Canopy Touring

The slopes of Reserva Natural Volcán Mombacho (www.mombacho.org) offer some spectacular opportunities to glide through the jungle. Canopy Tours Mombacho (tel. 505/2267-8256) has a 16-platform course that's located close to the park entrance. Hacienda Cutirre has a spectacular 17-platform canopy system on the eastern face of the volcano. Trips there can be arranged through Nahual Tours, 1 1/2 blocks east of the cathedral (tel. 505/8988-2461; www.nahualtours.com). 

Hiking

Reserva Natural Volcán Mombacho has some of the best-maintained trails in the country. Numerous travel operators offer 1-day excursions here, or you can take a short bus ride to the park entrance. It is possible to hike from the city to the huge crater lake, Laguna de Apoyo, a popular watering hole holding abundant wildlife within its rim. Volcán Masaya National Park offers a jaw-dropping look into the gates of hell and is possible to see in a day excursion from the city.

Horseback Riding

Blue Mountain (tel. 505/2552-5323; www.bluemountainnicaragua.com) is a ranch outside the city where you can also lodge and do wildlife excursions. Rates start at C770 for a double.

Kayaking

Laguna de Apoyo has several launching pads for those who fancy some paddle time. You can rent kayaks from lakeside lodgings San Simian Eco Resort (tel. 505/8813-6866) or the Monkey Hut (tel. 505/8887-3546). More interesting to explore are the chain of islands called Las Isletas in Lago de Nicaragua. Here, there are some bird-filled waterways and an interesting island fort called El Fortin. Nahual Tours, 1 1/2 blocks east of the cathedral (tel. 505/8988-2461; www.nahualtours.com) are the local experts for this.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.