TOUR BOOK

At Jicaro you’ll find the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. Venture out on one of our signature tours to explore the region’s natural wonders and rich culture, and we’ll get you back in time for a hammock siesta or a rejuvenating massage in our wellness center.

Our tour book includes various activities ranging from physically gentle to more challenging, and all excursions are led by a private guide who will eagerly teach you about the local flora and fauna, as well as Nicaraguan history, customs, and day-to-day living.

Please note that most tours require a minimum participation of 2 guests.

Explore Beyond the Island

Hacienda La Calera Hike & Hot Springs

Jicaro Signature Tour

Following a short boat ride, your tour will begin at the foot of the Mombacho Volcano which can be seen from the island. You’ll hike for 2 1/2 hours from Hacienda La Calera through fields of plantains, cacao and citrus fruit plantations, and stretches of tropical dry forest where you’ll observe the local flora and fauna. Your expert guide will tell you all about the forest and the cultural implications of farming on Mombacho which dates back to colonial times. Recharge your batteries at the end of the hike with a delicious picnic lunch and a blissful dip in the hot springs on the shores of the lake before heading back to Jicaro.

Duration: Approx. 3 hoursDifficulty level: •••Price: $75pp

Paddle out in a kayak and explore the wonderful ecosystem that surrounds our lodge. Your experienced guide will help you learn about the natural history of the islands, their importance in the region, and the theories around how they were formed. Along the way you’ll visit secret spots where you can float amongst beautiful water lilies and glide through narrow canals between the islets. Don’t forget your binoculars - you’ll likely observe a number of shore birds during the tour, and if you’ve got particularly sharp eyes, you might even spot a lake turtle or two.

Duration: Approx. 2 hours Difficulty level: ••Price: $35pp

Sunrise or Sunset Kayaking

Discover how it feels to soar like a bird above the canopy on this exhilarating tour. Head over to Canopy Miravalle, located just 25 minutes away, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime. You’ll be harnessed up and instructed on safety and technique and then you’re free to fly. The zip line is comprised of eleven cables with a range over 2km – ask your guide for tricks like zipping upside down or flying like superman, and you’ll come out a complete professional on the other side!

Duration: Approx. 2 hours Difficulty level: •••Price: $80pp

Canopy Zip Line

Join us to discover the famous city of Granada - the oldest on mainland America -, established in 1524 by the Spaniard Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba. Granada is considered one of the prettiest cities in Latin America and there’s plenty to explore. You’ll visit sites and colonial buildings as well as the San Francisco Museum, which preserves some of the most interesting indigenous ceramic and statue collections. Step back to pre-Columbian times to learn about Granada’s development; you’ll hear stories of real pirates and tales of civil wars that led to the city being burned to ashes, sacked and destroyed several times. Just like its streets and buildings, Granada’s history is colorful and impressive.

Duration: Approx. 2 ½ hours Difficulty level: ••Price: $60pp

Granada City Tour

Awaken at dawn to the fresh island breezes, or enjoy a memorable, fiery sunset on the lake as you paddle out by kayak or on a boat to discover the many birds that call the Isletas home. On this morning or evening tour you’ll explore the nearby islands before heading to the peninsula in search of birds such as Montezuma Oropendolas, Ringed Kingfishers, Purple Gallinules, and Northern Jacanas amongst many others. Don’t forget to bring the bird flashcard from your casita and your binoculars; if you don’t have your own, we’ll lend you some.

Duration: Approx. 2 hours Difficulty level: ••Price: $35pp

Birdwatching

Join us for a unique and relaxing boat tour where you’ll be able to appreciate our many beautiful islands, surrounding nature, and pristine landscapes. You’ll also learn about the lifestyle of the local people and about some of our sustainability projects as we pass by the peninsula. We’ll pack a cooler with drinks and snacks that you can enjoy whilst taking in the stunning views, and we’ll also have towels at the ready for those who wish to jump into the lake for a swim in the fresh, warm water.

Duration: Approx. 2 hours Difficulty level: •Price: $160pp

Island Boat Tour

If you’re feeling adventurous and up for a challenge, this is the tour for you. You’ll spend the day at the Mombacho Natural Reserve hiking for some 2.5 hours before climbing to “La Roca” lookout to appreciate one of the most beautiful views of Granada’s Islands, Zapatera, and the volcanoes of Lake Nicaragua. Take a quick breather and enjoy nature while you refuel with a tasty picnic lunch before your next adventure. The following zip line tour will see you flying high at 30m above the canopy trees!

