The Ultimate Nicaragua Itinerary (For 1, 2, or 3 Weeks)

Whether you have 1, 2, or 3 weeks to spend, this Ultimate Nicaragua Itinerary will guide your incredible adventure through Nicaragua.

From life-changing volcano hikes, surfing the best waves on the Pacific, discovering the Highland rainforests, and relaxing on pristine Caribbean islands, to kayaking on stunning lakes, and experiencing Nicaragua’s tranquil, easy-going lifestyle and warm people, this country is truly magical.

After living in this enchanting land for many months (with no plans of leaving!), I know first-hand how it feels when Nicaragua steals your heart.

What they say is true: there’s just something about Nicaragua. As you follow this Nicaragua itinerary – over potholed dirt roads and through lush jungles – I know you will feel the same!

In our Ultimate Nicaragua Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks, you’ll find everything you need for an incredible trip to Nicaragua.

From must-visit destinations, epic day trips, and the best lodging suggestions, to top-notch food recommendations, hidden gems, and must-know travel tips, we’ve covered it all!

Nicaragua Travel Itinerary (For 1, 2, or 3 Weeks)

So, you’ve decided to travel around one of the most beautiful and untouched countries in Latin America. There are so many Incredible Reasons to Visit Nicaragua, so you’ve made the right choice. Get excited!

Whether you have one, two, or three weeks to explore this vast and plentiful land of lakes and volcanoes, our Nicaragua itinerary sprinkles in a bit of everything. Of course, there are many possible options, so feel free to mix and match to your liking! 

Here’s a quick overview of our recommended Nicaragua itinerary.

1-3 Weeks in Nicaragua Itinerary: Overview

• Days 1-4: Granada and a day trip to Laguna de Apoyo (Go straight to Granada from Managua airport)
• Days 5-7: Isla de Ometepe
• Days 8-11: Popoyo Beaches
• Days 12-14: León
• Days 15-21: Corn Islands OR Northern Highlands

Want a printable copy of this Nicaragua itinerary? Click here to get yours!

Week 1 in Nicaragua

Welcome to Nicaragua!

Kick off your Nicaragua itinerary with city vibes in the colorful and historic colonial city of Granada. Enjoy meandering through the city center, floating around the isletas, viewing molten lava at Masaya Volcano, and playing in the volcanic crater lake of Laguna de Apoyo.

For the second half of your one week in Nicaragua, get rugged and remote on the volcanic island of Isla de Ometepe. While you’re on the mystical island, enjoy volcano hikes, an epic kayaking trip, and rides around the island on a motorcycle. Or, simply kick back and sip on coco locos*.

*If you don’t already know, a coco loco is a fresh coconut with a huge splash of rum inside! If you’re good with dairy, definitely add the sweet condensed milk, too.

Days 1-4: Granada

Granada is simply one of the most charming colonial cities in Central America, and a must on any Nicaragua itinerary.

Granada boasts five iconic colonial churches, incredible restaurants and street food vendors, and of course Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America! Plus, brightly painted buildings offer photo opportunities at every corner.

How to Get to Granada

It’s super simple to travel to Granada from Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (ACS) in the capital city of Managua; it’s just under an hour away.

You can find a taxi outside of the airport or take the chicken bus for just a few dollars to experience some local culture. Or, if you prefer an affordable private transfer (hello, air conditioning), then click here to book your private transportation!

Top Things to Do in Granada

These are some of the must-do activities in and around Granada, Nicaragua:

• Explore the Isletas on Lake Nicaragua via this boat and city tour, or this kayak tour, or on a party boat tour
• Take a guided historical walking tour through the city
• Hike up the Masaya Active Volcano (I recommend booking this night tour, so you can see the fiery lava aglow! There is also a private night tour option for a more intimate experience.)
• Take a day trip to beautiful Laguna de Apoyo
• Summit the Iglesia de la Merced Bell Tower (at sunset, preferably)
• Sign up for a Chocolate Workshop at ChocoMuseo to learn how to make chocolate from scratch
• Explore the local mercado (market) to check out traditional Nicaraguan food and culture

Want some more Granada, Nicaragua travel inspiration? Check out our guide to 10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua!

