2 weeks in West Nicaragua
Nicaragua itinerary
Created by:
itinerary-hub
Published on:
Sept. 14, 2020
14 days
841 km
6 steps
This 2 week round trip will start and finish in the capital of Nicaragua, Managua. It will take you past beautiful colonial towns, majestic volcanoes and relax on the beach, party or go surfing in San Juan del Sur.
Step 1: Managua
1 days recommended
Managua
Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, is a city of contrasts. While it's not as popular with tourists as its neighbors like Granada or León, it offers a unique glimpse into the urban Nicaraguan life.
The city sits on the shores of Lake Managua, with the impressive Momotombo volcano visible in the distance. In 1972, a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the old city center, which is why Managua lacks the colonial charm of other Central American capitals. Instead, you'll find a spread-out urban area with modern buildings scattered among the remains of its past.
Plaza de la Revolución is one of the main historical spots, housing the ruins of the Old Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. The city also boasts the Salvador Allende Port, where locals gather in the evenings to enjoy food and music along the lakeshore.
Managua has a vibrant food scene, with local markets offering traditional Nicaraguan dishes like gallo pinto and vigorón. The city comes alive at night, especially in the Zona Rosa area, where you can find many restaurants and bars.
The warm tropical climate means it's hot year-round, with a rainy season from May to November. Despite its rough edges, Managua serves as an interesting gateway to understand Nicaragua's complex history and resilient spirit.
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Step 2: Granada
2 days recommended
Granada
Granada is a vibrant colonial city located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua. Founded in 1524, it's one of the oldest European-established cities in the Americas and it shows in the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture that lines its streets.
The city center features colorful buildings with terracotta roofs, impressive churches, and a bustling central park. The Cathedral of Granada and La Merced Church stand as testaments to the city's rich history and religious heritage. From La Merced's bell tower, you can get an amazing view of the city, lake, and the impressive Mombacho Volcano looming in the background.
Granada has a unique blend of Nicaraguan and Spanish cultures reflected in its food, music, and traditions. The city comes alive during festivals with parades, traditional dances, and street food vendors selling local delicacies like vigorón (yuca with pork rinds) and nacatamales.
Despite being a small city, Granada is full of life. Local markets offer a glimpse into everyday Nicaraguan life, while the Islets of Granada - hundreds of small islands formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago - create a unique natural attraction just offshore. The city serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders while offering a charming place to return to each evening.
Best hotels in Granada:
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Hotel Casa San Francisco (budget hotel)
Hotel Casa San Francisco is a delightful choice in Granada, housed in a beautifully restored colonial-style building. The rooms offer a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool to cool off after a day of sightseeing or relax in the serene garden courtyard with a refreshing drink.
Its central location puts you just steps away from Granada’s key attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it convenient for exploring the city. What sets this hotel apart is its outstanding staff, who are always ready to assist with tour bookings and dining recommendations.
Breakfast here stands out, featuring made-to-order dishes that go beyond the usual options. With its inviting atmosphere and thoughtful touches, Hotel Casa San Francisco is an excellent choice for experiencing the best of Granada.
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Hotel Plaza Colon (luxury hotel)
Hotel Plaza Colon is a beautifully restored hotel in the center of Granada, Nicaragua, right across from the main park. Its prime location makes it easy to explore the city’s colonial architecture and vibrant cultural spots. The building features traditional elements like a central courtyard and balconies overlooking the lively streets.
The rooms are comfortable and equipped with modern conveniences such as air conditioning and flat-screen TVs. Guests can unwind by the pool, a refreshing spot after exploring the city. The staff are welcoming and always ready to provide helpful tips on dining and activities in the area.
What sets Hotel Plaza Colon apart is its dedication to sustainability. Eco-friendly practices are in place, and local artwork is displayed throughout the hotel. Guests also praise the delicious breakfast included with their stay, making this a stylish and thoughtful choice for enjoying Granada.
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Hotel La Polvora (medium range hotel)
Hotel La Polvora in Granada is a delightful place with plenty of amenities for a comfortable stay. The rooms are spacious and equipped with air conditioning, providing a relaxing atmosphere. Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool, surrounded by vibrant gardens, making it a serene spot after a day of exploring the city.
The staff consistently deliver exceptional service, always friendly and ready to assist with helpful recommendations. A complimentary breakfast is included and highly praised by guests. You can enjoy your meal poolside or in the charming courtyard, adding a pleasant touch to your mornings.
Although slightly outside the main tourist area, the hotel is only a 10-minute walk from the central plaza. The quieter surroundings offer a calm escape from the lively city center. With its colonial-style architecture and thoughtful details, Hotel La Polvora creates a peaceful and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
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Best hostels in Granada:
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Casa Yoly Hostel (boutique hostel)
Casa Yoly Hostel is a welcoming and convenient spot in Granada, located just a short walk from the main square, restaurants, and shops. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, offering options for private accommodations or dormitory beds, making it a budget-friendly choice.
