Nicaragua's Wildlife and Nature Exploration | Trip Itinerary

Note:  This tour is a suggested, customized itinerary that is very flexible. We can make changes in hotels, excursions and destinations to suit your travel dates, style and budget.

Option #1 with Jaguar Reserve visits protected cloud forest & nature reserve

Option #2 includes Rio San Juan & Indo Maiz Nature Reserve for tropical rainforest mammals, birdlife and aquatic species as well. Optional extension to Solentiname Islands & Los Guatuzos wetlands visit.

Both itineraries visit the colonal city of Granada, the cloud forests of Mombacho volcano, an afternoon boat ride through Las Isletas of Lake Nicaragua, Masaya Volcano and market, Chocoyero nature reserve and finish with the tropical dry forests near to Carazo at the D’Santos Lodge.

Option #1-can begin any day.
Day 1:  Arrival to Managua airport. Meet our local representative after you have cleared immigration and customs formalities. Transfer a short distance to your select hotel for an overnight stay. (B)

Day 2:  After breakfast meet your guide for private transfer to the El Jaguar Nature Reserve. The reserve is a private family run farm that produces high quality organic coffee, in perfect harmony with the community and the surrounding ecosystem. The giant oak and fern trees within the forest provide perfect shelter for a large diversity of plant and animal life. 70 acres of protected Cloud forest and 35 acres of managed woods surround the farm. Within these woods can be found rare orchids and giant ferns trees dating back to Jurassic times.
Although, the main goal is to produce high quality environmental friendly coffee, they have the farm open to visitors that are interested in the organic coffee production, and also in the environment protection.
Check-in for a 2-night stay in standard cabin. (B, L, D)

Day 3:  Nature walks and bird watching.
El Jaguar is a sanctuary for a large number of birds, migratory and residents. In April 2002 a research team from the COCIBOLCA Foundation as part of the National Important Bird Areas Program from BirdLife International, financed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) rediscovered in El Jaguar, for the first time in Nicaragua since 1891, the Golden-cheeked Warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia). At the same time, the research team detected the presence of the resident Three-wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculatus); both species are threatened worldwide. 

Among other results the team found 4 new reports for Nicaragua and in just three days made an inventory list with 106 bird species. These results show the importance to conserve El Jaguar as a very important habitat for birds and attracted the attention of both ornithologists and birdwatchers on the importance of Nicaraguan Northern Highlands for birds.

Nowadays El Jaguar Bird’s Inventory list has 291 species. Different factors permit to have such quantity of bird’s reports in just 100 hectares:

1) Privileged location: El Jaguar is located in the Northern highlands of Nicaragua which are the southernmost distribution range for many species animals and plants. We have at least 13 bird species that you can’t see in southern countries.

2) The reserve has a Caribbean slope, therefore many birds from the low Caribbean rainforest, that make altitudinal migrations, can be seen in El Jaguar, but you can also observe birds from the Pacific slope.

3) The forest we protect is a Cloud Forest which trees covered with bromeliads and mosses, and an understory full of ferns and other plants. This forest provides perfect shelter for many birds and other animal life.

Every year, from October through April, many migrant neartical birds come to El Jaguar as winter residents or to make a Stopover in the Reserve. (B, L, D)

Day 4:  Private guided transfer from Jaguar Lodge to Granada City. On arrival you will enjoy lunch followed by a tour of the city and a late afternoon boat ride on Lake Nicaragua. 
Granada was founded in 1524, is the oldest European settlement in the Americas. Walk around the main square and admire La Merced church, the famed convent of San Francisco where you’ll have the opportunity to see the mysterious stone idols, made by our Indian ancestors, as well as an impressive collection of genuine pre-Columbian sculptures.

Then you will continue to the lake of Nicaragua for the relaxing boat ride around some of the islands formed by the impressive Mombacho volcano. See the volcanic evidence and influence of the area. Enjoy great landscape views and wildlife and of course have a chance to take pictures.
Check-in to your select Granada hotel for a 2-night stay.  Remainder of the evening to explore on your own.

Day 5:  Half day tour of Mombacho Volcano.  For our visit, we go first to the foot of the mountain where we meet the park rangers. Then we will switch vehicles and start our way up to the top on a four wheel drive. The adventure begins on a paved road and right from the start we will be surprised by the biodiversity of this natural reserve. Surrounded by exuberant vegetation and enjoying breathtaking views. When we reach the summit, we will understand why this ecosystem is a cloud forest. The park keeper will give instructions to everyone so we can enjoy our visit. We will then take the trails of the volcano (For approximately 1:45 Minutes) to learn a lot about the flora, the fauna, the ancient people who lived there and the Vulcan logy of the area. If the day is clear enough, we will visit an impressive viewpoint to observe the plain pacific region of Nicaragua, the neighboring city of Granada and the great lake of Nicaragua and its islands. When we return from our walk, we will visit the biological station where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or purchase snacks. Our guide will let us know when it is time to board the vehicle that will transport us back to the foot of the mountain. This is considered a moderate hike.

