Managua’s top tours deliver rich experiences of Nicaragua’s most compelling sights. The Masaya Volcano night tour stands out as a must-do, offering front-row views of bubbling lava in one of Central America’s most active craters. For understanding local culture, the Managua city tour efficiently covers essential landmarks and local markets in just half a day. The Granada combo tours earn high marks by pairing the colonial architecture with relaxing boat rides through Las Isletas.
We’re especially fond of the Laguna de Apoyo and Masaya combination tour – it smartly connects Nicaragua’s natural wonders while maximizing your travel time. The private tour options, though pricier, provide welcome flexibility and deeper cultural insights.
Let’s explore the best tour options in detail.
Key Points
- The Managua City Tour offers a comprehensive 3-hour exploration of Nicaragua’s capital, featuring key landmarks and accommodating wheelchair users.
- The Masaya Volcano Night Tour provides an opportunity to witness live lava and enjoy sunset views from the volcano’s peak.
- The Granada Isletas and City Tour combines a boat ride on Lake Nicaragua with a walking tour of the charming city of Granada.
- The Private Day Tour: Masaya and Granada offers a well-rounded experience, including visits to the Masaya crafts market, colonial Granada, and a chocolate factory.
- Budget-friendly options, such as the Laguna de Apoyo Day Pass plus Masaya Volcano Night Tour, offer great value for travelers.
Private Day Tour Exploring Masaya and Granada in Nicaragua
Although the Private Day Tour Exploring Masaya and Granada in Nicaragua offers a rundown of these two vibrant Nicaraguan destinations, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions.
Operated by NicaParadiseTours, this private day tour provides 24 travelers with a 100% recommendation rate. Priced from $125 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and various activities such as visiting the Masaya town crafts market, colonial Granada, Lake Nicaragua, and a chocolate factory.
Highlights of the tour include a boat ride to private islands, cathedral visits, and admission to Fort St. Paul and Mirador de Catarina. While some churches charge a $1 entrance fee, the boat tour costs $20 per group.
Pickup is available from hotels in Managua or the airport, with an additional $15 fee for pickups outside Managua. Travelers praise the tour’s flexibility and the knowledgeable guides, such as Anthony, Carina, and David, who provide historical context and beautiful scenery.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour Exploring Masaya and Granada in Nicaragua Review
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Masaya Volcano Night Tour
The Masaya Volcano Night Tour offers visitors a captivating opportunity to witness live lava and the striking beauty of the active Masaya volcano. This private guided tour departs from Managua and takes travelers on a short hike to the summit, where they can peer into the active and dormant craters and observe the bubbling magma below.
Guests will enjoy a sunset from the volcano’s peak, a truly breathtaking experience.
The tour includes private transportation and entrance fees, providing a personalized experience for only your group. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility make the tour accessible to most visitors, though it’s not recommended for those with asthma.
Booking is easy, with confirmation received at the time of booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With a 5-star rating from 9 reviews, this Masaya Volcano Night Tour is an exceptional value at $110 per person, backed by a lowest price guarantee and flexible reservation options.
Read our full review: Masaya Volcano Night Tour Review
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Managua City Tour
Managua City Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Nicaragua’s vibrant capital. This 3-hour tour covers the city’s key landmarks, providing insights into the country’s history and culture.
Highlights include the serene Tiscapa Crater Lake, the iconic National Palace and Museum, and the bustling Puerto Salvador Allende and Roberto Huembes Market.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers a well-rounded experience. Comfortable private transportation is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience. The tour is accessible, accommodating wheelchair users and those with strollers.
With a 4.9/5 rating from 13 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by past travelers. Guides are praised for their expertise and personalized attention. Suggestions include providing water during stops to keep guests hydrated.
Priced at $98 per person, the Managua City Tour is a great value for the breadth of experiences offered.
Read our full review: Managua City Tour Review
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Amazing Masaya Volcano at Night Private Tour
Travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the captivating glow of Masaya Volcano’s lava flows will find the Amazing Masaya Volcano at Night Private Tour an unforgettable experience. This private guided tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, with 11 reviews averaging a remarkable 4.9 rating.
The tour takes visitors to the edge of the volcano’s crater, providing the chance to see the “Gates of Hell” and the mesmerizing orange hue of the lava.
The tour includes private transportation from the hotel to the crater’s edge, allowing guests to fully enjoy the experience. Knowledgeable guides, such as Julio and Franklin, share insights into the volcano’s dark history, once used by indigenous tribes for human sacrifices.
Now a protected area and popular attraction, the tour offers an opportunity to learn about the volcano’s geology and lava belt. Wheelchair accessibility and bottled water add to the convenient and comfortable tour experience.
Read our full review: Amazing Masaya Volcano at Night Private Tour Review
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Granada Isletas and City Tour
A popular day trip from Managua, the Granada Isletas and City Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and historic charm of this picturesque region.