Hot tip: This combo tour includes a private guided city tour of Granada, an afternoon trip to Laguna de Apoyo, and a nighttime excursion to the Masaya Volcano! Click here to book this tour.

Where to Stay in Granada

One of my Top 10 Reasons to Visit Nicaragua is how affordable the cost of travel is! Especially when it comes to luxury accommodation. While in Granada, why not splurge on one of the most stylish places to stay – that won’t break the bank? Here are some of my favorites! 

Affordable Luxury

• Hotel Plaza Colon: Boutique hotel is in front of the main plaza with a huge blue tiled swimming pool and chic bar
• Hotel Dario: Iconic blue and white colonial building turned boutique 5-star hotel
• Tribal Hotel: The definition of stylish indoor-outdoor living in the heart of Granada

Budget

• Selina: The perfect place to kick back and connect with others working online
• De Boca en Boca: A cute hostel with cute gardens and a bar

Still looking? Click here to find other amazing deals on accommodation in Granada!

Where to Eat in Granada

From chic cafés to traditional Nicaraguan food stalls, there are countless delicious places to eat in Granada. Here are a few of our favorites that you cannot miss!

• Garden Cafe: A famous spot with incredible, fresh food, and good vibes
• pita pita: Amazing Mediterranean cuisine… and sangria
• Pan de Vida: The best pizza in town! Try the calzone & amazing happy hour 
• VERDE: Boho decor, smoothies, coffee, and people-watching!
• TostoMetro: Home of the legendary tostone burger, plus delicious veggie burgers for our plant-based friends

HOT TIP: Want a printable copy of this Nicaragua itinerary? Click here to get yours!

Days 5-7: Isla de Ometepe

The infinity-shaped Ometepe Island – in the center of the largest lake in Central America – is made of two volcanoes: Concepción and Maderas.

Ometepe is the perfect destination for the intrepid traveler backpacking Nicaragua, as well as for anyone looking to soak up this country’s stunning vistas and relax in the jungle!

Promise, you’ll enjoy Isla de Ometepe because of its unique local Nicaraguan life, delicious food, and one-of-a-kind vibes.

How to Get to Ometepe Island

To get to Ometepe Island from Granada, take a bus or taxi to the port of San Jorge, just about an hour away from the city center.

From the port of San Jorge, purchase a 50 cordoba ferry ticket to either of the ports on Ometepe Island: Matagalpa or Santa Cruz. I recommend port Matagalpa, since this larger town has groceries and a multitude of moto and scooter rentals.

Top Things to Do on Ometepe Island

There’s no shortage of amazing things to do on this magical island. A few of my favorites include:

• Explore the whole island by scooter, motorcycle, or ATV (well, the paved portion anyway; part of the island is totally rural!). Click here to rent!
• Take a kayaking tour to get up close and personal with Lago Cocibolca
• Hike up the majestic Maderas volcano or Concepción volcano
• Swim in Ojo de Agua, a refreshing mineral water pool, perfect for cooling off after a hike!
• Relax on Playa Mangos
• Explore our guide to the best things to do on Ometepe Island!

Where to Stay on Ometepe Island (Santo Domingo to Balgue Area)

Volcano views are non-negotiable while staying on Ometepe! Here are the best places to choose from:

• El Pital Chocolate Paradise: Glass treehouse cabins in the jungle! Enough said.
• Hotel San Juan Ometepe: Cute cabins on the beach.
• Totoco Eco-Lodge: Infinity pool and view of Concepción volcano? Yes, please. 
• Hotel La Omaja: A lovely little hotel featuring an epic pool and views of Concepción volcano.

Still looking? Click here to find other amazing deals on accommodation on Ometepe Island!