The staff are a standout feature, always friendly and eager to share tips on exploring the area. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast that, while basic, provides a good start to the day before heading out.
The hostel’s common areas are great for socializing and connecting with fellow travelers. It features a shared kitchen for those who prefer to cook their own meals and a small outdoor patio for relaxation. Casa Yoly Hostel is a relaxed and affordable choice for backpackers or anyone seeking a comfortable stay in Granada.
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Oasis Hostel (hostel)
Oasis Hostel in Granada is a relaxed and budget-friendly option, ideal for backpackers and travelers looking to connect with others. The hostel features a small pool for cooling off and several common areas where guests can unwind. There’s also an on-site bar offering affordable drinks, making it easy to socialize.
Conveniently located in the center of Granada, the hostel allows for easy exploration of the city on foot. The rooms are simple but clean, with options for dormitory or private accommodations. A complimentary breakfast is included, a helpful perk for those keeping an eye on their expenses. With its central location, friendly atmosphere, and practical amenities, Oasis Hostel is a great choice for travelers seeking an affordable and social stay in Granada.
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Hostel De Boca en Boca (party hostel)
Hostel De Boca en Boca in Granada is a vibrant place ideal for socializing and connecting with fellow travelers. The outdoor pool provides a refreshing spot to relax, and the hostel features several common areas for unwinding. The staff keep the atmosphere lively by organizing activities like themed dinners and bar crawls, encouraging guests to mingle.
Its central location makes it easy to explore Granada's colonial charm on foot. The rooms are clean and comfortable, offering options from shared dorms to private rooms with air conditioning. A delicious breakfast is included each morning to help guests start their day.
With its social vibe, helpful staff, and convenient amenities like the pool, Hostel De Boca en Boca is a great choice for solo travelers and groups. It's an inviting place to meet new people while enjoying all that Granada has to offer.
Step 3: Ometepe
3 days recommended
Ometepe
Ometepe is a breathtaking island formed by two volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua. This figure-eight shaped paradise is the largest volcanic island inside a freshwater lake in the world. The name Ometepe comes from the Nahuatl words ome (two) and tepetl (mountain), perfectly describing its distinctive silhouette dominated by Volcanoes Concepción and Maderas.
The island offers an incredible mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore black sand beaches, lush forests, natural springs, and ancient petroglyphs that date back thousands of years. The local indigenous communities have preserved many traditions that reflect the island's rich pre-Columbian past.
Ometepe's ecosystem is remarkably diverse. The humid forests of Maderas volcano contrast with the drier environment around Concepción. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of birds, monkeys, and other animals that call this place home. Meanwhile, the surrounding waters of Lake Nicaragua harbor rare freshwater sharks and other unique aquatic species.
Despite growing tourism, Ometepe maintains an authentic, laid-back atmosphere. Small villages like Moyogalpa and Altagracia offer glimpses into the everyday life of islanders, where agriculture remains a primary livelihood. Plantain plantations and coffee farms cover much of the fertile volcanic soil, providing the foundation for the local economy and delicious farm-to-table cuisine.
step 3: Ometepe
step 4: San Juan del Sur
Step 4: San Juan del Sur
3 days recommended
San Juan del Sur
San Juan del Sur is a charming beach town on Nicaragua's southwest coast. Originally a fishing village, it's transformed into a popular destination while still keeping its laid-back vibe. The horseshoe-shaped bay is lined with restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood or a cold Toña beer while watching the sunset.
The town is famous for its massive Jesus statue (Cristo de la Misericordia), standing 25 meters tall on a hill overlooking the bay. For perspective, it's smaller than Rio's Christ the Redeemer but still impressive – and the hike up offers stunning views of the coastline.
San Juan del Sur has become a surfing hotspot with nearby beaches like Maderas and Remanso offering waves for all skill levels. Many surfers from around the world have settled here, creating an interesting mix of local Nicaraguan culture and international influence.
The area has an interesting history too – back in the 1850s, San Juan del Sur was on the transit route for Americans heading to California during the gold rush. Travelers would land here, cross Nicaragua by stagecoach and boat, then continue by ship to California – much faster than going around Cape Horn.
Beyond the beach, you'll find a community focused on sustainable tourism, with yoga retreats, eco-lodges, and conservation projects working to protect local wildlife and coastlines.
Best hotels in San Juan del Sur:
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Chale's House Hotel (budget hotel)
Chale's House Hotel is a comfortable spot right in the center of San Juan del Sur, just a short walk from the beach and close to local restaurants and shops. The rooms are simple yet cozy, featuring air conditioning to keep you cool in the tropical climate.
A standout feature is the shared kitchen, which is clean and well-stocked, ideal for preparing meals or keeping snacks handy. There's also a pleasant terrace area where you can relax, read a book, or mingle with other guests.
The staff are friendly and always ready to offer helpful recommendations on where to eat, drink, or explore in town. It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay close to the action in San Juan del Sur, without any unnecessary extras.
