CULTURE & SHOPPING

Join our Cultural & Shopping Day Trips. Unlock the treasures and intricacies of Nicaragua’s blend of folk and indigenous culture with our experienced and knowledgeable guide.

San Juan de Oriente -- Masaya Market -- Volcano Masaya

Departing in the morning in an air-conditioned vehicle, we make our way to San Juan de Oriente, home to potters celebrating proud pre-Columbian styles and more modern inspirations. Next is the markets of Masaya, Nicaraguan capital of folklore and handicrafts, and the richest in terms of handicrafts in Central America. The artisans of Masaya are known for making beautiful hammocks of international fame, woodworks, sculpted masks, clay ceramics and hand made embroidered blouses.

Our afternoon will find us up at the Volcán Masaya National Park, viewing one of the most visibly active volcanoes in the country, featuring several naked, gaping craters and a constant stream of sulfurous gas, visible from as far away as the airport in Managua.

The crater and its unique environs boast a visitor center, nature museum, hiking trails, and a road all the way to the dramatic abyss, which the Spaniards declared to be the very gates of hell. We will return back to San Juan del Sur in the late afternoon.

San Juan de Orient -- Masaya -- Laguna de Apoyo

Departing in the morning in an air-conditioned vehicle, we make our way to San Juan de Oriente. As you walk through the narrow streets, witness the magic beauty as locals turn their clay into pieces of art. On to the markets of Masaya, Nicaraguan capital of folklore and handicrafts, and the richest in terms of handicrafts in Central America. In Masaya you will have the opportunity to choose between a great number of local souvenirs to take to your family and friends.

Our afternoon will find us up at the cliff-side pueblo of Mirador de Catarina. Sitting on the edge of a volcanic crater is a town with one of the best panoramas in Nicaragua. Look for the red tiled roofs of Granada, broad Lake Cocibolca behind, and on a clear day, the twin volcanic peaks of Ometepe.