Masaya and Catarina Day Trip from Managua

Travel to the beautiful towns of Masaya and Catarina on a guided day trip from Managua. Visit Masaya Volcano National Park to observe the active volcano up close; visit the town's craft market; and tour the Ecological Museum with your bilingual guide. Then, head to the charming town of Catarina, where you'll admire impressive panoramic views of Mombacho Volcano, the city of Granada and Lake Nicaragua. Enjoy traditional Nicaraguan music as you browse the streets of San Juan de Oriente and check out local artwork.

Escape Managua for the day and visit the small Nicaraguan towns of Masaya and Catarina. After pickup from your Managua hotel, head 18 miles (29 km) by comfortable coach to Masaya, a must-see while in Nicaragua.

Arrive at Masaya Volcano National Park. Declared Nicaragua's first national park in the late 1970s, Masaya Volcano National Park boasts more than 12 miles (20 km) of scenic roads and trails, and is home to two volcanoes, five craters and many different types of animals including monkeys and iguanas. With your professional guide, observe the active volcano up close from your vehicle! Then, head to the Ecological Museum, where you'll learn about the fascinating history, ecology and geology of Masaya Volcano.

After exploring the volcano, visit a craft market in the town of Masaya, where you'll see all types of local crafts such as clothing to jewelry. You'll have time after your market tour for lunch (own expense) before continuing your journey to the town of Catarina.

Located only a few miles south of Masaya, Catarina is known for its impressive lookout point. From this scenic spot, admire gorgeous panoramic views of Granada, Lake Nicaragua and Mombacho Volcano before heading into town for a stroll along the colonial streets. Pass various restaurants and street vendors selling fresh fruit. Stop in San Juan de Oriente, a nearby municipality, and observe local artists at work and enjoy street musicians playing traditional Nicaraguan music before heading back to your Managua hotel.

• Entrance fees
  
• Professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide
  
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

• Food and drinks
• Gratuities (optional)