A taste of Nicaragua with Ometepe Island, Granada and Corn Island
(7 Days / 6 Nights) Price from: $ 1,015.00
Inquire NowThis tour of Nicaragua includes a visit to Isla Ometepe and the old colonial town of Granada. Isla de Maiz (Little Corn Island) and Big Corn island are located about 70 km east off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Tourism on Little Corn island is still in its infancy. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and ocean fishing are all excellent. Big corn island is quite picturesque. A boat trip around the island will showcase its natural beauty. Local flight included.
Day 01: Transfer from Peñas Blancas (Nicaragua-Costa Rica Border) to Ometepe. Villa Paraiso Hotel.
From Lake Nicaragua, the same lake that the Spanish conquerors called the ‘fresh water sea’ because of its sheer size, rises the island Ometepe. The name Ometepe means ‘two hills’ in the native ‘náhuatl’ language. The island measures 276 square kilometers and it houses two majestic volcanoes connected through a small strip of land. Ometepe is currently one of the destinations admired by both local and international tourists for its nature, hospitality, beautiful landscapes, the two volcanoes, a rich archeological background, relaxing beaches and its numerous natural reserves and forests that enjoy a high biodiversity.
Day 02: Free day in Ometepe. Villa Paraiso Hotel (B).
For ages, the island has represented a paradisiacal destination. According to stories obtained by historians, indigenous tribes traveled from up north to find a paradise as foreseen in a vision by their prophets; a place formed by two hills which they found at Ometepe while traveling down south. The island consequently transformed into a sanctuary inhabited by a mix of different tribes and cultures – something that is revealed by the immense amount of petroglyphs, ceramics, and statues that can be found all throughout the island. The island is currently inhabited by friendly people who love their territory, dedicated to fishing and high quality agricultural production which is made possible by the fertile soil. More recently, the ometepinos (inhabitants of Ometepe) have started to attend tourists and nowadays the island houses numerous establishments offering lodging, food, tours, and other services that enable tourists from all over the world to visit and explore this paradise.
Day 03: Transfer to Granada. Alhambra Hotel (B)
Nature and history. These are the elements that prevail in Granada, a small yet interesting department of Nicaragua's Pacific area. An extinct volcano, elongated coasts on Lake Cocibolca (Lake Nicaragua), an archipelago and the oldest city in the country, which still preserves original historic colonial center, are some of the attractions. The city of Granada is one of the most important and most visited destinations in Nicaragua. The colonial architecture of its old center, many museums, galleries, hotels, restaurants, bars and a cosmopolitan ambiance make this city a destination itself. However, it also be could be a good starting point to explore the region.
Day 04: Full day at Granada. Hotel Alhambra (B)
The Mombacho Volcano, which features an exotic cloud forest, is situated in this department. Some water sports can be practiced around the shores the department has on Lake Nicaragua, which asre also ideal for a good swim. The interesting and easily accessible archipelago of 'Las Isletas', constituted by more than 300 small islets, is also located here. Furthermore, the enigmatic Zapatera Archipelago - which preserves part of its forest and an archaeological pre-Columbian treasure, is situated on the lake. Other interesting sites are the peasant farms that offer rural tourism activities, such as those located in the city of Nandaime, Diriá and Diriomo. The last two cities are also part of the 'Bewitched Villages', together with other cities of Masaya. The Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve covers some of the territory of this department.
Day 05: Transfer to Managua airport, and Local flight to Corn Island. Paraiso Club Hotel (B)
The Corn Islands are two islands 70 kilometers off the Caribbean Coast, in front of the city of Bluefields. These two islands offer a superb opportunity to see the Caribbean side of Nicaragua in a beautiful and mostly unexplored environment. The regular ‘Caribbean’ features are all present: turquoise water, white beaches, green palm trees and stunning reefs and marine life. The islands are a perfect place to undertake adventurous sports like diving or sea fishing, but they are also a great spot to relax, enjoy the beach, and tranquilly explore the surroundings. Temperatures hover around 30°C year-round. Paraiso Beach Hotel is a well known Corn Island resort, with 14 rooms, all decorated in traditional Nicaraguan style. They are made to make you feel right at home. All accommodations are about 60 meters from the beach. Right in front of Paraiso's beach it's very good snorkelling, even for beginners. The sunken ships provide shelter for many different species of reef fish. The lodge organizes regular snorkelling trips around Corn Island or to Little Corn Island. Fishing, golfcar tours, diving or biking are all options you might want to explore. The on-site restaurant "The Buccaneer" offers great fresh food and lobster, shrimp or fish are of course a big part of the menu.
Day 06: Free day in Corn Island. Paraiso Club Hotel (B)
Development of the tourism sector is still at its infancy at the Corn Islands, and the tourism infrastructure is small-scale and in its early stages. There are consequently many charming sites with great, personal attention. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and ocean fishing are all excellent. Big corn island is quite picturesque. Visitors can experience the tropical nature of the island by hiking into the hills. There are two big beaches and lots of tiny and remote ones. A boat trip around the island will showcase its natural beauty. Picnic Beach (the picnic center) is the cleanest and most beautiful, with fine sand and gentle waves.
Day 07: Local flight to Managua and transfer back to Peñas Blancas Border. Continue your trip in Costa Rica!
Includes:
- Lodging at hotels as mentioned or similar. Breakfast and Taxes.
- Private overland transfers: Peñas Blancas- Granada, Granada – Corn Island, Corn Island – Peñas Blancas.
- Ferry fees: San Jorge – Moyogalpa – San Jorge
- Local flight: Managua – Corn Island – Managua.
Excludes:
- Migration fees
- Personal expenses
- Services of English speaking guide
- Tours / activities optionals
- Entrance fees
Price Conditions:
Price per person in US dollars, based on double occupancy.
Includes local taxes. Subject to availability.
Additional cost might apply if traveling between Dec 20 – Jan 05 or Easter Week (Apr 01-08) 2012
Rate Valid Year Round
US$ 1,015,00 per person
November 01, 2011 to October 31, 2012
Important Note:
What makes us different? You can customize your trip to fit your exact needs. Maximize fun time and minimize hassles, mistakes and travel time. Every detail from airport pick-up to adventure tours and activities are arranged by us to make sure the only thing you have to worry about is having fun. Use our quick and easy trip customization form and find out how affordable your dream Costa Rica vacation can be! With CRS you don´t just vacation in Costa Rica, you experience it!
What To Bring:
The most important things to bring are your travel documents: a valid passport, flight and hotel information, health insurance card and driver's license (if you plan on renting a car in Costa Rica). We advise you to make three copies of these documents. Put one copy in your carry-on bag, one copy in your suitcase and leave one copy at home.
Basic Tropical forests, colorful wildlife and spectacular beaches are part of daily life in Costa Rica. The climate varies depending on where you are, so pack accordingly.
1 Prepare for hot, humid summers. Shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, skirts and tank tops in lightweight fabrics should keep you cool. Take a sweater for evenings at a higher elevation.
2 Bring plenty of sunblock. Also include insect repellent, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a swimsuit.
3 Take rubber-soled sandals or hiking boots for journeys into the rain forests. Flip-flops and sandals are great for resorts and hanging out by the beach.
4 Pack separate clothes for evenings. Simple dresses are great for women, while men will do well in long shorts and a button-down shirt.
5 Prepare for cool winters, particularly in the northern regions and at higher elevations. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are a must, while a fleece jacket or a sweater is advisable.
6 Take an umbrella if you plan to travel between May and November - Costa Rica's wettest period. A rain slicker will come in handy while hiking.
7 Take an electric converter and adapter.