Where to Eat on Ometepe Island

• Pizzeria Mediterranea: Brick-oven pizza, made by a true southern Italian (my Italian boyfriend says maybe the best Pizza in Central America)
• Café Mi Casita: Super rich, authentic Nicaraguan comedor
• Café Campestre: Healthy and comprehensive menu
• Soda Los Antojitos: Great Nica food in the port city
• El Picante Mexican Restaurant: It’s rare to find good Mexican food in Nicaragua

Week 2 in Nicaragua

To begin your second week in Nicaragua, relax and recharge by the Pacific Ocean in the quaint beach town of Popoyo (about an hour north of party town San Juan del Sur). There, take in the epic sunsets while horseback riding and enjoy multiple world-class surf breaks within walking distance of each other.

For the second half of your two weeks in Nicaragua, explore the colonial city of León. Between visiting cafés and museums, go for a Nicaraguan adventure by sandboarding down the side of the Cerro Negro volcano!

Note: If you arrive back to the mainland from Ometepe Island on a Sunday, and if you love a good party, then stay a night in San Juan del Sur for Sunday Funday! I recommend staying the night at Hotel Alcazar.

Days 8-11: Popoyo

Popoyo is Nicaragua’s most famous surf spot. Considering its proximity to Costa Rica, Popoyo is an easy destination for those traveling along Central America’s Pacific coast.

Popoyo is exactly what you’d picture a Nicaraguan beach town to look like. Dirt roads, farm animals, multiple world-class surf breaks, and a smattering of beachfront hotels, hostels, lodges, and restaurants.

Since the area is small, I recommend checking out two nearby areas, too. I love Playa Guasacate just north of Popoyo for its relaxed vibe and fun atmosphere. Just south of Popoyo, you’ll find Rancho Santana, a high-end neighborhood home to the famous beach break Playa Santana, breaking on the left and right. You can’t go wrong!

How to Get to Popoyo

From Ometepe, simply take the ferry back to San Jorge and hop in a taxi. You can also take the bus from nearby Rivas (just take a taxi there first). Popoyo is about an hour from the ferry dock in San Jorge.

Top Things to See & Do in Popoyo

While in Popoyo, don’t miss these unforgettable experiences:

• Sunset at Magnific Rock
• Surf Beginner’s Bay in Popoyo
• Enjoy a beer and watch surfers at Finca Popoyo
• Ride horses on the beach
• Check out our guide to all the best things to do in Popoyo, Nicaragua!

Where to Stay In & Around Popoyo

From yoga retreats to surf lodges, here are the best beachy places to stay in and around Popoyo!

• Magnific Rock Surf Resort & Yoga Retreat
• 99 Surf Lodge
• Hotel Club Surf Popoyo (in Guasacate)

Still looking? Click here to find other amazing deals on accommodation in Popoyo!

Where to Eat In & Around Popoyo

• Yolanda’s Café: in the village, real Nica food and big portions
• Paolone Restaurante: incredible Italian food, try the lasagna!
• Rest Kathere Abierto: authentic comedor in Guasacate 
• La Finca y el Mar: amazing food, even better ambiance

HOT TIP: Want a printable PDF of this Nicaragua itinerary? Click here to get it!

Days 12-14: León

León is Nicaragua’s other famous colonial city. It’s known for being a bit more lively and local – and a little less touristy than Granada. In addition to the grand white León Cathedral, there are endless colorfully painted buildings, churches, park squares, and some amazing museums showcasing Nicaragua’s history.

You can book a guided walking tour, or explore on your own. (Either way, make sure to check out all the street art!) I also suggest a few day trips for those looking to connect with nature and see the nearby tourist attractions.

How to Get to León

From Popoyo, just take a bus or taxi directly to the León city center.

Top Things to See & Do in León

It’s time for a little more city exploration. While in León, these are the experiences you can’t miss!

