Top Things to do in Granada
Top 10 Day Trips from in Granada, Granada Department
Drawn by year-round warm weather, colonial-era architecture and the freshwater Lake Nicaragua, travelers from around the world are flocking to Granada. Eco-tourists will love visiting the dormant Mombacho volcano, sailing on the lake and ziplining through the trees. Fans of spa treatments and shopping will find plenty to do, too.
Restaurants in Granada
1. Mombacho Volcano Hike and Zipline adventure from Managua
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Visit the Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve on this day trip from Managua. Mombacho is near the city of Granada and is 1344 meters high. The Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve is one of 78 protected areas of Nicaragua. Mombacho is an extinct volcano which last eruption occurred in 1570. The highest regions of the volcano is home to a cloud forest. After the hike, get ready for more excitement and zipline through the rain forest over 15 platforms.
Inclusions: Bottled water, All activities, Driver/guide, Tour escort/host, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
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!
2. Volcanoes Full Day
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Nicaragua is known as the land of volcanoes ... Discover these 3 volcanoes (Volcano Mombacho, Apoyo Lagoon, Masaya Volcano) in one day
Inclusions: Transportation, Guide, Lunch in Apoyo Lagoon, Kayaks, stand up paddle boards, life jackets.
Exclusions: Drinks
Reviewed By stevencP6567CS
I needed to get to San Juan del Sur from Colorado. With no U.S. airline carriers flying into Managua, my only reasonable way was to fly Denver to Liberia, Costa Rica and then cross the land border into Nicaragua. I contacted Welcome to Nicaragua and worked with Pablo Lorenzen to arrange the necessary ground transportation. Two transfers: one from Liberia, C.R. to the border and another one from the Nicaragua border to San Juan. Both transfers were flawless. My first driver (Norman) greeted me at the Liberia airport and assisted with my luggage (I was traveling heavy with 140 pounds of supplies for my condo in San Juan) and we had a pleasant drive to the border. He even had good wifi in his vehicle! VERY professional. Norman assisted me with my excessive luggage across the border and met my next driver Michael who drove the second leg of the trip from the border to San Juan. All in all an extremely smooth and enjoyable trip. I'd recommend Pablo and Welcome to Nicaragua for private transfers as well as the many other services they offer. 5 Star rating all the way!!
3. Apoyo Lagoon, Masaya & Mombacho Volcanoes
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. Private -Full day tour: Granada City + Boat ride+Handicraft Market+Lava Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Live this eco colonial and volcanic adventure enjoying 3 tours paying only for one. Give yourself the luxery of having your private local guide who is knowledgeable, fluent in English who also provides a personal approach and have safe private transportation. Explore the islets and the majestic colonial architecture of the city and feel the adrenaline of taking a stuning picutre with the orange color of the lava in the background at the active volcano in Masaya. *We follow WHO guidelines for covid 19 Activities: Picture taking /Bird watching/Nature tour Boat ride on lake Granada/Nicaragua ( you get to actualluy get off in one of the islets to visit the historic san pablo fortress) Walking tour downtown/hall of churches and chocolate museum. Visit to La merced church and its view point from bell tower. Lunch at la calzada street ( not included). Visit to Masaya volcano at night. ( take breath taking pictures on the top of the hill with the lava in the background.( Sunset beholding)
Inclusions: Boat Tour ride, Hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, Tour guide and driver, Walking tour in the city of Granada
Exclusions: Entrances fees to some churches., Food and drinks, Masaya volcano entrance fee is not included, Gratuities
Reviewed By daniellegF7328YB
I had so much fun. It was me and bae and it was great bc it’s a private tour so we could get to know each better with less distractions. Our tour guides were sweet and patient. I love taking pictures so they waited whenever I wanted to stop for photo ops. The chocolate factory was delicious. The lake was beautiful. The town was colorful and the volcano was crazy. Although I thought we would get a closer view like how I’ve heard it described in Hawaii. But I still could see the lava with their provided binoculars and they provided a selfie stick!! I wish I could remember my tour guide name but I a picture of him!
5. Discover Nicaragua and Colonial Granada Day Trip
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Granada is located south of Managua on the edge of Lake Nicaragua. Founded in 1524, Granada is considered one of the oldest cities in America. The architecture of Granada is a romantic combination of colonial houses with baroque neoclassical churches, which makes it the jewel of Nicaragua. For many years, Nicaragua has been unknown as a tourist destination. Today you have the opportunity to visit this new tourist attraction and discover the beauty of this country, its people, its lakes and its active volcanoes. Experience one of the oldest colonials and colorful cities in Central America: Granada. Its original architecture makes you go back in time.
Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Tour Guide, Tour operate with a minimum of 3 travelers, Tour operate with a minimum of 3 travelers (if is less than 3 will depends of our availability)
Exclusions: Gratuities, Don't include tour in Volantas in Granada, Souvenirs
Reviewed By 926RonS
The place didn't disappoint. The numerous waterfalls and trail was great experience. Definitely worth-visiting.
6. Granada Isletas and City tour
Overall Ratings
3.7 based on 3 reviews
Go back to nature and enjoy your private boat tour with a bilingual local guide for about 1 hour. *We follow WHO guidelines for covid 19*.Live the adventure and meet a cute family of monkey in one of the islets, get off the boat and learn about the fortress San Palo built more than 250 years ago. See birth life on the islands and take a wonderful picture from the best view of Mombacho volcano. the father of the 365 islets. Visit the city of Granada and its main cathedrals so you learn about the Spanish colonization and its majestic architecture. Have a free taste of a special chocolate drink at the Chocolate museum and discover the real history of chocolate.
Inclusions: Hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, Tour guide and driver, Boat Tour ride, Walking tour in the city of Granada
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Entrances fees to some churches.
Reviewed By daniellegF7328YB
I had so much fun. It was me and bae and it was great bc it’s a private tour so we could get to know each better with less distractions. Our tour guides were sweet and patient. I love taking pictures so they waited whenever I wanted to stop for photo ops. The chocolate factory was delicious. The lake was beautiful. The town was colorful and the volcano was crazy. Although I thought we would get a closer view like how I’ve heard it described in Hawaii. But I still could see the lava with their provided binoculars and they provided a selfie stick!! I wish I could remember my tour guide name but I a picture of him!
7. Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve Adventure with Ziplining and ATV Activities
Start with the canopy an activity full of adrenaline in the forests of the Mombacho Volcano across 15 platforms of wood and fiberglass, 6 canopys a Superman, a set of boomerang, Tarzan swing a Spider-Man and a vertical drop in rappelling? We assure you that all these activities have high quality equipment and expert guide. After all that, stabilize your adrenaline and go up the volcano on an ATV and Explore with a walk for thirty minutes virgin rain forests and cloud forests of the Mombacho Volcano to see for yourself why this reserve is widely regarded as the most beautiful landscape of Nicaragua. You will have the opportunity to enjoy moments of peace with nature and incredible views of both the city of Granada and the stunning islands of Lake Nicaragua. It is located 10 Km. from the city of Granada. It has about 50 species of mammals, 174 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles and 750 species of flora.
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Lunch, canopy protection equipment, Bottled water, All activities, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: TIPS
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.
8. Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve and Lake Nicaragua Tour from Managua
Hike around the mist-and-jungle-shrouded crater of Mombacho Volcano, explore island-filled Lake Nicaragua and enjoy lunch in the colonial city of Granada (additional cost) in one convenient tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guide, private air-conditioned car and boat transportation, entry fees and snacks included.
Inclusions: Snacks, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private air-conditioned transportation, Boat ride
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch in Granada, Gratuities
9. Las isletas Boat Tour in Granada
Delight a marvelous boat ride around Las Isletas de Granada, with amazing views towards Mombacho Volcano and an insight into Lake Cocibolca wildlife. A breathtaking experience.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Local guide, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
Exclusions: Food and drinks, 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!
10. Treasure Of Nicaragua
The trip begins early in the morning to avoid lines while crossing the border. Pick up is at 5:00 am. Always carry your passport and travel itinerary with you. Once crossed the border we will be visiting one of the most active volcanoes in Central America: the Masaya Volcano. We will also make a stop at the homonymous local town characterized by its excellent pottery and souvenir markets. Our next stop is Granada: a colorful and vibrant colonial city founded by the the Spanish in 1524. Here we will see the main church – known simply as “Catedral” – and the Plaza de España, where you can take in magnificent views of the Nicaragua Lake. After lunch, we will go on a relaxing boat tour on this magnificent lake and discover some of its small islands where many monkeys live. After the boat tour we will have a little free time to shop in the lovely historical city and take pictures, then head back to Costa Rica, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Inclusions: Local taxes, Breakfast, Lunch, All activities, Driver/guide, Port pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Reviewed By Robert J
my family and i used this transport its was very fast and the driver it was very humble and kind the costa rica roads are very difficult to transit
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