Active Pursuits in Granada, Nicaragua

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.