The tour, which starts at 10:00 am, includes a boat ride on Lake Nicaragua to see the Isletas of Granada, a unique archipelago of over 300 small islands. Guests can spot local wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery.
The tour also includes a walking tour of Granada, visiting landmarks like La Merced and a chocolate museum.
With a private, customized experience and friendly service, the tour is rated 4.3/5 based on 6 reviews. Priced from $68 per person, the tour includes hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, a guide, transportation, food, drinks, and entrance fees.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for children accompanied by adults. Guests should note the additional fee for pickup/drop-off in Granada city.
Read our full review: Granada Isletas and City Tour Review
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Masaya Volcano Tour
One of the most popular excursions from Managua is the Masaya Volcano Tour. This guided tour takes visitors from Managua or Masaya to explore the Masaya Volcano, offering the chance to see glowing lava at night.
Priced from $53 per person, the tour includes transportation, a stop at the Visitors Center, and commentary from the English-speaking guide. Participants can also upgrade to include a live music performance at Port Salvador Allende.
The tour is private, with only your group taking part. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Inclusions feature hotel pickup and drop-off, a bottle of water, and the volcano entrance fee. While gratuities and additional food/drinks aren’t included, souvenir photos can be purchased.
The tour starts at 5:00 PM and isn’t wheelchair accessible, with children required to be accompanied by an adult. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall enjoyment of witnessing the lava.
Read our full review: Masaya Volcano Tour Review
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Private Sandboarding Tour Cerro Negro and the Central Park of León
This private sandboarding tour transports guests from Managua to the striking Cerro Negro volcano and the picturesque Central Park of León.
Rated 5.0 based on 5 reviews, the tour includes private transportation, a professional native guide, hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, and visits to the Blue Stones Viewpoint and the Cathedral.
Participants will receive a special suit and surfboard for sandboarding on the slopes of Cerro Negro.
Bottled water and fruit are provided, and guests will also receive a NicaParadiseTours keychain.
The tour price starts from £136.13 per person, with an additional fee of £15 for pickup outside Managua.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience and the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
Read our full review: Private Sandboarding Tour Cerro Negro and the Central Park of León Review
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PRIVATE Laguna De Apoyo Day Pass + Masaya Volcano Lava Tour
Travelers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of Nicaragua can embark on a private tour showcasing the tranquil Laguna de Apoyo and the captivating Masaya Volcano.
This excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entrance fees to the Apoyo Lagoon, which are redeemable for food and drinks. The tour also features a visit to a local chocolate museum for tastings and shopping, along with the opportunity to explore the islands of Lake Granada and the colonial city of Granada.
Optional activities, such as a walking tour of Granada and a boat ride, are available for an additional fee.
With a starting price of $70 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour provides a comprehensive and flexible experience.
Operated by Show Me Nicaragua Tours, the tour has received a 5.0-star rating based on one review, ensuring a high-quality and enjoyable outing.
Read our full review: PRIVATE Laguna De Apoyo Day Pass + Masaya Volcano Lava Tour Review
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PRIVATE Boat Tour + Granada City + Catarina Lookout
Designed for those seeking a multifaceted exploration of Nicaragua’s natural and cultural wonders, this private one-day tour from Managua combines a scenic boat ride, a walking tour of the historic city of Granada, and a visit to the iconic Masaya Volcano.
Guests will embark on a boat trip to Granada Island, where they’ll have the chance to spot a family of monkeys and various bird species.
The walking tour in Granada offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial architecture, including visits to local churches and eateries.
At Masaya Volcano, travelers can peer into the main crater and witness the lava flow.
The tour includes a personal guide and driver, round-trip transport from Managua, and flexible pacing to accommodate individual preferences.
While some inclusions, such as entrance fees to certain churches, are covered, the Masaya Volcano entrance fee and boat ride fee are not.
With a starting price of $85 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, this private excursion provides a well-rounded introduction to Nicaragua’s natural and cultural highlights.
Read our full review: PRIVATE Boat Tour + Granada City + Catarina Lookout Review
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PRIVATE Boat Ride + Colonial City Tour at Granada+Catarina Lookout
Exploring Nicaragua’s natural wonders and colonial heritage, this private tour from Managua takes guests on a boat ride to Granada Island before immersing them in the city’s historic streets.
The tour includes hotel or airport pickup, an expert guide, and a walking tour showcasing Granada’s beautiful churches. Visitors can enjoy a chocolate tasting and potentially interact with the island’s resident monkeys.
While the boat ride fee isn’t included, all other activities, food, drinks, and gratuities are covered in the starting price of $80 per person. The tour is private, so only your group will participate.
Confirmation is provided at booking, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
With a 3-star overall rating based on one 1-star review, this tour offers a customizable experience to explore Nicaragua’s natural and cultural treasures.
