Name: Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica
SKU: 17279P6
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.6 (619 reviews)

WizardTrip

Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica

4.6(619)· Tamarindo· By Native's Way Costa Rica Watch the video

Free cancellation

From

€209per person

1 to 15 travelers per booking.

Options3 of 3 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €209€209

Total€209

About the activity

Embark on an unforgettable full-day journey from Costa Rica to explore the best of Nicaragua. Discover the nation's stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and compelling history as you visit a dormant volcanic crater and marvel at the active Masaya Volcano. Hunt for unique local crafts and souvenirs at vibrant artisan markets, then wander through the charming colonial city of Granada, admiring its colorful architecture and historic streets. Conclude your adventure with a picturesque boat trip amidst the beautiful islets of Lake Nicaragua. Throughout the day, soak in breathtaking vistas, gain insights into Nicaragua's captivating past and culture from your guide, and experience the distinctive character of this beautiful country. From dramatic volcanoes and colonial buildings to bustling local markets, diverse wildlife, and magnificent lake scenery, this comprehensive day trip is crafted to showcase the very essence of Nicaragua in a single day.

What's included

✓Hotel, Condo, or House pickup and drop-off
✓National Park fees
✓All taxes, fees and handling charges
✓Bottled water
✓Lunch
✓Breakfast
✓Guide

What is not included

✕Gratuities

Itinerary

1
Mirador de Catarina
Enjoy 30 minutes at the spectacular Catarina viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Apoyo Crater Lagoon, Granada, and Lake Nicaragua. You'll have time to explore the area, capture memorable photos, and browse the local artisan shops for handcrafted Nicaraguan products and souvenirs.
· 30 min
2
Masaya Volcano National Park 2025
Continue to the renowned Masaya Volcano, one of the world's few active volcanoes where visitors can safely approach the crater. Witness the striking volcanic landscape, observe the rising gases, and feel the powerful energy of this unique natural wonder. Please note that time at the crater viewpoint is limited to approximately 5-10 minutes, adhering to National Park regulations.
· 15 min· Admission included
3
Granada
Discover the charming colonial city of Granada, celebrated for its vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and deep cultural heritage. Your visit includes a stop at the iconic La Merced Church. Guests have the option to climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Granada, Mombacho Volcano, and Lake Nicaragua. The bell tower admission is USD $1 per person and may not be available during holidays or special events. Indulge in a traditional Nicaraguan chocolate experience, learning about the chocolate-making process and savoring authentic local chocolate. You will then have free time to explore Granada at your leisure, browse local shops, relax in the central plaza, or opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city (additional cost). Prior to departing for Lake Nicaragua, enjoy a traditional Nicaraguan lunch at a local restaurant. This 2.5-hour visit encompasses sightseeing, personal exploration time, and lunch.
· 2 h 30 min
4
Lake Nicaragua
Experience a scenic boat tour through the famous Islets of Granada, a stunning archipelago of small islands formed by ancient volcanic activity. During the cruise, admire spectacular views of the lake, the surrounding islets, and the tranquil atmosphere of this remarkable landscape. Following the boat tour, we will commence our return journey to Costa Rica.
· 45 min
5
Native's Way
Your guides from Costa Rica to Nicaragua will provide direct pickup from your hotel and accompany you throughout the journey to the Nicaragua border. They will assist with every aspect of the border crossing process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. The border crossing typically takes around 30 minutes, though waiting times can fluctuate based on the season, holidays, weekends, and border traffic. Upon arrival in Nicaragua, begin your day with a wholesome traditional breakfast at a lakeside restaurant, offering beautiful views of Lake Nicaragua and the iconic Ometepe Island in the distance.
· 3 h
6
Playa Conchal
4:50 am
· Non-stop passage
7
Playa Flamingo
4:30 am
· Non-stop passage
8
Playa Hermosa
5:30 am - Secrets Papagayo, Villas Sol, Occidental Papagayo, Mangroove
· Non-stop passage
9
Playas del Coco
5:20 am
· Non-stop passage
10
Liberia
6:00 am
· Non-stop passage
11
Pinilla
4:00 am
· Non-stop passage
12
Tamarindo
4:30 am
· Non-stop passage
13
Tamarindo Beach
4:30 am
· Non-stop passage
14
Playa Langosta
4:20 am
· Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

You can present either a mobile or paper ticket. One ticket is required per booking.

Meeting point and return

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate - (extra fee)

Hotels and Peri Supermarket at main Liberia Intersection - 5:45 am

6:00 am

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate - 5:00 am (extra fee)

Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 5:30 am

Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gate and other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 5:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Coco - 5:20 am

RIU Guanacaste/Palace 5:00 am (Main gate, NOT Lobby)

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Grande - 4:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Catalinas - 4:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Flamingo - 4:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Conchal - 4:45 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Tamarindo/Langosta - 4:30 am

Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 4:00 AM - $50 fee per booking, not per person - billed separately

Please let security know we are coming

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate - (extra fee)

Hotels and Peri Supermarket at main Liberia Intersection - 5:45 am

6:00 am

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate - 5:00 am (extra fee)

Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 5:30 am

Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gate and other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 5:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Coco - 5:20 am

RIU Guanacaste/Palace 5:00 am (Main gate, NOT Lobby)

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Grande - 4:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Catalinas - 4:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Flamingo - 4:30 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Conchal - 4:45 am

Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Tamarindo/Langosta - 4:30 am

Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 4:00 AM - $50 fee per booking, not per person - billed separately

Please let security know we are coming

We offer pickups from hotels, condos, and private residences in the following areas:

Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 4:00 AM (additional fee applies)

Langosta/Tamarindo Hotels, Condos, Apartments, Houses: 4:30 AM

Conchal (W/Westin Conchal), Brasilito Hotels, Condos, Apartments, Houses: 4:45 AM

Playa Grande, Flamingo, Potrero Hotels, Condos, Apartments, Houses: 4:30 AM

Catalinas: 4:15 AM (additional fee applies)

RIU Hotels Main Security Gate, Not the Lobby: 5:00 AM

Playas del Coco Hotels, Condos, Houses: 5:20 AM

Playa Hermosa & Panama (Occ/Secrts Papagayo, Villas Sol, Condovac, Mangroove): 5:30 AM

Liberia Peri Supermarket: 6:00 AM

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood: 5:20 AM (additional fee applies)

Waldorf Astoria: 5:30 AM (additional fee applies)

Dreams Las Mareas: 6:00 AM

Please note that the pickup times provided are estimates. An official pickup time will be sent the day before the tour. Be ready outside your accommodation 10 minutes before the scheduled time, as actual pickup may take up to 20 minutes longer due to the day's schedule and traffic.

Entry to Nicaragua: Submit a photo of your passport to info@nativesway.com or via WhatsApp.

Requirements:

- Please send us a photo of your passport immediately after making your reservation.

- Carry your original passport on the day of the tour; copies or photos are not accepted.

- You will need to show proof of exiting Costa Rica within 180 days of the tour date (e.g., flight itinerary or bus ticket) when you return to Costa Rica after the tour.

Consult our expert team if you have specific requirements based on your nationality or passport.

Overnight Option:

- Accommodation is not included. Please inform us if you require assistance with booking a hotel. Provide your hotel details, return date to Costa Rica, and your drop-off location in Costa Rica.

