Active Nicaragua
With the world’s greatest concentration of inland waters, plentiful rain forest and a string of striking volcanoes, Nicaragua is considered one of the next hot adventure destinations. Join us hiking, kayaking and sailing in this lush wonderland rich with colonial and indigenous history before the rest of the world discovers this place of striking beauty and fascinating culture. Nearly one-fifth of Nicaragua is forest reserves filled with toucans, parrots, monkeys and iguana in a land of more than 50 volcanoes. We’ll swim in the warm waters of one extinct crater and hike around the steaming Crater Santiago, where green parakeets roost above smoldering lava. Our travel takes us to a native artisan market and authentic highland villages and to historic León and Granada, where brightly painted colonial homes reflect one of the oldest European settlements in the Western Hemisphere. Relaxation matches exhilaration as we kayak the bird-rich Archipiélago de Las Isletas, a chain of 354 islands; visit the sweet beaches along the sweeping half moon bay of the little fishing village of San Juan del Sur and sail all day along the beautiful Pacific coast – all part of Central America’s best-kept secret.
Important Notice: Day 1 is the day you should plan to arrive at the meeting point for the trip. This may require departing your hometown one or more days in advance and traveling on an overnight flight.
Active Nicaragua Itinerary:
-
Day 1
Your trip begins today in Managua, Nicaragua. Arrive in Managua by 1:30pm. We meet at the airport and take a private transfer north to the colonial capital of León, considered the cradle of Nicaraguan culture. After checking into the hotel in León’s historic center, we’ll enjoy a city tour and learn about its fascinating history. Founded in 1610, León is full of intellectual vitality and artistic tradition. León, with a dozen colonial period churches, boasts Nicaragua’s oldest university, its only medical school and several world-famous poets. We’ll enjoy a welcoming dinner bound to showcase Nicaragua’s fresh produce. Driving: 2 hours, Walking city tour: 2-3 hours. Dinner included.
-
Day 2
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer by 4-wheel-drive vehicle to the slopes of the active Cerro Negro Volcano. Our hike on this surreal black sand and rocky terrain provides us with a view of the volcano’s smoking interior. After slip-sliding down the west face of the cone to the crater lake of El Tigre, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and a very special treat, swimming in the warm waters of this extinct volcano. We return to León for the night. Driving: 2.5 hours. Hiking: 2.5 hours, elevation gain of 500 feet. Breakfast and lunch included.
-
Day 3
We drive south to the active cone of the Masaya Volcano National Park, which was established in the mid 1970s as Nicaragua’s first national park. Our hike takes us around the 5-crater complex, including the steaming Santiago crater. Expect to see snakes and other park reptiles on our hike on the Sendero Los Coyotes as we pass through dry tropical forest. Then we drive 30 minutes to historic Granada, founded in 1524 and considered Nicaragua’s most attractive city with brightly colored buildings and small cafes. Our lodging is at a colonial hotel. Driving: 3 hours. Hiking: 3 hours, rolling terrain. All meals included.
-
Day 4
Another breakfast at the hotel before we’re off to the 85°F waters of what’s considered the hemisphere’s grandest rain-formed lake, Lake Nicaragua, a kayaking paradise that is the second-biggest lake in Latin America. It is known locally as Cocibolca, which means “sweet sea.” We’ll kayak around the Las Isletas Archipelago. Look for mango trees, a popular eating fish called guapote and the only freshwater sharks in the world. Next, we head to the east face of the dormant Mombacho Volcano for a high canopy tour set amid a working coffee plantation. Soaring among the treetops above the deep green of coffee plants, we’ll have a bird's eye view of tropical flora and century old trees. We return to Granada for lodging. Kayaking: 2 ½ hours. Driving 1½ hours. Zip-line canopy tour: 1½-hour. Breakfast and lunch included.
-
Day 5
We take the ferry from San Jorge to the island of Ometepe, which was formed by two volcanoes, Concepción, which rises 4,430’ and is a perfect cone shape, and Maderas, which is 3,833’ above sea level. You may see orchids and plantain groves as we drive around Concepción to Santo Domingo Beach, where we’ll have lunch at the beach. Want more action? You can walk along the beach or horseback ride in the afternoon. Our lodging tonight is lakefront cabins, and we’ll dine in the private home of islanders. Driving: 2 ½ hours. Ferry ride: 1 hour. Horseback riding: 3 hours. All meals included.