Return in the early afternoon to Granada, where you’ll have the remainder of the day for lunch and enjoy the museums, plazas, sites and sounds of this lovely city.  (B)

Day 6: Full day tour with private guide to Masaya Volcano, Masaya Market and Chocoyero Nature Reserve. In the afternoon check-in to the D’Santos Boutique Hotel near to Carazo.

After breakfast you will check-out of your hotel and meet your guide for the day’s activities. Scenic vistas, nature and some Nicaraguan culture are all part of the plan!

Your first stop is the magnificent Masaya Volcano. You drive past old lava flows right up to the top of the volcano, where it is just a short walk for an up-close view of the Santiago crater, which has been active since 1946. Time to explore the surrounding area and see more volcanic formations—these activities will be decided on with your guide based on your physical capabilities and interests—and the volcanoes activity level. Next continue down the mountain to the famous town of Masaya. Learn about the history of this area, and visit the famous Masaya Market.  Free time here to explore, photograph and buy some of the impressive local handicrafts.

Lunch is include in town before continuing a short distance to the Chocoyero reserve.
Here you’ll find several trails that take you to different types of forest and vegetation. With an abundance of water Chocoyero is always green and wildlife flourishes. Two types of monkeys inhabit the park: howler and white-face monkeys. Taking the Congo trail increases the chances of seeing those monkeys even more. Chocoyero also houses lots of birds. The reserve is famous for its chocoyos-- green parakeets that all nest right next to a waterfall and can be seen in big numbers in the morning when they leave, and in the late afternoon when they return. After observing their afternoon arrival, you’ll continue to Carazo and check-in to the D´Santos Hotel for a 2 night stay in Jr. Suite or Suite rooms accommodations. (B, L)

Day 7:  Half day morning tour of the coffee farm and birdwatching with your private bilingual guide. 
About the D´Santos Hotel Boutique & Wildlife Reserve:
Since 1870 the Rapaccioli family has been involved with growing coffee. These pioneers of the area were awarded with a prestigious Dutch certification for their responsible coffee production.
Strolling along the easy paths of the reserve with your naturalist tour guide will be just the beginning of a fascinating experience. You will learn about the traditional ways of cultivating shaded coffee, about the species of plants and their relationship with the fauna of the area. Keep your eyes open for iguanas, small mammals as well as dazzling butterflies and a large variety of birds like woodpeckers manakins and Nicaragua’s national bird-the turquoise browed motmot. Currently the reserve boasts 125 plant species (grasses, lianas, shrubs, precious wood trees, fruit, ornamentals and epiphytes) and 228 fauna families divided among: 9 mammals, 59 birds, 7 amphibian, 16 reptiles and 137 insects.

Return to the hotel for lunch at your leisure, and an afternoon free for further explorations, or relaxing amount the lush hotel gardens and historic home. (B, L)

Day 8:  Transfer to the Managua airrport.
After breakfast you will meet our private speaking Spanish driver for your transfer to the Managua airport. Travel time is approximately 55 minutes. (B)

Option #2 can begin Wednesday or Saturday (Must be Saturday if including Solentiname Island extension)

Day 1:  Arrival to Managua airport. Meet our local representative after you have cleared immigration and customs formalities. Transfer a short distance to your select hotel for an overnight stay. (B)

Day 2: After breakfast, meet your guide at your hotel for the short transfer to the Managua airport for the short domestic flight to San Carlos. On arrival you’ll meet our local representative who will take you for lunch at a local restaurant before your private boat transfer of approximately 1.5 hours along the Rio San Juan to El Castillo town.  Check-in to the Luna del Rio Hotel for a 2-night stay.  This evening you’ll experience a Caiman night tour with bilingual local guide.  Enjoy this unique experience of searching caiman under the moonlight and accompanied by only a specialist guide.