What to Bring:

- Comfortable walking shoes

- Your original passport – NO copies or photos

- Flight itinerary (digital or printed)

- Sunscreen

- Rain jacket or dry bag

- Insect repellent

- Refillable water bottle

- Extra cash for souvenirs (USD)

Transportation Information:

We offer pickups from hotels, condos, and private residences in the following areas:

Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 4:00 AM (additional fee applies)

Langosta/Tamarindo Hotels, Condos, Apartments, Houses: 4:30 AM

Conchal (W/Westin Conchal), Brasilito Hotels, Condos, Apartments, Houses: 4:45 AM

Playa Grande, Flamingo, Potrero Hotels, Condos, Apartments, Houses: 4:30 AM

Catalinas: 4:15 AM (additional fee applies)

RIU Hotels Main Security Gate (not the lobby): 5:00 AM

Playas del Coco Hotels, Condos, Houses: 5:20 AM

Main Gate (not lobby) for the following: Occidental Papagayo, Secrets Papagayo, Villas Sol/Condovac: 5:30 AM

Liberia Peri Supermarket: 6:00 AM

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood Main Gate: 5:20 AM (additional fee applies)

Waldorf Astoria: 5:30 AM (additional fee applies)

Dreams Las Mareas: 6:00 AM

The pickup times listed above are estimates. You will receive an official pickup time the day before the tour. Please be ready outside your accommodation 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pickup time. The actual pickup may take up to 20 minutes longer depending on the day's schedule and traffic conditions.

Meeting point

Papagayo Peninsula

Papagayo Peninsula, Guanacaste Province, Liberia, Costa Rica

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Infants and small children can be accommodated in a pram or stroller.
This tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Full passport details (name, number, expiry date, and country) are required for all participants at the time of booking. Please ensure you bring your original passport on the day of the tour.
A departure ticket or proof of your flight out of Costa Rica is necessary.
If your hotel is not listed, please contact us for a personalized quote.
Entry into Nicaragua is prohibited with the following items: all types of drones, all types of binoculars (including night vision), and any equipment intended for professional, journalistic, or similar audiovisual reproduction.

Activity options

Private Day Tour
Includes private transportation and a dedicated guide.
Pickup service is included.
Shared Group Tour
Shared transportation and guide services.
Pickup times: 4:30 am from Tamarindo & surrounding areas, 5:30 am from RIU/Coco & surrounding areas.
Your exact pickup time will be confirmed upon booking.
Pickup service is included.
Group Tour: Out of Range Hotel
This option is for hotels located outside the standard pickup zones. Tours include pickup ONLY from JW Marriott/Hacienda Pinilla, Andaz, Planet Hollywood, Four Seasons, Waldorf.
Designated starting points:
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt, Peninsula Papagayo, Provincia de Guanacaste, Liberia, Costa Rica
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, Hacienda Pinilla, Provincia de Guanacaste, Guanacaste, 50309, Costa Rica
Pickup service is included.

Duration

15 h

How to prepare for your experience

Bring your original passport and proof of exit from Costa Rica.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
Carry a refillable water bottle.
Allow for potential delays in pickup times due to traffic.
Inform the provider of any specific dietary needs in advance.

Discover the wonders of Nicaragua on an exciting full-day tour from Costa Rica, featuring volcanoes, colonial charm, and stunning lake scenery.

Cancellation conditions

To receive a full refund, please cancel your booking at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 17279P6

Activity offered by Native's Way Costa Rica via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Travelers interested in culture and history
Nature enthusiasts
Adventure seekers
Day-trippers from Costa Rica

Activity essentials

Explore Nicaragua's diverse landscapes, from volcanoes to colonial cities.
Witness the active Masaya Volcano and the serene Islets of Granada.
Discover local crafts and enjoy authentic Nicaraguan cuisine.
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Experienced guides provide insights into local culture and history.
Full-day itinerary covering key highlights.

Tamarindo: good to know

Population: 7,132 (2022)
Elevation: 27 m
Currency: Costa Rican colón
Official language: Spanish
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: A, B · 120 V
Emergency number: 911
Capital city: San José

Average temperatures

27°Jan
28°Feb
29°Mar
30°Apr
29°May
27°Jun
27°Jul
27°Aug
27°Sept
26°Oct
26°Nov
26°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What are the requirements for entering Nicaragua?

You need to send a photo of your passport upon booking and bring your original passport on the tour day. Proof of exiting Costa Rica within 180 days is also required.