-
Day 6
Our 4x4 takes us to the base of the Maderas Volcano for about a 7-hour hike as we climb in virgin cloud forest to the misty summit’s crater lake where we’ll have a backpack lunch. We’ll visit ancient pre-Columbian petroglyphs at El Porvenir before we return to Santo Domingo. Driving: 45 minutes. Hiking: 6-8 hours, elevation gain of 3,750 feet, easy at first; steeper, muddy, possibly slippery toward the top. All meals included.
-
Day 7
We take the ferry from Moyogalpa to the mainland and have lunch in Rivas. Here we can see a statue of Chief Niqueragua, reputed to be a highly intellectual indigenous king, on the site where it is believed the first contact was made between the Spanish Conquistadors and native peoples in 1523. We’ll drive on to the sweeping half-moon bay at San Juan del Sur, a stopping off place for Gold Rush-minded Americans as they sailed from New York to San Francisco in the 1850s. The afternoon is at our leisure to stroll along the beach and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this tranquil fishing village. Driving 1 ¼ hours; Ferry 1 hour. All meals included.
-
Day 8
Spending a full day sailing along the Southern Pacific coast, we’ll swim and beach comb in hidden coastal bays and have a gourmet BBQ for lunch on a deserted white sand beach. You might want to sample the rum punch at the open bar. Dinner will be in El Timón. All meals included.
-
Day 9
After spending another lovely morning in San Juan del Sur, we transfer north to Managua with a stop to shop at the restored 19th-century Masaya outdoor artisan's market. Lodging will be in the heart of the capital city's new restaurant district, where our farewell dinner includes a dance show. Driving 2.5 hours; All meals included.
-
Day 10
We have breakfast at the hotel before we drive about 20 minutes to the airport for our flights home, ending our visit with Nicaragua’s friendly people and vibrant culture. Breakfast included.
Although we will do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather and terrain conditions.
All accommodations; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; transportation within Nicaragua; group arrival and departure transfers; kayaks and related gear; local English-speaking guides and entrance fees to parks as indicated.
Airfare to Nicaragua; 2 dinners; alcoholic beverages or soft drinks; guide gratuities; laundry fees; excess baggage charges or insurance of any kind.
If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on the trip itinerary. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee which is half of the full single supplement. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single rooms available.
Nicaragua enjoys an average temperature of 80°F year round. Humidity averages 65%. There are two seasons, green and dry. The green season is from mid-May to mid-November, the dry season from late-November to early-May. Rain during the green season is normally limited to short and powerful bursts with longer showers at night. The hottest time of year is at the end of the dry season, from March to May, while the coolest period is from October to January.
This trip is rated Moderate [3]. It contains a variety of activities ranging from easy [2] to moderate plus [3-4] hikes, kayaking and swimming. All participants should be in good physical condition and know how to swim. A regular exercise regimen consisting of walking and hiking and paddling/swimming (if possible) is highly recommended beginning at least 2-3 months prior to departure. The better shape you are in, the more you’ll be able to enjoy all that this adventure has to offer.
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Active Nicaragua
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary.
Weather
Nicaragua enjoys an average temperature of 80°F year round. Humidity averages 65%. There are two seasons, green and dry. The green season is from mid May to mid November; the dry season from late November to early May. Rain during the green season is normally limited to short and powerful bursts with longer showers at night. The hottest time of year is at the end of the dry season, from March to May, while the coolest period is from October to January.
