Nature Experience - Masaya Volcano, Catarina & Granada

Enjoy a full-day guided experience to Catarina view point, Granada Colonial City and the Masaya National park featuring active volcanoes. Enjoy lunch in Granada, visit a crater lagoon and marvel at stunning vistas of a picturesque colonial city, a massive freshwater lake and majestic twin volcanoes that form an island.  

Your full-day guided experience begins with a scenic drive via air-conditioned transportation across the Nicaraguan countryside to Catarina volcanic lagoon. Sit back and enjoy the beauty of the passing verdant landscapes as your knowledgeable guide points out areas of interest and regales you with the colorful history of this amazing and exotic country. 

Your journey will start at the Catarina view point with a stunning view of the the Apoyo Crater which is now an enormous lagoon. Formed 23,000 years ago when hot springs filled the crater of a dormant volcano, this massive blue lagoon is home to an abundance of wildlife and features petro glyphs from indigenous cultures of long ago. 

At the crater's edge marvel at the unbelievable view of the towering Mombacho Volcano a rich eco-system of 4409 foot volcano with over 50 species of mammals, 174 species of birds, 90 different types of orchids, steaming fumaroles and a rare cloud forest. With a bird's eye, view  the steeples and rooftops of Granada and the massive Lake Nicaragua, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and home to a volcano chain, hundreds of beautiful islets and one of the freshwater shark on the planet.  

Your journey will continue to the still active Masaya Volcano, baptized "the mouth of hell" by Spanish Conquerors, was an object of veneration by indigenous peoples during the pre-Columbian age. Eruptions were believed to be signs of anger from the gods and sacrifices were made to appease them. Photo opportunities abound as you arrive at the Masaya Volcano National Park where the impressive influence of volcanic activity on the area is quite evident. Established in 1979 this national park is a marvel of nature with its two towering volcanoes, steam-spewing fumaroles, lush forest and a crater lagoon. 

Your trip will continue to the breathtaking colonial city of Granada, 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.  

Enjoy in Granada a delicious complimentary buffet lunch before heading back to the port. 

Practical information: 

• Language: English, Spanish, German and French.

• Included: Lunch.

• Remarks/requirements: Appropriate light clothing and comfortable walking shoes. 

• Walking information: Yes, even terrain at all venues.

• Wheelchair accessible: No.