In the darkness and melody that Rio San Juan nightlife offers you the opportunity to discover with just a spotlight alligators through the color of your eyes, plus all the features of their habitat. In the darkness and melody that Rio San Juan nightlife offers you the opportunity to discover with just a spotlight alligators through the color of your eyes, plus all the features of their habitat.
Dinner tonight is included at a local restaurant in El Castillo (B, L, D)

Day 3:  Indio Maiz Nature Reserve tour + El Castillo town & fortress
The Indio Maiz Biological Reserve is considered one of the best preserved natural reserves in Nicaragua. The area is located in the southeast corner of the country, bordering the San Juan River. The reserve encompasses 3,180 km², and it is home to a wide variety of rainforest animals.
Among the animals that live in the forest are hundreds of different bird species, including toucans, hummingbirds, macaws, parrots, and many other spectacular, colorful species. The reserve is also inhabited by beautiful mammals like deer, sloths, wild boars, pumas, jaguars, pacas, foxes, and even one spectacular aquatic mammal: manatees. All of the three monkey species that live in Nicaragua can be found in the Indio Maiz Reserve (Howler, White-Face, and Spider Monkey). Other animal species that can be found in this area include poison dart frogs, snakes, crocodiles, turtles, and iguanas.
Wildlife is spectacular and many tropical animals can be easily seen. Another option is to stay in the boat and go up the Bartola River. The Indio Maíz Reserve is situated right next to this river, and from the boat it is also possible to spot beautiful animals and enjoy the impressive forest. Especially birds can be easily seen when traveling up the river by boat, and it is not uncommon to see dozens of different species during one trip.

Picnic lunch at the Reserve, after lunch back to El Castillo and know the town including the visit to El Castillo Fortress.

El Castillo Tour: Escorted by a guide from the Castillo, you would visit and interact with the people of the zone. The guide will explain about the customs, gastronomy & miths. Visit the historic fortress El Castillo de la Inmaculada Concepcion. It was built by the Spanish on XVIII century for stop the English pirates. 
Enjoy the travel on San Juan River. Keep your eyes open because you will see jumping the great tarpon fish, herons, alligators, cormorant and pink birds (Espatulas Rosadas).

Return to El Castillo town for dinner and overnight. (B, BL, D)

Day 4: Private Unescorted transfer from El Castillo by boat to San Carlos town, and overland transfer to Granada City.  You’ll have a quick stop along the way in Chontales town. Arrive in the afternoon to the charming colonial city of Granada and check-in to your select hotel for a 2-night stay. Free evening to enjoy the restaurants and town on your own. (B)

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Optional Extension to Solentiname Islands & Los Guatuzos reserve adds 2 nights, with changes as follows (note this itinerary must begin with arrival to Managua on a Saturday):

Day 4/Tuesday:  Private Unescorted transfer from El Castillo by boat to San Carlos town. Upon arrival into San Carlos pier, you will change Boat and then you will continue to the Solentiname Islands. Check-in to the Cabanas Paraiso on San Fernando Island for a 2 night stay.

After lunch, your local guide will lead you to an afternoon tour to visit the main Islands, local museum and the artist work houses. Today you will witness and learn how from the 1970’s, under the leadership of Ernesto Cardenal, priest, poet and former Minister of Culture in the Sandinista government in Nicaragua, a group of fishermen and country folk developed a painting school that became known as Escuela Primitivista de Solentiname. This form of art has become world famous, keep your eyes open for the incredible bird life. (B, L, D)

Day 5/Wednesday:  Private half day boat trip to Los Guatuzos Reserve, and afternoon at leisure.
After breakfast you start your trip by boat to Los Guatuzos research center, located on the southern shores of Lake Nicaragua and the western shores of the San Juan River. Most impressive in the reserve is the super-rich bird life, but monkeys; sloth, caiman, iguanas and agouti are also common. Once at the station get ready for your 2 hours trip to enjoy nature and it’s wonder at this primitive forest.  Return to San Fernando Island for lunch, with the rest of the afternoon to explore on your own the surroundings.  Dinner Included.

Day 6/Thursday:  Free morning for exploring San Fernando Island on your own. This is a great time to visit the local artists, visit the tiny museum focusing on the natural and cultural history of the islands, or take a short hike to observe a pre-columbian petroglyph. Late morning you’ll depart by boat back to the town of San Carlos, and on to the San Carlos airport for your flight to Managua. Current schedule departs at 2:15 PM, arriving 3:05 PM.  Here you’ll meet our local guide for the short transfer (about 45 minutes) to the colonial city of Granada. Check-in to your select hotel for a 2-night stay. (B)
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Day 5 (or 7): Full day tour with your private guide exploring Mombacho Cloud Forest Reserve, a city tour of Granada, and finishing with a late afternoon 2 hour boat ride through the Las Isletas area of Lake Nicaragua for birdwatching and scenic views of this unique area.

