Managua Itinerary
Overview
This two week Nicaragua travel itinerary begins in Managua, the capital city which serves as the country’s transport hub and offers a mix of historical landmarks and cultural sites. While not the main highlight, it’s worth a brief visit to explore its heritage.
How long to stay in Managua
1 day
How to get to Managua
Arrive at Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA). Taxi to the city center costs $10 (20-30 minutes).
Best hotels to stay in Managua
- Managua Backpackers Inn: Budget-friendly hostel with a pool. Book here.
- Hyatt Place Managua: Modern mid-range hotel. Book here.
- Hotel Los Robles: Boutique hotel with colonial charm. Book here.
What to do in Managua
- Visit the Old Cathedral of Managua, a historic landmark (Free).
- Explore the Revolutionary Plaza and surrounding monuments (Free).
- Walk along the scenic Puerto Salvador Allende, a lakeside promenade with restaurants (Free).
Where to eat in Managua
- Cocina de Doña Haydée: Traditional Nicaraguan cuisine ($$); Google Rating: 4.5.
- La Finca: Upscale dining with a farm-to-table concept ($$$); Google Rating: 4.7.
- El Garabato: Casual local dishes with a creative twist ($$); Google Rating: 4.6.
Modes of transport in Managua
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps are reliable.
- Public buses are available but can be confusing for newcomers.
Managua digital nomad rating:
3/5.
Pros: Good internet in major hotels.
Cons: Limited coworking spaces and few tourist attractions.
León Itinerary
Overview
León, a highlight of this two week Nicaragua travel itinerary, boasts stunning colonial architecture and vibrant street art that reflects its rich revolutionary history. The city offers a deep cultural experience with its museums and historic landmarks. It’s also the perfect base for the thrilling adventure of volcano boarding on Cerro Negro.
How long to stay in León
3 days
How to get from Managua to León:
Take a shuttle or bus from Managua (1.5 hours; $2-$15).
Best hotels to stay in León
- Hostel Tortuga Booluda: Budget-friendly with a social atmosphere. Book here.
- El Convento Hotel: A mid-range boutique hotel in a former convent. Book here.
- Hotel El Sueño de Meme: Charming boutique stay with authentic vibes. Book here.
What to do in León
- Climb to the rooftop of Catedral de León, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ($3).
- Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro, a unique adventure ($35).
- Visit the Museum of the Revolution to learn about Nicaragua’s history ($5).
- Explore Las Peñitas Beach, a quiet escape just outside the city (Free).
Where to eat in León
- Pan y Paz: Famous for its pastries and coffee ($); Google Rating: 4.8.
- El Bodegón: Local and international dishes in a rustic setting ($$); Google Rating: 4.6.
- Cocinarte: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly with creative dishes ($$); Google Rating: 4.7.
Modes of transport in León
- Walking or cycling is ideal for exploring the city.
- Local buses and taxis connect nearby attractions.
León digital nomad rating:
4/5.
Pros: Affordable, good internet, and plenty of cafes.
Cons: Limited coworking spaces.
Granada Itinerary
Overview
Granada, a must-visit stop on this two week Nicaragua travel itinerary, is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, celebrated for its vibrant colonial architecture and charming cobblestone streets. Its location near Lake Nicaragua and Mombacho Volcano makes it a hub for natural and cultural exploration. The city’s lively atmosphere and rich history offer an unforgettable experience.
How long to stay in Granada
3 days
How to get from León to Granada
Take a shuttle or public bus via Managua (3-4 hours; $5-$15). Private transfers are also available ($60).
Best hotels to stay in Granada
- Selina Granada: Budget-friendly hostel with a coworking space and central location. Book here.
- Hotel Casa del Consulado: Mid-range boutique hotel with colonial charm. Book here.
- Hotel Plaza Colón: A luxurious stay overlooking the main square. Book here.
What to do in Granada
- Take a boat tour of the Isletas de Granada, a collection of tiny islands on Lake Nicaragua ($25).
- Hike or zipline on Mombacho Volcano, known for its cloud forest and panoramic views ($40).
- Visit Convento y Museo San Francisco for art and history exhibits ($5).
- Stroll around Parque Central, the city’s bustling square (Free).
Where to eat in Granada
- Café de las Sonrisas: Great for breakfast and a unique deaf-staffed experience ($); Google Rating: 4.8.
- Restaurante El Zaguan: Famous for its grilled meats and Nicaraguan dishes ($$); Google Rating: 4.6.