• Take a guided walking tour of the historic city center
• Go on a sandboarding tour at the Cerro Negro volcano
• Explore the Somoto Canyon on a private tour
• Summit the Telica Volcano at sunset
• Learn about the city’s culture on a León Food Tour
• Explore the Centro de Arte Fundación Ortíz Gurdián
• Visit the Museo Nacional de la Revolución 
• Take a day trip to Playa Las Peñitas

Where to Stay in León

Not sure where to stay in León? I’ve got you covered with my top picks below. Want to know the best part? They all offer free breakfast!

• Hotel La Perla: A stunning city oasis featuring neoclassical design and a beautiful terrace
• Hotel Flor de Sarta: A centrally located boutique hotel with a lovely swimming pool
• Hotel El Convento: Comfortable guest rooms and an amazing central garden, set inside a historic convent

Still looking for accommodation in León? Click here to find other amazing deals on accommodation in León!

Where to Eat in León

From traditional Nicaraguan food to globally inspired eats, León is home to plenty of great places to eat. Here are my faves!

• Coco Calala: Creative and delicious vegetarian restaurant featuring lovely garden dining area
• Pan & Paz French Bakery: Delectable French bakery serving sweet treats, savory dishes, coffee, and more
• El Bodegón: Amazing atmosphere. Come for a lazy brunch or enjoy the live music at dinnertime
• El Desayunazo: the best breakfast spot for cheap, local Nica food

Week 3 in Nicaragua

For your third and final week in Nicaragua, I’ve included two options. The first is a road less traveled, so to speak. The second is for those who love the island vibe. 

After two weeks in Nicaragua’s more touristy areas, you may prefer to adventure to the Northern Highlands region, which offers a cooler climate and a dense, relatively unexplored biosphere. Or, you may prefer the view of palm-tree-laden beaches and the Caribbean Sea on Big Corn Island and Little Corn Island.

Days 15-21 (Option 1): The Northern Highlands

Nicaragua travel itineraries often miss the Northern Highlands. Perhaps the lack of super comfortable accommodations is to blame. But I think that you should definitely consider exploring this part of the country!

After discovering the hot, busy city of León, visiting the lush northern areas around Estelí, Matagalpa, and Jinotega to hike in nature reserves could be just what you need!

Hot tip: I suggest renting a car in Managua for this last week so you can travel easier from town to town, as well as take in all the fresh air and stop for sights along the way! Click here to book your rental car! In Central America, renting a 4WD SUV with high clearance is always best.

How to Get to the Northern Highlands

Simply book a rental car or take a taxi, shuttle, or chicken bus along the Panamerican Highway to reach the cities in the north such as Estelí, Matagalpa, Jinotega, and Somoto.

What to Do in the Northern Highlands

• While in Estelí, visit a cigar factory. You’re in the cigar capital of Nicaragua, after all! This is an enjoyable and culturally rich experience – whether or not you’re a smoker. From picking the best leaves to rolling up with speed, your expert cigar tour guide will walk you through this traditional art form. After, you can purchase your own hand-rolled cigar and light up!
• Get a super caffeine buzz (if you partake) while enjoying a tour of a coffee plantation in the cobblestone town of Jinotega. Jinotega produces 80% of the coffee in Nicaragua – so you can get your beans straight from the source! There are a number of fabulous plantations to choose from, just take your pick. (P.S. Be a good mate. Make sure to bring some beans home for friends and fam!)
• Peñas Blancas Natural Reserve is a must. Picture misty mountain tops in the cloud forest, looking at a rainbow, while jumping off of Rainbow Falls into the crisp water below. If that sounds like the best place ever, Peñas Blancas is your spot! This area is virtually untouched, and is part of the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve (the second largest rainforest in the western hemisphere)!
• If you didn’t do the Somoto Canyon day trip while in León – or if you want more – make sure to embark on a canyon adventure.

Where to Stay in the Northern Highlands

You can use any of the towns in the Northern Highlands as a home-base for your adventures!

