After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a leisurely one and three-quarters hour drive north through a gorgeous tropical landscape punctuated by national preserves. This verdant region exemplifies Nicaragua’s nickname, the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” and all the while you will be edging toward volcanically formed Lake Nicaragua, a vast expanse of fresh water. It’s the only lake on earth with oceanic marine animals such as sharks and swordfish.

A magnificent colonial city nestled on the lake’s northern shore, Granada was founded as a trade center in 1524 by Spanish conquistadors. During the guided portion of your excursion, you will meander past colorful colonial architecture and hear about Granada’s turbulent history. The San Francisco Convent is one of the city’s oldest and most admired buildings, and it now houses a cultural center with fine pre-Columbian statues.

Following your guided tour, you’ll have plenty of free time to further explore on your own. Perhaps take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the cobblestone streets, shop in the serene central plaza, or sample the local cuisine from vendors with street carts. Chicaronnes or fried pork skin is a favorite snack.

One of oldest cities in Central America, Granada has a celebrated past, much of which has been beautifully preserved. In time, you will rejoin your coach and travel back to the pier, stopping along the way for a breathtaking view of the twin volcanoes towering above an island in Lake Nicaragua.

After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a leisurely two hour drive north through the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” the nickname given to Nicaragua because of its long history of seismic activity and the many lakes left in its wake. Arguably, the area’s most impressive natural sight is Masaya Volcano National Park, which features a massive crater lagoon, dense tropical vegetation and two towering volcanoes.

As you drive toward the rim of the still-active volcano, which most likely will be steaming and smoking, you will understand why the Spanish conquistadors called it the “mouth of hell” and erected a cross there to exorcise the demons inside. The crater and lava field below is quite the sight, and the landscape has changed little since the time when Nicaragua’s indigenous people conducted sacrifices there to avert more eruptions.

However, the scenery is vastly different in nearby Catarina on placid Apoyo Lagoon, which you will view from the scenic Catarina Overlook. Depending on the visibility, you might also catch sight of colonial Granada in the distance and massive Lake Nicaragua beyond. Feel free to peruse the unique market located at the overlook, where it's possible to purchase handmade leather products, beautiful embroidered clothing, delicate wood carvings, hand-painted ceramics and hundreds of other items representative of the country's unique and mysterious culture. Afterwards, you will drive through lush countryside and traditional villages on the return to the pier.

Begin your half-day exploration of authentic Nicaragua aboard an air-conditioned coach that will transport you through the lush, tropical landscape while your knowledgeable guide points out areas of interest and regales you with the history of this exotic and mysterious country. Then step back in time (the 16th century to be precise!) as you arrive at your destination: the Amayo Hacienda. This gorgeous, family-owned estate is located directly on the shore of massive Lake Nicaragua. Originally acquired by the Hurtado family from the King of Spain, you will be greeted by the current owners, the charming and friendly Barrios family who will graciously open their home to you. Learn about the estate’s long and colorful history as you indulge in a tour of the stunning grounds which feature gardens of swaying coconut trees and vibrantly colored tropical flowers.

Enjoy any number of activities offered for your pleasure. Sip delicious tropical fruit juice of the season while relaxing on a hammock or lounge chair. Get up and dance to the Latin rhythms of an authentic Nicaraguan band. Even try your hand at a milking contest with one of the cows from the estate’s dairy! Once you’ve worked up an appetite, sit down to a traditional Nicaraguan lunch served in a festive style. This "Caballo Bayo" as it is called, consists of multiple foods (meats, plantains, cheeses, etc.) which can be combined and wrapped in a tortilla for a tasty and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuits as you'll have the opportunity to take a dip in the sparkling waters of Lake Nicaragua, the 10th largest freshwater lake in the world. This impressive body of water was nicknamed "La Mar Dulce" (The Sweet Sea) by Spanish Conquerors who first believed it was a sea because of its oceanic qualities: large waves, heavy storms and nothing but water at the horizon.

Have your cameras handy as the lake's shoreline will offer up amazing vistas of the twin volcanoes, Maderas and Concepcion, which rise majestically out of the water to form the island of Ometepe in the distance. Though Maderas is dormant, a plume of smoke can sometimes be seen rising from the active Concepcion. The rich, fertile eco-system of this gorgeous blue lake and its volcanoes is home to many rare and exotic species of plants and animals, including the freshwater shark which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Begin your guided journey of discovering Nicaragua by boarding a comfortable, air-conditioned coach that awaits you at the pier. As you venture forth from San Juan del Sur, sit back and enjoy the beauty of the rolling hills and exotic flora and fauna that are unique to Nicaragua. Make sure to have your cameras ready for your first stop, Catarina; a breathtaking overlook that offers stunning vistas of some of Nicaragua's most beautiful landmarks combined with the beauty of mother nature, such as the Apoyo Lagoon formed 23,000 years ago when hot springs filled a volcano crater. You will also enjoy a bird's eye view of Granada, the picturesque colonial city founded in 1524 by a Spanish Conquistador, the Mombacho Volcano and it’s evergreen ecosystem, and Lake Nicaragua, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and home to a volcano chain of hundreds of beautiful islets. It is also home to the only freshwater bull shark on the planet. While here, peruse the unique market located at the overlook, where it's possible to purchase handmade leather products, beautiful embroidered clothing, delicate wood carvings, hand-painted ceramics and hundreds of other items representative of the country's unique and mysterious culture. 

Continue from here to the Colonial city of Granada. Once in Granada, step back in time as you visit this picturesque colonial city located in the shadow of the towering Mombacho Volcano on the shore of Lake Nicaragua. Founded in 1524 by Spanish Conquistador Hernandez de Cordoba, Granada’s historic churches and convents have withstood the test of the centuries including invasions from English, Dutch and French pirates.

Your guided walking tour here includes a stroll through the Parque Central, the city’s social, cultural and economic hub, where local artisans and vendors offer their beautifully crafted products for sale. Take time to marvel at the timeless beauty and historic legacy that has been preserved in this amazing city.

Prior to your scenic drive back to the ship, you'll be treated to a buffet lunch of traditional Nicaraguan favorites that include chicken medallions, sea bass, rice and beans, and dessert.

Sit back and enjoy a scenic drive through Nicaragua's lush landscape as your knowledgeable guide regales you with information about the region’s history and the exotic flora and fauna (including howler monkeys and countless species of orchids) that flourish here.

Arriving in the town of Rivas which is located near the shores of massive Lake Nicaragua, you'll commence a guided walk through its quaint streets. Learn about the city’s fascinating history that dates back to 606 AD when various indigenous tribes made their home here and visit the first Catholic church built in 1607 by the Spanish who first settled the city in 1522. As a result of different natural disasters that occurred over time, the church was rebuilt in 1820 but still retains many artifacts from the 17th Century. Marvel at the influences of these European conquerors which are still visible today in the amazing and colorful colonial architecture that is prevalent throughout the city.

Next, you'll venture to Amayo Hacienda, local lakeside venue where you will enjoy a closer look at impressive Lake Nicaragua. This massive freshwater lake was nicknamed "La Mar Dulce" (The Sweet Sea) by Spanish Conquerors who first believed it was a sea because of its oceanic qualities: large waves, heavy storms and nothing but water at the horizon. Relax and enjoy a complimentary beverage and snack as you take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the twin volcanoes, Maderas and Concepcion, which rise majestically out of the lake to form the island of Ometepe. The rich, fertile eco-system of this gorgeous blue lake is home to many rare species of animals, including the freshwater shark which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Following your visit, you will re-board your coach and transfer back to the ship.