- Bistro Estrada: Modern fusion cuisine with a cozy ambiance ($$$); Google Rating: 4.7.
Modes of transport in Granada
- Walking is the best way to explore the compact city.
Granada digital nomad rating:
4.5/5.
Pros: Reliable internet, great coworking spaces, and charming cafes.
Cons: Tourist-heavy at peak times.
Ometepe Itinerary
Overview
This two week Nicaragua travel itinerary continues in Ometepe, a stunning island formed by the twin volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas, rising from Lake Nicaragua. Known for its lush landscapes, it’s perfect for hiking enthusiasts and those seeking a serene escape into nature. The island’s blend of adventure and rural charm creates an unforgettable experience.
How long to stay in Ometepe
3 days
How to get from Granada to Ometepe
Take a bus or taxi to San Jorge port (1.5 hours; $20), then a ferry to Moyogalpa on Ometepe (1.5 hours; $3).
Best hotels to stay in Ometepe
- El Zopilote: An eco-hostel popular with budget travelers. Book here.
- Finca Mystica: Mid-range eco-lodge with a serene atmosphere. Book here.
- Totoco Eco-Lodge: Luxurious eco-accommodation with volcano views. Book here.
What to do in Ometepe
- Hike Volcán Concepción or the easier Volcán Maderas ($40 for a guided hike).
- Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Ojo de Agua, a natural spring ($5).
- Visit Charco Verde Reserve, a wildlife haven with scenic trails ($3).
- Rent a bike or scooter to explore the island’s charming villages ($10-$20/day).
Where to eat in Ometepe
- Cafe Campestre: Famous for its vegetarian-friendly and farm-to-table dishes ($$); Google Rating: 4.8.
- Comedor Los Cocos: Authentic local meals at a great price ($); Google Rating: 4.6.
- The Cornerhouse: Known for its hearty breakfasts and fresh smoothies ($); Google Rating: 4.7.
Modes of transport in Ometepe
- Scooters and bicycles are the most popular way to get around.
- Taxis are available but expensive for long distances.
Ometepe digital nomad rating:
3/5.
Pros: Quiet and beautiful, great for a retreat.
Cons: Limited Wi-Fi and coworking spaces.
San Juan del Sur Itinerary
Overview
This two week Nicaragua travel itinerary concludes in San Juan del Sur a vibrant beach town on the Pacific coast, known for its surfing, lively nightlife, and iconic Christ of the Mercy statue overlooking the bay.
How long to stay in San Juan del Sur
4 days
How to get from Ometepe to San Juan del Sur
Take the ferry back to San Jorge (1.5 hours) and a bus or shuttle to San Juan del Sur (2 hours; $10-$15)
Best hotels to stay in San Juan del Sur
- Hostel Pachamama: A social budget-friendly spot popular with surfers. Book here.
- The Surf Ranch: Mid-range accommodation with a pool and adventure activities. Book here.
- HulaKai Hotel: Boutique eco-lodge with stunning views and yoga classes. Book here.
What to do in San Juan del Sur
- Relax on Playa Hermosa, a pristine beach perfect for surfing and chilling ($3 entry).
- Hike to the Christ of the Mercy statue for panoramic views ($2 entry).
- Take a day trip to Playa Maderas, a surfer’s paradise (Free).
- Join the famous Sunday Funday bar crawl for a lively party scene ($35).
Where to eat in San Juan del Sur
- The Taco Stop: Affordable and delicious tacos ($); Google Rating: 4.7.
- Dale Pues: Casual dining with local and international options ($$); Google Rating: 4.6.
- La Cerveceria: Great craft beers and upscale pub food ($$); Google Rating: 4.8.
Modes of transport in San Juan del Sur
- Taxis and shuttles are widely available.
- Rent a scooter for flexibility ($25/day).
San Juan del Sur digital nomad rating:
4/5.
Pros: Good internet, vibrant community, and scenic workspaces
Cons: Can be noisy in town due to nightlife.
Extend your trip
Extend your journey by joining this two week Nicaragua travel Itinerary with the Two Week Costa Rica Travel Itinerary. Travel from San Juan del Sur to San José by shuttle or bus (8-9 hours, $30-$50 USD), crossing the border at Peñas Blancas. San José serves as the central hub for exploring Costa Rica, and the starting point for the Two Week Costa Rica Travel Itinerary.
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