Our Favorite Adventure Activities Near Granada, Nicaragua
Outdoor-enthusiasts be warned: Granada is full of exciting adventure opportunities you won’t want to miss! Hike dense jungle trails in Nicaragua’s national parks, learn about the country’s natural history on a guided canopy tour, paddleboard beside Howler monkeys, or kayak through the isletas! There are endless opportunities to explore Granada and its natural wonders.1. Paddleboard Laguna de Apoyo
Located just half an hour outside of Granada, Laguna de Apoyo is a massive 5km long lagoon that reaches a depth of over 250 meters in some places. The lagoon formed as a result of a massive volcanic eruption that took place roughly 23,000 years ago. The eruption was so powerful that some chunks of rock were launched all the way to the Pacific Ocean, leaving this beautiful lagoon behind. The lagoon’s crystalline water is some of the cleanest in Nicaragua, and it creates a serene setting for paddle boarding. Beautiful coves and dense jungle line the perimeter of the lagoon, and it is possible to catch a glimpse of Howler monkeys hanging in the trees.
Paddleboard through this ancient lagoon.
2. Hike the Mombacho Volcano:
Looming in the distance, Mombacho provides a stunning backdrop to Granada. This dormant volcano is covered by a dense cloud forest. Guided hikes through the cloud forest provide the chance to see stunning views, several species of monkeys, sloths, frogs, salamanders, and birds. There are also coffee tours and canopy tours available near the base of the volcano.
Hike this dormant volcano for stunning views.
3. Kayak the Isletas of Granada
The Isletas of Granada are part of an archipelago of 360+ islands located in Lake Nicaragua. They were formed when the Mombacho Volcano erupted roughly 25,000 years ago. The Isletas are known for their tropical birds, lush vegetation, and great views of the surrounding area. Visit in the morning to optimize your chance of seeing wildlife.
Explore hundreds of little islands via kayak
4. View the smoke billowing out of the Masaya Volcano
Dubbed “the mouth of hell” by the Spanish, the Masaya Volcano is located within Nicaragua’s first and largest national park. There are tons of hiking trails, horseback riding opportunities, and caves to explore. Visit at night, and you might be able to catch catch a reflection of the lava flowing down below.
Visit at night to catch a reflection of the lava!
5. Hike beside scenic landscapes and waterfalls at the Montibelli and El Chocoyero natural reserves These two reserves are located near the town of Ticuantepe, which is roughly 45-minutes outside of Granada. Many tour operators combine these reserves into one incredible day trip. Montibelli is known for its birdlife and adjacent farms whereas El Chocoyero is famous for the thousands of chocoyos (parakeets), who nest in the reserve’s cliffs. El Chocoyero also has two beautiful waterfalls reachable by a moderate hike. The guide services at both reserves are excellent, and there is always the chance to see (and hear) the ever-present howler monkey.
Chocoyero resting in the trees.
Adventure is never far away when you’re in Nicaragua. With volcanoes, Lake Nicaragua, Laguna de Apoyo, and several nature reserves close by, Granada is the perfect place to mix a little adventure into your travels.
Pacaya Lodge offers a variety of tours and excursions for adventure lovers. To see our full list of activities, click here: https://pacayalodge.com/tours-excursions/
