Day 11: Hike at Mombacho Volcano Cloud Forest and visit to Masaya areas
Early transfer to the Mombacho Volcano Natural, the dormant guardian of the city! This nature reserve it’s a 1400 meters high volcano that has been dormant for thousand years now and is totally covered with vegetation. This has created a rich ecosystem where live 50 species of mammals, 174 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles and 750 species of flora. A powerful truck will drive you all the way to the top of the extinct volcano. You will go through coffee plantations to the cloud forest which offers exceptional sites to discover its flora and fauna. Once at the top of the volcano you will hike in the cloud forest along the “Crater Trail”. On the way there are several lookouts that boast stunning views to the crater and its lush vegetation, the city of Granada, Masaya smoking volcano, Lake Nicaragua and the Islands (views available if weather permits it!). Duration: 4 hours approx. ~ Difficulty: Easy Following our hike in the cloud forest, we will visit the town of Masaya and its surroundings. First, we will visit Catarina to enjoy magnificent views to the Apoyo lagoon and San Juan de Oriente, where we visit a local workshop. Participate in the creation process of the beautiful souvenirs! Later, we take you to visit the Handicraft Market in Masaya city where you can enjoy the creativity and variety of Nicaraguan art at bargain prices. To end the tour, we will go for a nocturnal visit of the Masaya volcano, one of Nicaragua's most interesting and beautiful natural phenomena. Take a peek into the impressive crater currently displays gaseous activity and incandescent lava lake in its interior Note: Please note that due safety restrictions, visitors are only allowed to stay 15 minutes near the crater. Duration: 5 hours approx. ~ Difficulty: Easy Overnight at Hotel Patio del Malinche 2* – 1 Superior room. Meals: B, L