• Tierra Alta Ecolodge (in Matagalpa): Beautiful cabins, plus a restaurant and sauna
• Paysage Cache (in Estelí): A gorgeous garden, delicious food, and free breakfast
• Selva Negra Ecolodge (in Matagalpa): An all-in-one restaurant, cacao and coffee farm, and nature preserve

Where to Eat in the Northern Highlands

• Finca a Su Mesa: Farm-to-table dining in Estelí
• Selva Negra Restaurant: Farm-to-table dining in Matagalpa
• Cafetín y Lácteos El Quesito: Authentic Nica food in Estelí
• Soda El Tico: Authentic Nica food in Jinotega
• Restaurante La Vita è Bella: A popular Italian restaurant in Matagalpa

Days 15-21 (Option 2): Big Corn Island & Little Corn Island

Though I haven’t personally visited the Corn Islands (Big Corn and Little Corn) myself (yet!), everyone I’ve met who has raves about them. So I can’t not include them in this ultimate Nicaragua itinerary.

These two tiny islands off the Caribbean coast will whisk you away from the noise of the city so you can recharge. Under the sun. In a hammock.

You won’t find any paved roads here. Just palm trees, dive shops, and a handful of sunburnt travelers. 

How to Get to the Corn Islands

From Managua Airport, simply hop aboard a short 45-minute flight to Corn Island International Airport. 

Where to Stay in the Corn Islands

According to my sources, these hotels on Little Corn Island won’t disappoint!

• Yemaya Reefs Boutique Hotel (on Little Corn Island): Super luxe beachfront bungalows with amazing views
• Little Corn Beach and Bungalow (on Little Corn Island): More lovely little beach bungalows

Still looking? Click here to find other amazing deals on accommodation on the Corn Islands!

Where to Eat in the Corn Islands

If I were you, I’d head straight to these cafés and restaurants on the Corn Islands!

• Tranquilo Cafe (on Little Corn)
• Turned Turtle Bar & Restaurant (on Little Corn)
• Darinia’s Kitchen (on Big Corn)
• Pizzeria Italia (on Big Corn)

What to See & Do in Corn Islands

From what I’ve heard, some of the best things to do in Corn Islands include:

• Scuba diving (if you’re certified!) and snorkeling
• Horseback riding
• Going fishing 

Check out this article to read first-hand experience about these amazing Caribbean islands.

Budgeting for Your Trip to Nicaragua

As for a budget, Nicaragua is great because it’s much cheaper than other Central American countries (like Belize or Costa Rica).

As a baseline, I suggest setting aside around $25 for food, per person, per day. Obviously, if you’re into sunset cocktail-drinking (and the like), budget more! 

Depending on your budget for lodging, you can get away with around $100 per night, easily. $100 a night will ensure a super comfortable, even luxury, stay in Nicaragua. If you’re on more of a backpacking budget, you can easily get a dorm bed for around $10 per night, or a private room in a hostel for around $30.

Next, you need to factor in some guided tours and souvenir shopping in each place! Of course, how you spend your time and cash is up to you!

As a general rule of thumb, you should budget about $900 per week to travel comfortably in Nicaragua. I repeat: this is not a shoestring backpacker budget, this is a do-whatever-you-like kind of budget!

A two-week itinerary in Nicaragua will cost just under $2,000 and three weeks will cost you about $3,000. And obviously, if you’re splitting your hotel or hostel private room costs with a friend, that number will shrink considerably! If you choose to go to the Corn Islands, your travel expenditures will likely increase a bit (because you have to fly there, for one!), just to note.

Must-Know Nicaragua Travel Facts & Tips!

Nicaragua Weather + Seasons

This tropical country doesn’t have much variation in temperature; you can expect around 80 degrees Fahrenheit throughout most of Nicaragua, year-round.