What is included in the tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, national park fees, taxes, bottled water, lunch, breakfast, and a guide.

What should I bring for the tour?

It is recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, your original passport, flight itinerary, sunscreen, a rain jacket, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, and extra spending money.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Yes, you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Are there any restrictions on items I can bring into Nicaragua?

Yes, it is prohibited to enter Nicaragua with drones, binoculars, and any equipment for professional audiovisual reproduction.

Reviews

4.64.6(619)

5 stars

480

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Extraordinary! Worth every penny & more!
angelaaA6787IV, September 2026
The day was Incredible!! Worth every penny! I can’t say enough good things about this day trip. I was traveling alone & felt complete safe. Crossing the boarder was made simple with a guide with us the whole time. Every place we stopped at was perfect. Looking down into an active volcano was exhilarating! Walking around Granada was beautiful. We paid $10 for a horse drawn carriage ride that was icing on the cake. The beautiful church, the chocolate tasting, the lunch, souvenir shopping, Everything was well planned & our guides went above & beyond to make the day memorable. I highly recommend this day trip. It’s well worth it!
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that you had such an incredible day and that the experience was worth every penny. It’s especially great to know that you felt completely safe traveling on your own and that our guides made the border crossing smooth and stress-free. We love hearing that you enjoyed each stop along the way and all the activities inlcuded. Our team works hard to make every detail of the day enjoyable and memorable, so hearing that our guides went above and beyond truly means a lot to us. Thank you for trusting us with your day and for recommending the experience to other travelers. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for another adventure soon! Pura Vida, Native's Way
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
The place to be if you want to see the real side of Nicaragua
Adventure14869909563, August 2026
It was our first time visiting tamarindo and we got to see Nicaragua too! Very cool trip. Worth the money and an all-day adventure.
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We’re delighted that your first visit to Tamarindo included the opportunity to explore Nicaragua as well. It sounds like you made the most of the full-day adventure and found it to be a great value. We truly appreciate you choosing Native’s Way and hope to welcome you back for another Costa Rican adventure in the future. Pura Vida! Native's Way
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
More Than a Day Trip — A Real Nicaraguan Adventure!
christinetN2428RH, August 2026
I absolutely loved this trip and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a real adventure and the opportunity to experience a little bit of Nicaragua in a day. One thing I would definitely recommend is wearing comfortable walking shoes. There is a fair amount of walking throughout the day, including at the Costa Rica–Nicaragua border. You leave the vehicle and walk through the border crossing and immigration areas, and it is a fairly long walk between the Costa Rican and Nicaraguan sides. It is completely manageable, but something worth knowing ahead of time, especially if you have mobility concerns. Breakfast and lunch were both provided on our tour and were very good. I also recommend bringing US cash in smaller bills — especially $5s and $10s, and some $1s if you have them. They are much easier for small purchases and tipping, and you don’t have to worry as much about getting change for larger bills. Masaya Volcano National Park was another highlight for me. Getting to visit an active volcano and stand looking into the incredible Santiago crater was something I absolutely loved. The volcanic landscape, the gases rising from the crater and simply knowing that you are standing at the edge of an active volcano make it a pretty unforgettable experience. It was definitely one of those moments when you stop and think, Wow, I’m actually here doing this! Granada was one of the highlights for me. Founded in 1524, it is a fascinating old city filled with history and character. I loved walking through the streets and seeing the old churches, colourful colonial architecture and beautiful courtyards hidden behind the fronts of the homes. Some areas are beautifully preserved while others feel weathered and worn, and for me that was part of what made Granada so interesting. It doesn’t feel like a polished tourist attraction — it feels like a real, living city with centuries of stories behind it. The entire day felt like an adventure, from crossing an international border on foot to seeing a completely different country, culture and way of life. It was interesting, eye-opening and memorable. If you’re staying in Costa Rica and have the opportunity to take this Nicaragua day trip, do it. I’m very glad I did.
★★★★★Viator review
Seamless
Kelinde_R, August 2026
Long day but lovely day. The weather was also super gloomy, but no one can account for that. On a brighter day, I’m sure the country is beautiful. Otherwise, what a wonderful opportunity to see another country. I think the pace was fine, and the stops were simple. There was really no need to spend extra time in these locations as there really is just one thing for you to see in each location, really, except the final boat tour.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
must do!
102andreinaz, August 2026
Incredible experience and flowness to the entire day. I purchased my ticket directly with Natives Way outside our hotel in Tamarindo. From the start of communication with the sales rep things about the trip were very clear: my questions and emails were thorough. The morning of our trip, our driver Jorge was punctual and he was very clear about what to expect and what our morning drive with him looked like. We arrived at the border and were introduced with our border guide Jorge who also was very clear about the steps with crossing the border and who we were to expect once we crossed Peñas Blancas border. Once we crossed we were met with Elmer, our Nicaraguan guide. Again, very clear about the next steps and what our day looked like. Everything was very clear and we got exactly what we paid for which was an extremely reasonable rate for all of what we got. In Nicaragua, Elmer was an amazing guide who talked about the country and culture. Our favorite part was the active volcano although it was a horrible smell, it was one for the books. Communication amongst the team was very evident and we felt safe at all times. Everyone knew our CR drivers and guides in Nicaragua which as just a nice added touch, they knew exactly what to do. The entire itinerary was great for a one day trip. We got back a little later than planned but each moment spent in Nicaragua was worth it. However, we were in bed by 11pm -- and that was a huge plus.