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Eden on the Chocolata (luxury hotel)
Eden on the Chocolata is a tranquil getaway located just outside San Juan del Sur. Situated on a hilltop, this eco-friendly hotel offers breathtaking views of the jungle and coastline. The open-air common areas and pool create a peaceful space to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The rooms are basic yet comfortable, with private terraces that provide a perfect spot to take in the scenery. The hotel fosters a community atmosphere with yoga classes and vegetarian meals, bringing guests together in a laid-back environment. Though a bit remote, shuttle service to town is available for those looking to explore.
Eden on the Chocolata is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, wellness-focused stay in a beautiful natural setting. The friendly staff and calm atmosphere make it easy to disconnect and enjoy Nicaragua’s lush landscape away from the crowds.
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HC Liri Hotel (medium range hotel)
HC Liri Hotel is a cozy spot right on the beach in San Juan del Sur. This small hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, with only a few rooms that create a more personal experience. There’s a refreshing pool to relax by and a peaceful garden area, perfect for unwinding with a book in a hammock.
The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, serving a delicious breakfast every morning and offering free coffee throughout the day. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with some featuring balconies that offer ocean views. While it's in a quiet area, you're still just a short walk away from the town's restaurants and shops.
HC Liri is a fantastic place to stay while exploring San Juan del Sur. The beachfront location, relaxed vibe, and attentive service make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the beach atmosphere.
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La Santa Maria Resort (resort)
La Santa Maria Resort offers a stunning hillside location with breathtaking views of San Juan del Sur bay. The ocean and vibrant town below look especially beautiful during sunset. The resort has a relaxed atmosphere, with modern, spacious apartments and villas designed for a comfortable stay.
The infinity pool is a standout feature, providing the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail while enjoying the panoramic views. The resort is within walking distance of the beach and town center, though the peaceful surroundings might make you want to stay on the grounds longer. The friendly staff go above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable experience. This place captures the laid-back surf town vibe of San Juan del Sur, offering a serene and picturesque environment for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Best hostels in San Juan del Sur:
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Hostel SaltWater (boutique hostel)
Hostel SaltWater in San Juan del Sur is a relaxed spot just a short 5-minute walk from the town center, offering a peaceful vibe while still being close to all the action. The common areas provide stunning ocean views, adding to the laid-back atmosphere.
The hostel offers both dorms and private rooms, all kept clean and comfortable. The friendly staff is always ready to provide helpful tips about local activities. A highlight of staying here is the included breakfast, which is both tasty and filling—perfect for fueling up before a day of adventure.
The atmosphere strikes a nice balance with a social vibe that’s not too wild. Guests can enjoy the lounges, hammocks, or outdoor spaces to relax and chat with other travelers. It's a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay while exploring San Juan del Sur.
step 4: San Juan del Sur
step 5: León
Step 5: León
3 days recommended
León
León is one of Nicaragua's most fascinating cities with a unique blend of colonial architecture, revolutionary history, and vibrant culture. Founded in 1524, it was the capital of Nicaragua until 1851 and remains an intellectual and political hub.
The city is famous for its impressive Cathedral of León, the largest in Central America, where you can climb to the roof for spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes. The streets are lined with colorful buildings housing museums, art galleries, and universities that give León its reputation as Nicaragua's intellectual center.
León played a crucial role in Nicaragua's revolutionary history, and you can learn about this at the Museum of the Revolution where former revolutionaries sometimes guide visitors through exhibits. The city also has a thriving art scene, with the Art Center of the Ortiz Gurdián Foundation housing an impressive collection of Latin American and European works.
What makes León special is its authenticity - it's not as polished for tourism as some places, which gives it a genuine charm. The local food scene offers delicious Nicaraguan specialties at affordable prices in the many small restaurants and street vendors. And just outside town, you can find natural wonders like Cerro Negro volcano, where adventure seekers head for volcano boarding experiences.
Step 6: Somoto
2 days recommended
Somoto
Somoto is a small town in northern Nicaragua that's most famous for its magnificent canyon. This epic natural landmark, known as the Somoto Canyon, was only discovered by geologists in 2004, making it a relatively new addition to Nicaragua's tourist attractions.
The canyon itself is believed to be between 5 to 13 million years old, formed by the meeting of the Coco and Tapacali rivers. It's now a popular spot for adventurous visitors who come to swim, hike, and even cliff jump in its crystal clear waters.
Beyond the canyon, Somoto offers a glimpse into authentic Nicaraguan life. The town is known for its traditional rosquillas, a type of donut-shaped corn biscuit that's a local specialty. Many small family-owned bakeries around town still make them the old-fashioned way.
Somoto sits close to the Honduran border and has interesting historical significance as a trade route between the two countries. The town itself is relatively quiet, with friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere typical of small Nicaraguan towns. Its central plaza and church provide a good starting point for exploring the streets and getting a feel for local life. The surrounding countryside offers beautiful mountain scenery and rural communities worth exploring if you have time.