Looking for a unique destination? Try Nicaragua!

Nicaragua is the safest country in Central America. It offers unique cultural sites and pristine natural destinations, unspoiled by crowds or overdevelopment. As more people begin to discover Nicaragua, many new unique resorts have begun to be developed. Nicaragua’s resorts area ideal for luxury travelers who are looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences that include exciting adventure activities, authentic cultural exploration, gourmet fare, and some good old R&R. Pacaya Lodge and Spa is one of many new unique resorts in Nicaragua. While we pride ourselves on our beautiful property and excellent service, what really sets us apart from the crowd is our social mission and dedication to giving back to our community.  

What makes Pacaya Lodge & Spa unique?

One of Pacaya Lodge and Spa’s qualities that make it a unique resort in Nicaragua is its giving back to the vibrant communities of Laguna de Apoyo. In a country where less than 10% of rural youth finish high school, Pacaya Lodge and Spa supports education by contributing a percentage of all lodge revenues to the nearby technical high school of Emprendedora. In addition, Pacaya Lodge engages school services such as laundry, sources produce from its working farm and offers internships and professional development opportunities to standout students. Pacaya Lodge and Spa is also committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The lodge buildings, grounds, and operations are in accordance with the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria for hotels and tour operators, the gold standard for responsible tourism practices.

Our Special Services and Amenities

Pacaya Lodge and Spa also stands out from other resorts in Nicaragua because of its high-quality features and variety of enjoyable experiences both on and off-site. With 26 rooms featuring decor by local artists and a hammock on each private balcony, the lodge is the epitome of a boutique hotel. In addition to contemporary and welcoming accommodation, Pacaya Lodge & Spa has a tranquil infinity pool overlooking the expansive Laguna de Apoyo. Howler monkeys and exotic birds can be heard can you explore the trails of the reserve, and the lodge’s close proximity to the crystal clear water of Laguna de Apoyo make for a wonderful day of sunbathing, paddle boarding, and swimming. The open-air restaurant of Restaurante Guardabarranco, complete with locally-sourced and mouth-watering cuisine, awaits you after you enjoy refreshing cocktails and snacks at Bar Macuá.

Are you traveling to Nicaragua on a romantic getaway? Pacaya Lodge & Spa offers a romantic escape vacation package, as well as three other themed packages that are personalized to fit what you desire from a luxury vacation. Multiple tours and excursions are also available, ranging from a cultural day trip to Granada, a visit to Chocoyero Nature Reserve to sightsee breathtaking nature and wildlife, to a trek and zipline tour of Mombacho Volcano. Pacaya Lodge & Spa is a resort in Nicaragua that will provide you with an experience unlike any you’ve had before!

 

Nicaragua Boutique Hotels

Nicaragua boutique hotels are rapidly gaining popularity. These types of hotels are small, with typically less than 100 rooms. They are also known for their unique settings and beautiful, high-quality accommodation. Nicaragua is an ideal country for boutique hotels because the hotels are of wonderful service and quality for a reasonable price, and the lush landscape provides a gorgeous setting in which to relax and enjoy a 5-star experience. Nicaragua boutique hotels are perfect for those seeking an intimate, personalized stay, and Pacaya Lodge & Spa is no exception.  

Pacaya Lodge & Spa: A Beautiful Boutique Hotel in Nicaragua

Pacaya Lodge & Spa overlooks the crystal clear crater lake of Laguna de Apoyo. It is the only 5-star resort at Laguna de Apoyo and offers an unforgettable boutique experience less than 30 minutes from the stunning city of Granada. With 26 rooms featuring decor by local artists and a hammock on each private balcony, the lodge is the epitome of a boutique hotel. In addition to contemporary, cozy rooms, Pacaya Lodge & Spa has a tranquil infinity pool overlooking the expansive Laguna de Apoyo.

What Makes Pacaya Lodge & Spa a Unique Nicaragua Boutique Hotel?