Read our full review: PRIVATE Boat Ride + Colonial City Tour at Granada+Catarina Lookout Review
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3 Full Day Tour at Granada, Masaya and Leon Area From Managua
This full-day tour from Managua provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic and cultural highlights of Granada, Masaya, and León.
Priced at $168 per person, this private tour includes hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, an expert guide, walking tours, and entrance fees to select churches and ruins. Guests can expect to visit iconic sites like the Granada Cathedral and the Masaya Volcano National Park.
The tour also includes a stop in León, where visitors can explore the Ruins of León. While the boat ride fee isn’t included, the tour offers great value, with a 20% discount from the original price of $210.
Pickup is available from your Managua hotel or the airport, with a start time of 11:00 am. Flexible cancellation policies and a lowest price guarantee make this an attractive option for those seeking a comprehensive day trip from the capital.
Read our full review: 3 Full Day Tour at Granada, Masaya and Leon Area From Managua Review
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PRIVATE Granada+Apoyo Lagoon and Masaya Volcano Night Tour
Although this private tour from Managua allows visitors to discover the captivating Granada, Apoyo Lagoon, and Masaya Volcano, it stands out for its night-time experience at the active volcano.
Operated by Show Me Nicaragua Tours, the tour starts at 11:00 am and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and entrance fees. Participants can enjoy the scenic Apoyo Lagoon, where they can spend the included $7 USD on food and drinks.
The tour also provides a chance to witness the awe-inspiring Masaya Volcano at night, with the guide capturing pictures and video for your.
With a duration of varying length based on group size, this private tour ensures an intimate experience catered to the group’s preferences.
Considering the reasonable price, convenient inclusions, and exceptional 5.0 rating based on a single review, this tour appears to be an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive exploration of Nicaragua’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: PRIVATE Granada+Apoyo Lagoon and Masaya Volcano Night Tour Review
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Private Lava Tour-Masaya Volcano From Managua
Travelers seeking an up-close encounter with the captivating Masaya Volcano can embark on a private lava tour from Managua. This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the volcano’s rich history and the “lava belt” that surrounds it.
The tour includes a drive to the summit for breathtaking photos with the lava as the backdrop, as well as a chance to walk along the crater’s edge for stunning panoramic views.
For those seeking an even more awe-inspiring experience, the nighttime tour offers the opportunity to witness the flowing lava. The tour is led by an English-speaking driver/guide and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the volcano entrance fee.
Customers can also purchase souvenir photos, and gratuities are included.
The tour has a starting price of $49 per person, with a maximum group size of 11 travelers. Pickup from the airport is available for an additional charge.
While the tour has received some negative feedback regarding customer service and reliability, the positive reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the overall experience.
Read our full review: Private Lava Tour-Masaya Volcano From Managua Review
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Laguna De Apoyo Day Pass Plus Masaya Volcano Night Tour
For budget-minded travelers, the Laguna de Apoyo Day Pass plus Masaya Volcano Night Tour offers a great value by combining two of Nicaragua’s popular attractions.
Located in Managua, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a driver/guide. At the Laguna de Apoyo, visitors can enjoy the scenic lake and redeem the $7 entrance fee for food and drinks.
The tour then transitions to the Masaya Volcano at night, offering a unique view of the active lava.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, including children accompanied by an adult.
Customers should note the tour operator’s response to a past issue regarding a government closure of the volcano, which they addressed by offering a free return visit.
Read our full review: Laguna De Apoyo Day Pass Plus Masaya Volcano Night Tour Review
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PRIVATE Tour at Granada+Apoyo Lagoon +Handicraft Market+ LAVA Masaya Volcano
This private tour from Managua offers travelers the chance to explore some of Nicaragua’s top attractions, including the picturesque Granada, the serene Apoyo Lagoon, and the mesmerizing Masaya Volcano.
Operated by Show Me Nicaragua Tours, the tour includes hotel or airport pickup and drop-off, and a maximum of 4 travelers per group.
At Apoyo Lagoon, visitors can swim, kayak, or simply relax. Admission fees for the lagoon and Masaya Volcano National Park are included in the tour price, which starts at $110 per person.
The tour also includes a visit to a local handicraft market.
The highlight of the tour is the view of the lava glow from the top of Masaya Volcano. Travelers will be accompanied by a knowledgeable driver/guide, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Photos and videos can be requested upon request. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour offers a convenient and hassle-free way to discover Nicaragua’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: PRIVATE Tour at Granada+Apoyo Lagoon +Handicraft Market+ LAVA Masaya Volcano Review
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Recap
Managua offers a variety of exciting tours to explore the region’s natural and cultural wonders. Visitors can enjoy private day tours to Masaya and Granada, witness the mesmerizing glow of Masaya Volcano at night, and discover the charming city of Managua. These tours provide a comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the diverse attractions Nicaragua has to offer.