For our visit, we go first to the foot of the mountain where we meet the park rangers. Then we will switch vehicles and start our way up to the top on a four wheel drive. The adventure begins on a paved road and right from the start we will be surprised by the biodiversity of this natural reserve. Surrounded by exuberant vegetation and enjoying breathtaking views. When we reach the summit, we will understand why this ecosystem is a cloud forest. The park keeper will give instructions to everyone so we can enjoy our visit. We will then take the trails of the volcano (For approximately 1:45 Minutes) to learn a lot about the flora, the fauna, the ancient people who lived there and the Vulcan logy of the area. If the day is clear enough, we will visit an impressive viewpoint to observe the plain pacific region of Nicaragua, the neighboring city of Granada and the great lake of Nicaragua and its islands. When we return from our walk, we will visit the biological station where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or purchase snacks. Our guide will let us know when it is time to board the vehicle that will transport us back to the foot of the mountain. This is considered a moderate hike.
Return to Granada for your tour of the most important historical sites.

Granada was founded in 1524, is the oldest European settlement in the Americas. Walk around the main square and admire La Merced church, the famed convent of San Francisco where you’ll have the opportunity to see the mysterious stone idols, made by our Indian ancestors, as well as an impressive collection of genuine pre-Columbian sculptures.

Then you will continue to the lake of Nicaragua for the relaxing boat ride around some of the islands formed by the impressive Mombacho volcano. See the volcanic evidence and influence of the area. Enjoy great landscape views and wildlife and of course have a chance to take pictures.
Late afternoon return to your Granada hotel to enjoy your last evening in this impressive city. (B, L, D)

Day 6 (or 8): Full day tour with private guide to Masaya Volcano, Masaya Market and Chocoyero Nature Reserve. In the afternoon check-in to the D’Santos Boutique Hotel near to Carazo.

After breakfast you will check-out of your hotel and meet your guide for the day’s activities. Scenic vistas, nature and some Nicaraguan culture are all part of the plan!

Your first stop is the magnificent Masaya Volcano. You drive past old lava flows right up to the top of the volcano, where it is just a short walk for an up-close view of the Santiago crater, which has been active since 1946. Time to explore the surrounding area and see more volcanic formations—these activities will be decided on with your guide based on your physical capabilities and interests—and the volcanoes activity level. Next continue down the mountain to the famous town of Masaya. Learn about the history of this area, and visit the famous Masaya Market.  Free time here to explore, photograph and buy some of the impressive local handicrafts.

Lunch is include in town before continuing a short distance to the Chocoyero reserve.
Here you’ll find several trails that take you to different types of forest and vegetation. With an abundance of water Chocoyero is always green and wildlife flourishes. Two types of monkeys inhabit the park: howler and white-face monkeys. Taking the Congo trail increases the chances of seeing those monkeys even more. Chocoyero also houses lots of birds. The reserve is famous for its chocoyos-- green parakeets that all nest right next to a waterfall and can be seen in big numbers in the morning when they leave, and in the late afternoon when they return. After observing their afternoon arrival, you’ll continue to Carazo and check-in to the D´Santos Hotel for a 2 night stay in Jr. Suite or Suite rooms accommodations. (B, L)

Day 7 (or 9):  Half day morning tour of the coffee farm and birdwatching with your private bilingual guide.. 
About the D´Santos Hotel Boutique & Wildlife Reserve:
Since 1870 the Rapaccioli family has been involved with growing coffee. These pioneers of the area were awarded with a prestigious Dutch certification for their responsible coffee production.
Strolling along the easy paths of the reserve with your naturalist tour guide will be just the beginning of a fascinating experience. You will learn about the traditional ways of cultivating shaded coffee, about the species of plants and their relationship with the fauna of the area. Keep your eyes open for iguanas, small mammals as well as dazzling butterflies and a large variety of birds like woodpeckers manakins and Nicaragua’s national bird-the turquoise browed motmot. Currently the reserve boasts 125 plant species (grasses, lianas, shrubs, precious wood trees, fruit, ornamentals and epiphytes) and 228 fauna families divided among: 9 mammals, 59 birds, 7 amphibian, 16 reptiles and 137 insects.

Return to the hotel for lunch at your leisure, and an afternoon free for further explorations, or relaxing amount the lush hotel gardens and historic home. (B, L)

Day 8 (or 10):  Transfer to the Managua airrport.
After breakfast you will meet our private speaking Spanish driver for your transfer to the Managua airport. Travel time is approximately 55 minutes. (B)
 

B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner