San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Rivas, Lake Nicaragua and Scenic Drive

Discover Nicaragua on this half-day, guided excursion to the colonial town of Rivas. Visit the Catholic church, learn the city’s history, and enjoy a complimentary beverage and snack as you take in the beauty of the twin volcanoes, Maderas and Concepción, which rise majestically out of nearby Lake Nicaragua.

  • Visit of the City of Rivas.
  • Visit a hacienda next to Lake Nicaragua, with views of Ometepe Island and its volcanoes.
  • Nicaraguan history and culture
  • New destination to explore

  • Difficulty level

    Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed

  • Duration

    3 hours

  • Max. passengers

    300

  • Booking Code

    A-SJS5

  • From

    $ 65

  • Notices

    Light clothing, comfortable walking shoes

Your excursion begins at the pier where you will board your comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and depart San Juan del Sur for an exciting and informative half-day journey to discover exotic Nicaragua. Sit back and enjoy a scenic drive past the 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).

Disembark in the picturesque town of Rivas, located near the massive Lake Nicaragua, the tenth-largest lake in the world. Take a guided stroll through the quaint streets and learn about the city’s fascinating history, which dates back to 606 AD, when various indigenous tribes made their home here. Visit the first Catholic church, built in 1607 by the Spanish who first settled the city in 1522. Because of different natural disasters through time, the church was rebuilt in 1820, but contains many artifacts from the 17th century. Marvel at the influences of these European conquerors, which are still visible in the amazing and colorful colonial architecture that is prevalent throughout the city.

Venture to a local lakeside venue, where you will enjoy a closer look at the 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 on the horizon. Relax and enjoy a complimentary beverage and snack, as you marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the twin volcanoes, Maderas and Concepción, 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.

Practical information:

  • Included: Fruit, water, or soda

  • Remarks/requirements: Light clothing, comfortable walking shoes

  • Walking information: Yes. Flat terrain in Rivas, uneven terrain at the Amayo Hacienda

  • Wheelchair accessible: No.