11 activities · Costa Rica

Tamarindo, Costa Rica, has 11 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste and Northwest, Liberia.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Tamarindo

11 in the catalogue

Free cancellation

Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling from Tamarindo

from €94★ 4.7

Top pick

ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach

from €77★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica

from €209★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Marlin del Rey Catamaran – Tamarindo & Playas del Coco

from €120★ 4.6

Deal

Tamarindo Estuary Boat Safari

from €47★ 4.6

Top pick

Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back!

from €49★ 5.0

Free cancellation

Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

from €113★ 4.7

Top pick

ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo, Conchal or RIU Hotels

from €86★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Blue Dolphin - Public Catamaran Tour - Tamarindo

from €82★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

from €122★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Guachipelin Volcano Combo: Zipline, River Tubing & Hot Springs

from €131★ 4.8

All activities · Tamarindo · 11

02On the water

Boats & cruises in Tamarindo

3 activities

Free cancellation

Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling from Tamarindo

from €94★ 4.7

Free cancellation

Marlin del Rey Catamaran – Tamarindo & Playas del Coco

from €120★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Blue Dolphin - Public Catamaran Tour - Tamarindo

from €82★ 4.6

03Categories

Sports & adventure in Tamarindo

6 activities

Top pick

ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach

from €77★ 4.9

Top pick

Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back!

from €49★ 5.0

Free cancellation

Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

from €113★ 4.7

Top pick

ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo, Conchal or RIU Hotels

from €86★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

from €122★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Guachipelin Volcano Combo: Zipline, River Tubing & Hot Springs

from €131★ 4.8

04Explore nearby

Nearby cities

4 cities

Playa Flamingo

Playa Hermosa

Guanacaste and Northwest

Liberia

Frequently asked questions about Tamarindo

What is there to do in Tamarindo?

Tamarindo has 11 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling from Tamarindo », « ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach », « Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica ».

What are the top-rated activities in Tamarindo?

According to traveller reviews: « Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back! » (5.0/5, 761 reviews) ; « ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach » (4.9/5, 464 reviews) ; « ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo, Conchal or RIU Hotels » (4.9/5, 930 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Tamarindo for free?

Usually, yes: 11 of the 11 most popular activities in Tamarindo offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.

What is there to visit near Tamarindo?

Close to Tamarindo: Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste and Northwest, Liberia.