Duration: Approx. 6 hours, full day Difficulty level: ••••Price: $150pp

Full Day Mombacho & Canopy Zip Line

During your stay with us at Jicaro, you’ll notice fishermen in their wooden boats using fishing lines or nets to catch fish. We invite you to be part of this unique experience where you’ll learn our traditional artisanal fishing techniques. Your guide will take you to the hotspots in search of fish and will also tell you all about life on these little islands. If you catch a tasty fish like tilapia, snook or rainbow bass, bring it back to shore and we’ll prepare it for you at the lodge.

Duration: Approx. 2 hours Difficulty level: ••Price: $45pp

Artisanal Fishing

Join us for a walk in the Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve. Your adventure will start at the foot of the volcano and end at the peak, with time en route to visit a coffee farm and enjoy a nice hot cup of Joe. At the top of the volcano you’ll visit the biological station to learn all about the cloud forest ecosystem before heading out into the mystical forest itself on the Tigrillo, Puma or Crater Trail to observe dense vegetation and trees dripping with orchids and bromeliads. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of Lake Nicaragua and the islands while on the trials, and your guide will keep you entertained along the way, educating you on the surrounding beautiful flora and fauna.

Duration: Approx. 5 hours Difficulty level: •••Price: $100pp

Mombacho Volcano Cloud Forest

Visit the most popular active volcano in Nicaragua… by night! Located in Masaya, this Volcano National Park is home to the majestic Santiago crater, one of the few places in the world where such an active volcano can be observed up close. During the tour your guide will also teach you all about geology, history, volcanology and ecology.

Scientists are unsure how long this rare natural phenomenon will continue, so hurry and come see it! There is no hiking involved in this tour.

5:30-7:30pm with 15 minutes viewing at the active volcano.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours Difficulty level: •Price: $80pp

Masaya Volcano National Park by Night

This tour begins with a visit to the Masaya Volcano National Park, home to the majestic and active Santiago crater, one of the few places in the world where such an active volcano can be observed up close. Afterwards you’ll visit the ecological museum, Nicaragua’s most popular open-air handicraft market located in Masaya where crafts can be purchased, and Catarina, one of the famous traditional towns where ornamental plants and flowers are grown. Bring a camera because here you’ll have spectacular panoramic views over the Apoyo Lagoon and surrounding region. Before returning home, we’ll make one last stop by San Juan de Oriente to watch artisans make their famous pottery, rounding off a packed day of culture and discovery.

Duration: Approx. 6 hours Difficulty level: •••Price: $150pp

Classic Masaya and Catarina

There’s nowhere quite like the Masaya Volcano National Park to see one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua up close and personal. It’s home to the bubbling Santiago crater, one of the few places in the world where such an active volcano can be observed from a matter of meters. On this tour you’ll also visit the ecological museum and Nicaragua’s most popular open-air handicraft market located in Masaya where crafts can be purchased. Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve, considered to have some of the cleanest and deepest waters in Nicaragua, will also be on the itinerary. These warm waters are perfect for a quick dip or relaxing swim.

Duration: Approx. 6 hours Difficulty level: ••Price: $150pp

Masaya Volcano, Handicraft Market & Apoyo Lagoon

Enjoy a 1.5 hour horseback ride in the morning or evening at Hacienda La Puerta, situated in the foothills of the majestic Mombacho Volcano. Along the way you’ll pass through pastureland and traditional cacao and plantain farms, enjoying glorious views of Lake Nicaragua and its little islands from afar. You’ll also be able to greet the farm animals you encounter en route. After your ride, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy a picnic before returning to the lodge.

Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours Difficulty level: • • •Price: $80pp

Horseback Riding

On the way to Cerro Negro you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Lake Managua, the impressive Momotombo volcano and Momotombito by its side, many agriculture fields and cattle farms too. Once we reach the volcano, a local guide will tell you all about the terrain and climbing, and about the equipment and gear for the adventure too – get ready to surf down the black sand! Afterwards we’ll head to León, the former capital of Nicaragua where you’ll visit the Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and do some further sightseeing around the city’s historical center. A tasty beachfront lunch is included, and you’ll have time to enjoy the waters. Catch the sunset before returning to Jicaro.