Other experiences in which to indulge at Pacaya Lodge & Spa include the many spa treatments available onsite, such as a coconut oil massage and Papaya therapy. Restaurante Guardabarranco, the open-air restaurant with panoramic views and a fresh blend of traditional and modern cuisine, is ideal for satisfying your cuisine cravings. Are you seeking exciting activities around the lodge? Pacaya Lodge & Spa offers a vast array of tours and excursions, including a day trip to the colonial city of León, a tour of Volcán Masaya, scuba opportunities at Laguna de Apoyo, and horseback riding through the scenic countryside. With an abundance of world-class services, amenities, and adventures, there’s no Nicaragua boutique hotel more suited to travelers’ desires than Pacaya Lodge & Spa.    

Book your stay at Pacaya Lodge & Spa today!

Nicaragua is the perfect destination for a family getaway. Considered the safest country in Central America, this peaceful country has limitless experiences for families to enjoy Nicaragua’s rich natural and cultural attractions. Check out our 7 favorite picks for fun family activities in Nicaragua!

1. Family Fun in Granada

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Head to Granada and make sure to stop at its famous Choco Museo for an hour-long lesson in the art of chocolate-making. Transform Nicaraguan-grown cacao into chocolate bars and customize your chocolate bar with a variety of additional flavors. With full bellies, spend the afternoon relaxing and taking in the gorgeous colonial architecture as you take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city for less than $20/hr. Kids will feel on top of the world in this fun mode of transportation! Climbing to the top of the La Merced church’s bell tower is also a great activity to do with the kids and offers stunning views of the Granada and the countryside. The church is open to the public and charges $1 admission (no charge for those 3 years old and under). From the stunning views at the top, you can see Mombacho Volcano, the cathedral, and Lake Nicaragua.  

2. Family Adventure on Isla de Ometepe

Isla de Ometepe is a family-friendly, scenic destination set against the striking crystal blue waters of Lake Nicaragua. Accessed by ferry, the gorgeous twin volcanoes of Ometepe are the perfect backdrop for any holiday card or family photoshoot. The island is known for its incredible array of biodiversity (now a UNESCO Bio Reserve), and the Charco Verde Reserve provides wildlife spotting opportunities. Howler monkeys, sloths, and parakeets await! Kids will love the mysterious pre-columbian petroglyphs and artifacts found on the island that date back to pre-columbian times. The island offers plenty of activities for such as horseback rides through the lush jungle canopy, petroglyph tours, and hikes. Don’t miss this fun family activity in Nicaragua!  

3. Boat Tour of Las Isletas

An ancient eruption of the nearby Volcán Mombacho created over 300 tiny islands in Lake Nicaragua off the coast of Granada. Travel by boat, kayak, or paddle board as you appreciate Central America’s largest lake! Explore small islands, fishermen huts, gorgeous homes, and experience close encounters with native birds and monkeys. It’s a great break from the city life, and the kids will love being out on the pristine water.  

4. Peek into the Crater at Volcán Masaya

No family trip to Nicaragua is complete without a visit to Volcán Masaya. This fun family activity in Nicaragua is a must fo the whole family. Travel by car through Volcán Masaya National Park and stop at the top for the best view of the crater. The visitor center provides educational opportunities for those who are interested in learning more about its creation. Schedule a night tour for the opportunity to admire the reflection of glowing lava down below.   

5. Swim and Surf in San Juan del Sur

Travel to the world-renowned beaches of San Juan del Sur and relax in the warm sand. San Juan del Sur provides great opportunities to play in the Pacific Ocean, build sand castles, surf, and sunbathe. Sailing and snorkeling experiences are also available for adventurous family members! After your beach day spent soaking up the sun, head into town and grab a bite to eat at a beachside restaurant and stroll through the quirky boutique shops. This is a fun family activity in Nicaragua that has something for everyone!  

6. Enjoy Activities and Excursions at Pacaya Lodge & Spa

Our resort overlooks the striking Laguna de Apoyo crater lake and is well-suited to accommodate families and large groups. The infinity pool and beachfront access, complete with a floating dock and water toys, are popular among kids. We also have an organic garden where kids can explore and learn about local plants and produce. In addition to our onsite amenities, we offer a number of excursions for active families. From Scuba diving in Laguna de Apoyo, to volcano surfing, wildlife sightings, and horse-drawn carriage rides, there are endless adventures for kids of all ages.  

