Ahh Granada, like many tourist spots, it has become a bit catered to them. That does not mean that there aren’t many good spots to see and things to do, it just for me takes away from the city. However, it is a beautiful city and well worth the visit! I spent about a week in Granada before heading out to San Juan Del Sur. Below are some of my favorite things to do on a budget and timeframe!
TOUR THE CHURCHES
There is no shortage of churches in Nicaragua as you can’t seem to turn a corner without seeing one. I tried to make a point to visit them all since they are all so beautifully built. I am not religious in the slightest, but it definitely worth spending a day to visit a few of these! Plus they provide a nice bit of shade from the sun and heat!
KAYAK OR BOAT AROUND LAKE GRANADA/NICARAGUA
There are over 365 islands in Lake Granada that you can kayak around. Not to mention it is one of the largest lakes in the world! There are tours to both Kayak or boat around. I opted for boating after a long day of hiking.
Boating Option: They take you to different islands and tell you the history of it. Some of these islands are home to million-dollar mansions, while others are home to wildlife, while others have restaurants. You can gaze on Volcan Mombacho the whole time while getting a lovely breeze off the water which was amazing since it was over 100 the day I went. We also stopped at an old stronghold, feed some monkeys, and then stopped at one of the restaurants on one of the islands for food and drinks before returning.
FEED THE MONKEYS AT MONKEY ISLAND
Ok technically this is part of the Lake Granada but it should not be missed! This small island inhabited by a few monkeys and they are not sure how they got there. You can visit them and even feed them! The monkeys respond to their names, like Micael Jackson and Michelangelo. The monkeys are quite spoiled and only wants cookies. I was told they have tried to relocate the monkeys but the monkeys did not want to leave, probably because they get feed so often.
VOLCAN MASAYA
This was the other highlight of my trip! Masaya Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Some of the other activities there are no longer open because of how active this volcano has become. I heard you could hike around and go through old lava tubes but it has since been closed due to the increased activity and sulfur. Some of the locals worry because they are not sure if or when it will erupt. You can still go up to the crater (even though I was told it was illegal?) and look into the raw power of Mother Nature. I booked an evening tour and it was basically driving up, stare and then head back. I wish I could’ve gone myself so I could’ve stayed longer. Make sure to go during the evening to get an even better view since this is something you cannot miss! (Sadly I cannot upload my video which is much better than the pictures!)
PAY RESPECT AT GRANADA CEMETERY
It is a bit of a hike out of central Granada and I may have gotten lost and bit worried, but the cemetery is worth it! It is quite old and very beautiful! There are huge monuments for the famous families and wall for those they do not know. I find old cemetery fascinating so this was a must-do for me!
SHOP AND PEOPLE WATCH IN THE CENTRAL MARKET
There is no way to avoid the central market and park. It is right beside the Cathedral and you will somehow always end up here. Here you can pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a cold drink while watching the locals.
DAY TRIP TO LAGUNA DE APOYO
A trip to Granada is not complete until you visit here! The laguna is located a bit outside the city and is actually in an inactive volcano crater! You can swim, kayak, play ball, or snorkel there! It is surrounded by trees on all sides and was much larger than I ever imagined. This may have been one of my favorite spots in all of Nicaragua. Of course, just bring some food and drinks. I stayed the night in a hostel that had a bar and food, but others who only came a couple of hours brought their food. This is an easy day trip for those in Granada as many buses go there or an easy overnight trip. Just make sure to pre book a room. I booked a private room in a hostel since it was so cheap and it was amazing!
GRANADA CATHEDRAL
Ahh, the famous cathedral. You cannot miss it. No matter where you are in the city, you will always see it popping out. You can walk to the top and explore a bit while getting the most breathtaking view of the city and surrounding volcanoes. There is also a lot of food and shade nearby if you need a rest!
EXPLORE THE BEAUTIFUL CITY
Lastly, just wander the city. There is so much beauty here to see and do. It is a bit touristy in places, but there are some amazing food and views.
I hope you enjoyed this post! Let me know if you have been here and what you thought?! I love hearing more and I hope I can return to Nicaragua again in the future to see more!
*This post was originally published on my old blog which I have now deleted. I did not want to lost this content so I have republished it here!
AJ goes abroad 