Traveling to Nicaragua in 2 weeks: a practical guide so you don't miss anything

Between active volcanoes, wild beaches, misty forests, and lively villages, I offer you a fully immersive journey, far from the usual tourist routes. Here is a 14-day itinerary designed to explore several facets of the country, truly taking the time to appreciate its diverse landscapes, without rushing!

Day 1 – Arrival in Managua and drive to El Tránsito

Upon arrival at Managua International Airport, head towards the Pacific coast to reach El Tránsito, a small, unspoiled fishing village – this is where I chose to settle! The atmosphere is peaceful, the landscape rugged, and the sunsets often spectacular. It's also an ideal spot for beginners to learn to surf.

Feel free to contact me if you would like to book a lesson.

2 Nights on site - accommodations for all budgets: hotel, hostel, Airbnb (from $20 to $100).

Day 3 – Heading to León: colonial city and volcano

Located about 1.5 hours north of El Transito, León offers a beautiful blend of colonial architecture and a vibrant nightlife.

It's a vibrant city, with real energy, more raw and authentic than Granada in my opinion. For adventure seekers, the hike up the Cerro Negro volcano offers a toboggan run down volcanic ash: a unique experience in Nicaragua. (Allow an afternoon)

Night in León - wide choice of accommodation.

Day 4 – From León to Estelí, then Miraflor

Continue north and you'll reach Estelí. From the village of El Sauce onwards, you'll see the stunning scenery! Estelí is known for its cigar production (contact me to arrange a factory tour), but it's also the gateway to the Miraflor Nature Reserve. You can stay on a local farm (called a Finca), participate in the coffee harvest, go hiking, or take a horseback ride.

Fauna & flora : more than 200 species of orchids, birds, snakes, etc.

2 nights in Miraflor or Estelí - Contact me for personalized accommodation advice.

Day 6 – The Somoto Canyon

Two hours from Estelí, on the border with Honduras, you'll discover the Somoto Canyon, one of my favorite experiences. Little known, this natural site is perfect for a day of adventure: hiking, swimming, jumping from rocks, and tubing down a spectacular canyon.

Note: Three difficulty levels are offered. I recommend the intermediate level: accessible but challenging.

2 nights in Somoto - Possibility to stay with a lovely local family with all-inclusive meals - Contact me for personalized accommodation advice.

Day 8 – Drive to Matagalpa and the Peñas Blancas Reserve

We continued our journey towards Matagalpa, a spectacular, mountainous region with a cooler climate. From the town, continue on to Finca Don Chico . The road there is also quite exceptional; you'll wind your way almost alone through numerous valleys, banana plantations, and tropical wildlife—it's an experience! Nestled in the heart of the Peñas Blancas Nature Reserve, Finca Don Chico is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and discovering unspoiled nature.

It's possible to take the tour at night to spot the sloths, the guide is super friendly!

Wildlife and Flora: Puma, black leopard—the reserve is known for sheltering many endangered species! Last time I was lucky enough to spot a howler monkey, a white-headed monkey, and a spider monkey.

2 nights at Finca Don Chico.

Day 10 – Stopover in Muy Muy

While Muy Muy is a much less well-known reserve than Miraflor, it's well worth the trip. For me, it's the very definition of beautiful simplicity: a farm nestled in the countryside. Dozens of free, marked hiking trails, a secluded waterfall, and large groups of howler monkeys await. You'll likely be the only tourists in the area; it's an experience not to be missed.

1 Night in Muy Muy - Farm stay with a Dutch couple

Day 11 – Granada, the colonial city

Head towards Granada, arguably the most photogenic city in the country. Colorful, lively, charming, it offers a beautiful immersion in colonial architecture.

In Granada you will find many activities: a stroll through the historic center, a coffee on a terrace, a boat tour on the islands that border the lake.

Worth discovering: The San Francisco Convent Museum

1 Night in Granada - Accommodation available for all budgets

Day 12 – Mombacho Volcano

Spend the night in the heart of the Mombacho volcano rainforest. Hanging walkways, rope bridges, impressive biodiversity. I had a wonderful stay in Mombacho; it's perfect for disconnecting!

1 night on site , in an ecolodge at a Frenchman's place

Day 13 – Relaxing day at Laguna de Apoyo

Just 30 minutes from Granada, this freshwater lagoon is ideal for a relaxing day after a long drive. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply unwinding.

Overnight at the lagoon or return to Granada.

Day 14 – Free time or Masaya volcano

For this final day, several options are available:

• A leisurely visit to Granada

• Shopping in Masaya (local crafts)

• Night excursion to the Masaya volcano , where you can see the lava from the crater

Overnight in Granada or Managua if your flight is early.

Day 15 – Return to Managua

Allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes for the drive between Granada and Managua airport. Tip: Leave early if you are traveling on a weekday or public holiday.

See you soon in Nicaragua!

This tour allows you to discover Nicaragua in depth, without rushing. It blends nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation, while leaving room for spontaneity and encounters. A trip designed for those who want to experience the country, rather than simply visit it. Consider downloading my free guide, " The 3 Best Nicaragua Itineraries According to Your Travel Style ," to further enrich your stay!