 10 and 10:30am. I was at the gas station they told me to be at at 9:45 and finally at 10:45 I called to ask if the driver was still coming. I was told I would be called back. After 10 minutes no call. I call back and am told the driver passed by at 10 and didn't see me. A total lie as not only was I there 15 minutes before, I definitely stood out as a pale young woman with a giant backpack in a place where everyone else was a Nicaraguan man. He told me he could send a taxi to take me to Granada and then a shuttle to Leon. I was super disappointed as I specifically chose this company which cost more than the others because their route was direct and would get me there quicker. The taxi wasn't in great condition but it managed to withstand the breakneck speeds the driver was going in order to get me to Granada in time to catch the shuttle. Once we get to Granada the guy at the office tried to over charge me. I finally get on the shuttle which is filthy and cramped with not even enough leg room for me at 5'5 and the driver was the rudest person I've come across in Central America. He tried to avoid dropping me at my hostel which is part of the service and screamed at me in front of everyone when he didn't know where the hostel was even though I was showing it to him on Google maps. I finally got dropped off a block away from my hostel 2 hours later than expected and really rattled from the constant slamming of the breaks he did and the fact that he screamed at me and treated me like garbage. I'd rather he chicken bus over this. Don't give these crooks your money.

9. Masaya Volcano, Catarina overlook and Granada tour

Victor Castro

We take you to the most beautiful sightseeing in Nicaragua at the most competitve price, very knowleadgeable tour guide, bottle of water and beberage for each turist are included.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water, Soda/Pop

Exclusions: Lunch, Snacks, Alcoholic Beverages, Breakfast, Dinner, WiFi on board

Reviewed By johndoe202012

This shuttle service was offered by a very professional, kind, and trustworthy driver. I would say of all my travels throughout Central America, this driver was the kindest and most trustworthy. I would highly recommend to use this shuttle service anytime you visit Nicaragua.

10. Best of Leon and Granada *Private Tour*

León, Nicaragua Vamos Travel Nic

This is a private tour meant to accommodate your needs and schedule. Through email, we can work on an itinerary that's right for you. If you have any specific destinations you would like to visit, please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate your wishes. Enjoy of the best of Nicaragua in 3 Days. Let's visit the best two colonial cities in the country. Enjoy the landscapes, volcanoes adventure, lakes, lagoon and more! You will learn and enjoy the two oldest cities of Nicaragua and the best activities these tow cities offer, from sliding down on an active and young volcano to relax of a private boat tour in the largest lake of Central America.

Inclusions: Volcano Boarding goggles, glove, jumping suit , Entrance fees to the different activities and tours, Waters , Private transportation with AC all the time, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: alcoholic beverages, Lunch (You will need around 15 USD per lunch)

Reviewed By hudsoncrider

We wanted to experience as much as possible in the limited time we had in Nicaragua which is why we decided to book a tour with Vamos Travel Nicaragua. We wanted to see the country from a local’s perspective which is how we met Franklin, the owner of Vamos Travel Nicaragua Franklin does it all! From history, transportation, photography, and friend, it was so helpful to travel through Nicaragua with a local expert! Right away we knew we made the right decision.. It was a great feeling to have someone waiting for us at the Costa Rica / Nicaragua border. Vamos Travel Nicaragua crafts their tours to best experience the country's history, culture, and most importantly food. =) Our favorite experiences were volcano boarding, Masaya volcano and the León city tour. With more than 16 years of experience as a certified tour guide, Franklin is a walking encyclopedia of dates and did a great job of conveying the history and information in an engaging and interesting way! Vamos Travel Nicaragua is a master at customizing his tours to each of their customers. We told Franklin the things we wanted to see and he made sure that we were able to experience them. It was very helpful with our limited time to have his honest opinion on what was worth seeing and what we could skip. We really wish that we had time to explore the beautiful country of Nicaragua, but so thankful for our incredible experience with Vamos Travel Nicaragua!

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.