Gear Checklist
- Valid passport
- Airline tickets
- Duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase (wheels and retractable handle are fine) sturdy and large enough to hold clothing and gear
- Passport security pouch or belt
- Daypack
- Luggage tags and luggage locks
- Lightweight, waterproof, breathable rain jacket (or poncho)
- Lightweight, waterproof, breathable rain pants
- Lightweight hiking boots or trail shoes, broken in (flexible but tough soles; breathable and quick- drying is a plus)
- Sandals/water shoes for kayaking, sailing, and the beach
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight, casual, easily washable items for city/evening wear or when traveling
- Windbreaker
- Lightweight fleece or synthetic top
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeve shirt
- Hiking shorts, quick-dry
- Hiking pants or capris, quick-dry
- Travel skirt
- Hiking socks
- Underwear
- Swimsuit
- Sun hat (w/ chin strap to secure it if windy)
- Bandana
- Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries/bulb (required)
- Travel towel, lightweight & quick drying (use for swimming/beach)
- Small dry bag for kayaking
- 2 water bottles, 1-quart size or hydration pack
- Baby wipes
- Sunglasses & retainer strap (full eye protection from sand & wind)
- Sunblock and lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Personal first-aid kit
- Toiletry kit
- Hand sanitizer gel
- Watch with alarm or travel alarm
- Camera, film and spare batteries
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for the hike on Maderas Volcano)
- Pocket knife or pocket tool
- Reading and writing materials
- Small binoculars (recommended)
- Laundry soap
- Motion sickness remedy (if prone)
- Ziploc bags for easy storage
- Favorite energy snacks and drink mixes
Things to Consider
- Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, hiking boots, a pair of shorts/shirt/fleece top/sandals and medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
- Bring clothing that is light in weight and color, quick-drying and that ventilates and protects you from the sun.
- Dress is informal and casual style clothes are always acceptable. Shorts, however, are not worn in the cities. Pants, capris, and skirts are a better choice for city wear, especially when visiting Nicaragua’s many beautiful and traditional churches. Shorts and beachwear are acceptable while hiking and at the beach.
- Bring a lightweight, long-sleeved fleece or synthetic top, especially for hiking on the volcanoes, Maderas and Mombacho, in particular, which can be covered in a layer of mist causing cooler conditions.
- A lightweight rain poncho may be preferable over a rain jacket due to the heat and humidity generally experienced in Nicaragua.
- Make sure boots are broken-in. Bring moleskin for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. The liner sock should be synthetic, not cotton. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip.
- Trekking poles are highly recommended for the hike on Maderas Volcano (Day 6).
- Sarongs make excellent lightweight, quick-drying and compact travel and beach towels. Another good option is the REI MultiTowel Lite (available in various sizes) or similar. See www.rei.com for details.
- Roads, other than major highways and those in the cities, are mostly unpaved, and can be deeply rutted, muddy, and rocky. Be prepared for rough rides to the volcanoes.
- Plastic bags are the key to keeping clothing and gear dry. Use Ziploc bags to keep wet clothes separate from dry clothes.
- If you wear prescription glasses, use a safety cord and bring an extra pair if possible. Contact lens wearers should also bring an extra set, or bring eyeglasses for a backup.
- Space for luggage is limited. Pack lightly, fitting all clothing into one duffel bag. During the day, plan on carrying a small daypack with sunscreen, water bottles/hydration system and camera.
Feel free to give us a call at (800)622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and REI’s Direct Sales (800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or visit REI’s website at www.rei.com. The “Expert Advice” section has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
New this year in the REI Adventures lineup, our Active Nicaragua trip was named one of "50 Tours of a Lifetime" by National Geographic Traveler. We sat down with Adventure Specialist Liz Emerick to find out just what puts Nicaragua on people's "must see" list and to get some insight into this newly popular destination.
Q: Why is Nicaragua considered to be an up-and-coming hot travel destination?
A: Many Americans shied away from traveling to Nicaragua because of the political turmoil of the 70s and 80s, and as such it is relatively undiscovered territory for North Americans. Today, Nicaragua is going through a wonderful transitional stage, developing its infrastructure and emerging in the global community as a key player in Central America. Because it is relatively untouched by tourism, many people want to see the country at this point in its history. This is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts. It is really quite exciting! The best part is that Nicaraguans are really happy that folks are interested in learning about their country and culture. There is a real positive energy among the people. They are open and excited to share their country and culture with travelers. I think North American tourists are wanting and ready to see the raw beauty of the countryside and the genuine kindness of the Nicaraguans, to share in this optimism and experience the vibrancy of the people.