Many appreciate Nicaragua for its drier climate, compared to other tropical countries such as Costa Rica. However, you should know that there are two distinct seasons in Nicaragua: the dry season and the wet season, with some overlap in between. The dry season is considered the high season for tourism and runs from November to April. May through October is considered the wet season, with the most rainfall during the month of October. Though travel is easier in the dry season, the country is more vibrant, green, and lush during the wet season. Just prepare for periods of torrential downpour! Though, normally, they only last an hour or so. Something to keep in mind for surfing: the wet season brings warmer water and bigger swells!

Bugs & Other Creepy Crawlies

Whether you’re backpacking Nicaragua or staying in high-end hotels and resorts, you will encounter many bugs.

Scorpions are something to keep an eye on; for example, don’t walk barefoot on Ometepe Island at night (learn from my mistakes!). In addition to other kinds of flying insects, mosquitoes are present year-round and can be very pesky. Especially near bodies of water, in the northern nature reserves, and on the Caribbean Coast. I recommend bringing plenty of bug spray (natural and organic bug spray, if possible).

Of course, you can purchase bug repellent at grocery stores and even at many hotels. In many hotels, you will find mosquito nets over the bed, but you can also pack one to ensure unbothered sleep! And overall, remember this: there are more bugs in Central America than in North America, for example. It comes with the territory, so get used to it! 

Nicaragua presents the perfect opportunity to get away from modern life and get up close and personal to nature!

Nicaragua’s Economy

While Nicaragua is, without a doubt, one of Central America’s cheapest countries to visit, it is also Central America’s second poorest country. Tourism is important to the economy and accounts for close to 5% of the GDP.

When you’re visiting Nicaragua, be sure to support local economies by buying from local craft and produce mercados, street vendors, and comedors (they have the best food!). Don’t be afraid to tip a little bit, either! After all, you’re exploring a beautiful country at a very reasonable price.

It would be remiss not to mention: try not to flash fancy designer clothes or lots of money, as pickpocketing or petty theft can be an issue. Don’t leave your shoes outside and be sure to lock your hotel when you leave! If there’s a safety deposit box in your room, use it. Though Nicaraguan people are friendly, non-aggressive people, occasional theft is not uncommon due to desperation.

Why You Need Travel Insurance in Nicaragua

Do not travel to Nicaragua without travel insurance. I can’t stress this enough! When traveling to intrepid destinations like Nicaragua, where outdoor adventure is the name of the game, roads are unpaved, and there are potentially dangerous animals around every turn, the unexpected can occur. Anytime. That’s not to scare you, that’s just to say, you’d be foolish not to be prepared. 

There are several benefits to buying a travel insurance policy before you travel to Nicaragua. They include:

• Trip Protection (for unexpected cancellations due to illness, injury, etc.)
• Emergency Medical Insurance (for medical and dental emergencies)
• Emergency Evacuation (so you can get to a hospital or back to your home country ASAP)
• Gear Protection (to cover the loss, theft, or damage to your bags, tech, and gear)

Whenever I travel, I buy my policy through SafetyWing, and I recommend you do the same! Their policies are affordable and cover a wide range of high-risk, adventure activities. Click here to purchase your policy.

Nicaragua Travel FAQs

The Best Nicaragua Travel Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks in Nicaragua

That wraps up our Ultimate Nicaragua Itinerary!

Whether you have one week, two weeks, or three weeks in Nicaragua, you’re in for a memorable trip, full of many different landscapes!

In 1 week, you’ll explore Granada, Laguna de Apoyo, and Ometepe Island. With 2 weeks in Nicaragua, you’ll go volcano boarding and explore the beaches north of San Juan del Sur in Popoyo. And in your third and final week, you can choose your own adventure. Whatever floats your boat – or kayak!

Since there’s so much to see, I hope you think about all the options listed and design the perfect itinerary for your special time in Nicaragua. Just don’t forget bug spray!

Over to you! Are you planning to visit Nicaragua soon? Have any questions? Leave them below!