Duration: Approx. 12 hours, 6am-6pm Difficulty level: ••••Price: $500 per couple

Cerro Negro and Leon City

Set off early in the morning for the city of Matagalpa, located in the north of the country. It is one of the best places for coffee and you’ll see numerous plantations en route. After passing through the city, we’ll reach the famous Selva Negra lodge where our walking tour begins. We’ll explore the tropical forest and learn about the lush vegetation and biodiversity while experiencing rural life in the area. With some luck you’ll be able to observe many birds too. At the lodge, lunch will be served by the picturesque lake before we visit the city of Matagalpa, known as the “Perla del Septentrión” for its natural features, as well as the “Capital of Production” for its varied agricultural and commercial activities.

Duration: Approx. 12 hours, 6am-6pm Difficulty level: ••Price: $400 per couple

Matagalpa & Selva Negra

VIP Flor de Caña & Leon City

Learn all about the history and production of Flor de Caña, the famous Nicaraguan rum on this expert-led tour of the factory. You’ll get to sample the unique flavors of this world-class rum as you explore the family reserve, and you’ll also visit the aging room where the rum acquires its color, aroma and flavor.

Having enjoyed one of the most awarded rums in the world, you’ll continue to the city of León to explore its beautiful architecture, history, culture and more.

Tours available from Tuesday to Sunday. Lunch included.

Duration: Approx. 10 hours Difficulty level: •Price: $600 per couple

Take a journey into the flavors, colors and aromas of the Nicaraguan cuisine as we take you through a number of our iconic dishes. We’ll begin in Granada’s central park with a famous Vigorón followed by something special for those of you with a sweet tooth including some delicious Cajeta in the town of Diriomo.

In Masaya and the white towns, we’ll go “a lo Nica”, taking you completely off the beaten path. In the town of San Juan de Oriente, you’ll try Chicha Bruja (Witch’s Brew) and Mondongo, a local soup, as tasted by Anthony Bourdain. In Catarina, the must-try dishes include Rellenitas, Güirilas, and Atol – it’ll be hard to pick a favorite! In Masaya, the Capital of Folklore, we’ll try some meaty Baho and wash it all down with a well-deserved coffee.

The authentic Nicaraguan food that you’ll try will be prepared and cooked in the street or in homes and not under “Jicaro” kitchen conditions. Whilst all the different spots have been tried and tested by our founder Karen, we cannot guarantee that your stomach will be as strong as hers or a Nicaraguan’s!

Duration: Approx. 6 hours Difficulty level: •Price: $200 per couple

Street Food Tour for Adventurous Foodies

Did you know that Jicaro has a sister private island on Lake Nicaragua? We invite you to enjoy the virgin paradise of our untouched Níspero Island, located just a short boat or kayak ride from the Lodge. Lounge around in hammocks, paddleboard along the shores, and savor a BBQ lunch. Pick your own mangos, book a massage, and enjoy Níspero as you please!

We’ll help you feel right at home on this “deserted” island and set you up with everything you might need for exploring and enjoying: a cooler with refreshments, some towels for swimming, a first aid kit just in case, and plenty more.

Níspero is yours to discover all alone, but personalized service will only ever be a walkie talkie call away. When it’s lunch time or if you have any requests, you can always give us a buzz. Otherwise, we won’t be disturbing the beautiful tranquility of your little island retreat.

Duration: Flexible Difficulty level: •Price: $200 per couple

El Níspero – Your Very Own Island

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at such an eco-friendly, sustainable lodge? How do we process lake water to make it potable? What happens to the grey water and the leftovers from our meals? If these questions pique your curiosity, please join us for a sustainability tour around the island, where you’ll get inspiring insights into what we do to keep our operations as green as possible. We’ll show you around staff areas and you’ll see processes that you may not have even noticed.

For a deeper look into our sustainability efforts, we can also arrange a guided trip for you to the local Padre Nello School where Jicaro is involved in educational and infrastructural projects.

Option 1: Sustainability tour around the island: 30 minutes Option 2: Tour to Padre Nello School: 1 hour Difficulty level: • Complimentary

Sustainability Tour

As the sun goes down and the stars come out, enjoy a candlelit dinner out on our floating deck. With the bright moon illuminating the peaceful waters around you, this romantic dinner will undoubtedly be a memorable part of your stay at Jicaro.

Dinner includes private service, 3 a la carte courses for two and a bottle of house wine.

Time: 6pm Price: $220 per couple

Floating Deck Romantic Dinner

www.jicarolodge.com reservations@jicarolodge.com Reservations +(506) 4040-0416

Toll Free +1 844 747-7865 (US & Canada) Granada Iseltas, Nicaragua

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