Q: Describe something that you learned about the people of Nicaragua that you wouldn't have known by reading beforehand.
A: I wouldn't have realized how warm, friendly and passionate the people of Nicaragua are if I hadn't traveled there. Whether you were talking with guides, shop owners, restaurant staff, or families relaxing in a park, everyone was open and willing to chat. Folks are passionate about their country's history. They really want to share their experience and help you understand their culture. People gladly help you with your Spanish (and are patient while you stumble through the three years of high school Spanish you took). They also want to practice their English, so they are delighted to chat about almost anything...the history of the cathedral you might be standing next to, what kind of animals you might find in a certain part of the forest you're hiking in, the beautiful weather, or where to find the nearest pharmacy so you can purchase more sun block!
Q: Do you have any "secret" insider info you can give us? What out-of-the-way places, customs, or current events did you learn about or see that aren't in guidebooks?
A: Absolutely. One of the best things that REI Adventures has to offer is the special surprises that are often hidden in our itineraries. For example, on our Nicaragua trip we visited this really great freshwater spring that the local land owners had cultivated and turned into an oasis-like swimming hole. They had also put up a rope swing that provided hours of fun. I loved seeing our guests of all ages enjoying a great afternoon at the secret swimming hole! Another special surprise was when we joined a local family on Ometepe Island for dinner, and it just happened to be the 4th birthday of the youngest daughter of our host family. The kids had a piñata, and we got to watch them bat it around for the candy inside. It was so fun to share this moment with our host family, and we really were thankful for being included.
Q: Describe your favorite Nicaraguan meal. What would you recommend as a "don't miss" dish or meal?
A: Oh my gosh! How can I pick? It was all so good and really easy to eat healthy in Nicaragua. They have so many fresh fruits: pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, mango and papaya—and then they have fresh juices and sorbets too! One of the really great local dishes is called gallo pinto (or speckled rooster) which is a mixture of fried white rice and kidney beans with onions and sweet pepper. This is regularly provided for breakfast as well as lunch and dinner. But out of everything I think my absolute favorite was the fresh seafood ceviche. Mmm...Perfecto!
Q: Describe the landscape you traveled through. What features or wildlife come to mind?
A: Part of what makes Nicaragua such an intriguing destination is that you can see so much biodiversity and variety of landscape in such a small area. For example, we hiked through two entirely different ecosystems: rain forests with vines and dry forests with cacti. We kayaked through a freshwater estuary and sailed along the ocean coastline on the Pacific. And we got to see and hike up steaming volcanoes! We also saw a vast array of wildlife, from howler monkeys in the forest canopy to blue-jay-type birds at our picnic table to tiny leaf cutter ants on the forest floor. The jungles and coastlines of Nicaragua are rich with wildlife—besides a myriad of bird species, you might be lucky enough to see such things as jaguars, three-toed sloths, tamandua anteaters, armadillos or sea turtles. And on Lake Nicaragua, you just might spot the only freshwater sharks in the world!
Q: Tell us about your guide. What did you learn from him or her?
A: Gerald is an awesome guide! He is really professional and approachable, and you just instantly feel at ease with him, like you're old buddies. He has unbridled enthusiasm for sharing his country and culture with you. I learned so much from Gerald, from political history to cultural geography to the environment. Having lived in Texas for ten years, he also has great first-hand knowledge of North American culture and the English language, which just makes him that much better as a guide.
Q: How is the REI Adventures trip different from those offered by other companies?
A: REI Adventures is one of the first North American-owned companies to work with local Nicaraguans to create a great travel program. The tourism industry is just starting to take off in Nicaragua, and I'm proud to know that REI is supporting it in a constructive and positive way. Most Nicaraguans understand that as their country's infrastructure continues to develop that tourism is one way that they can directly affect the local economy. By working with locally owned companies in Nicaragua we can support the communities that provide these services to us through accommodations, transportation and specialty guides for particular activities. Nicaraguans involved in the tourism industry appreciate that REI Adventures works hard to encourage environmental and cultural sensitivity amongst its clients and employees. So Nicaraguans know that they are encouraging the development of a progressive industry that benefits everyone involved and in particular the local communities and the environment.
