Granada's Nature & Colonial Architecture

Begin your guided journey of discovering Nicaragua by boarding a comfortable, air-conditioned coach that awaits you at the pier. As you venture forth from San Juan del Sur, sit back and enjoy the beauty of the rolling hills and exotic flora and fauna that are unique to Nicaragua. Make sure to have your cameras ready for your first stop, Catarina; a breathtaking overlook that offers stunning vistas of some of Nicaragua's most beautiful landmarks combined with the beauty of mother nature, such as the Apoyo Lagoon formed 23,000 years ago when hot springs filled a volcano crater. You will also enjoy a bird's eye view of Granada, the picturesque colonial city founded in 1524 by a Spanish Conquistador, the Mombacho Volcano and it’s evergreen ecosystem, and Lake Nicaragua, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and home to a volcano chain of hundreds of beautiful islets. It is also home to the only freshwater bull shark on the planet. While here, peruse the unique market located at the overlook, where it's possible to purchase handmade leather products, beautiful embroidered clothing, delicate wood carvings, hand-painted ceramics and hundreds of other items representative of the country's unique and mysterious culture. 

Continue from here to the Colonial city of Granada. Once in Granada, step back in time as you visit this picturesque colonial city located in the shadow of the towering Mombacho Volcano on the shore of Lake Nicaragua. Founded in 1524 by Spanish Conquistador Hernandez de Cordoba, Granada’s historic churches and convents have withstood the test of the centuries including invasions from English, Dutch and French pirates.

Your guided walking tour here includes a stroll through the Parque Central, the city’s social, cultural and economic hub, where local artisans and vendors offer their beautifully crafted products for sale. Take time to marvel at the timeless beauty and historic legacy that has been preserved in this amazing city.

Prior to your scenic drive back to the ship, you'll be treated to a buffet lunch of traditional Nicaraguan favorites that include chicken medallions, sea bass, rice and beans, and dessert.