Situated in close proximity to Granada and Managua, Masaya is a department in Nicaragua and takes its name from the looming active volcano located just west of the town. Masaya is also the capital of the Masaya Department and is one of the most populous cities in Nicaragua, still small compared to other cities in Central America which allows for a tranquil and charming city feel. It’s also located west of the crater lake of Laguna de Apoyo, on which Pacaya Lodge and Spa is nestled. The laguna is popular to visitors and locals alike and is prime for water sports and fishing. If you are looking to spend a relaxing day exploring a city with rich culture and beautiful surrounding sites and activities, take a trip and enjoy 24 hours in Masaya!

Are you wondering what to see while in Masaya? Masaya has a charming city center complete with plazas, baroque churches, and colonial architecture. A striking site to explore is Coyotepe, a fortress built at the beginning of the 20th century. This fortress experienced a battle in October of 1912 between a rebel group and government troops. The fortress is now a museum and serves to educate visitors about this event in history.

Masaya is the ideal place for high quality artisan crafts. Known as the “Cradle of Nicaraguan Folklore,” visitors will find no shortage of jewelry, handwoven hammocks, leather goods, and  ceramics here! The Mercado de Artesanias, or Craft Market, is a 20th century structure in the city center that sells handmade craft products and holds live folk dance and music events. Looking to fill up on savory snacks? Masaya’s pre-Colombian foods are abundant and well-known throughout Nicaragua: make sure to try the nacatamal, vaho, and yucca, which you will have no problem finding in restaurants and street markets. These bustling markets will surely help you enjoy 24 hours in Masaya. 

Are you looking for some excitement on your day trip? Take a visit to Volcán Masaya National Park located at the famous Masaya Volcano, which is the most active volcano in the region Complete with a museum and tour guides, this park encompasses two volcanoes (Masaya and Nindirí) and five craters and allows for hikes inside bat caves and to the craters, trails to stunning viewpoints, and even a look over the edge into the Masaya Volcano. You can also trek through an underground tunnel formed by lava streams and end up with an unforgettable view into the glowing red mouth of the volcano! Make sure check if the park is open before you make the trip, as it may close temporarily when the volcano is especially active. Enjoy your adventure!

 

 

Known as the largest country in Central America, Nicaragua has recently become more well-known and popular to international visitors. It boasts all the beauty of Costa Rica but with an up-and-coming, pure and authentic tourism presence that cannot be found in the already booming Costa Rica. It’s truly a hidden gem that is finally receiving the recognition it deserves and is the perfect destination if you are seeking an off-the-beaten-path and vacation at a great value. A trip to Nicaragua includes lush rainforests and massive lakes, looming active volcanoes, colonial villages, diverse wildlife and over 500 miles of coastline: this peaceful nation has it all!

Western Nicaragua, closer to the Pacific Ocean, is a traveler’s dream and more frequented by visitors because of can’t-miss sites and cities like Granada, Lake Nicaragua, Laguna de Apoyo, and Pacaya Lodge and Spa. Delicious criollo cuisine strong and rich coffee as well as fresh and local produce can be savored in high quality restaurants, tranquil cafés, and food stalls alike.

Nicaragua has both a dry and wet season and experiences a tropical climate similar to that of other Central American countries. The dry season is from December to May with hot, dry and sunny weather. June through August is known as the rainy season, bringing in lush green foliage and cooler air. September through November is also considered the rainy season, but with heavier and more intense rainfall. There are three temperature zones: it’s hottest in the lowlands, followed by the central part of the country and the mountains in the north. Be sure to research what zone you will be spending the most time in and pack accordingly!

If communicating and connecting with Nicaraguans is one of your trip priorities, make sure to learn some basic Spanish words and phrases such as: Hello; Goodbye; Thank you; How are you?; My name is…; Where is the…?; How much does…cost? If you are exploring a nearby town or city on a daytrip from the Pacaya Lodge and Spa and want to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, bring a Nicaragua travel guide, a pen and pad or Spanish dictionary and phrasebook so that you can converse with the friendly people of Nicaragua. In general, not many Nicaraguans speak English, and it is greatly appreciated when you make the effort to speak Spanish, as you will experience true warmth and hospitality!