Ultimate Nicaragua: Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Remaining one of Latin America’s best kept secrets, Nicaragua is a country full of vibrant colonial heritage, mighty volcanoes and tranquil lakes. Nicaragua is paving the way at the forefront of eco-tourism, offering a unique experience while preserving the beautiful wildlife and surroundings. From exploring rainforests to sand-boarding down an active volcano – yes, volcano – you can choose to unwind and relax, unleash your inner adrenaline junkie or tick all the boxes and try a winning combination of both on our nine night luxury holiday to Nicaragua. You’ll stay at some of the most remote eco-retreats amidst astounding scenery and discover the abundant wildlife, culture and history of this beautifully diverse country.

Explore vibrant cities

Begin your trip in León, Nicaragua’s second largest city and the cultural hub of the country. A little more off the tourist trail than Granada, León offers a more authentic city experience, with the long pacific coastline offering white and black sand beaches, mangroves and bird-filled estuaries – perfect for unwinding after exploring the city. Take a guided walking tour around the city to explore the rich history – the best way to discover León is by foot as much of its charm lies in the narrow colonial streets, art galleries, museums, restaurants and architecture. Here you’ll stay in Hotel la Perla, a beautiful colonial mansion decorated with typical Spanish style and with views overlooking the city. Juan Venado Island is just a short boat ride away; this natural reserve boasts a deserted 20km long beach on one side, with a winding channel in the heart of a mangrove swamp on the other. The island is home to crocodiles, iguanas and 106 species of bird, and is a well-known vital nesting ground for olive ridley sea turtles – you can catch a magical glimpse of the nesting season between August and December.

Granada is thought to be one of the oldest colonial cities in the western hemisphere, having been founded in 1524, and is your next city feat. No visit here is complete without a tour in a horse drawn carriage, a climb to the top of the Merced church bell tower for beautiful views and a trip to the San Francisco convent – now functioning as a museum – which is home to an impressive collection of pre-Colombian art.Rest your head at Hotel Plaza Colon, a vibrant luxury hotel with a hidden pool and courtyard where you can find a slice of tranquillity in this bustling heart of Nicaragua.

Volcanic heights

Throw in Central America’s youngest volcano and a sturdy sand board, and you have our new favourite sport; volcano boarding. Not quite as terrifying as it sounds (you’ll surf ash not molten lava) but definitely adrenaline inducing. A 45 minute hike takes you to the summit of Cerro Negro, with awe-inspiring views and the start of your descent, where you’ll slide back down to the base of the volcano in a matter of minutes. See if you can beat the current record speed of 51 mph – not one for the faint-hearted but a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Islets, Lakes and Beaches

From ultimate luxury at Mukul resort in Nicaragua’s Emerald coast to Central America’s most upscale eco lodge on Jicaro Island, one of 365 volcanic islets in Lake Nicaragua, you’ll stay in the most luxurious retreats amidst breath-taking surroundings – think crystal-clear waters, majestic volcanoes and dense jungle. Jicaro Ecolodge is leading the way for a new sustainable eco-tourism while maintaining a truly luxurious feel throughout the resort. Pacific coastline and volcanic islands make up the whereabouts of these two very special retreats on this trip; an island getaway in a lake is all the more unusual, which of course makes it brilliant.