Private 1-Day Tour to Nicaragua From Liberia Guanacaste
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit Nicaragua with the safety and comfort of a private tour for your group in a comfortable and pleasant air-conditioned minivan, equipped with all the corresponding safety measures. On a day trip from Costa Rica to Nicaragua for the first time, you'll be able to see the highlights of the country's south. Plus, you can take a boat ride, shop, and spot wildlife, all in one day.
You will be picked up promptly from your hotel at 5 am and taken to the border, where your guide will help you through every step of the crossing, which takes approximately 30 minutes. The guide will facilitate the process and take care of all passport and visa procedures. From here, we will travel to enjoy a good breakfast and start the day.
We will visit the Catarina Viewpoint, the Masaya Handicraft Market, the Volcano Park Museum, the Immaculate Conception of Mary Cathedral and, finally, the Islets of Nicaragua, and then return to the starting point.
Available options
Private 1-Day Tour to Nicaragua From Liberia Guanacaste
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Costa Rica taxes.
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Nicaragua taxes.
Breakfast
Pick up and drop off at the Hotel, Condominium or House
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up from your hotel promptly at 5 am and taken to the border where your guide will assist you every step of the crossing, which takes approximately 30 minutes. The guide will facilitate the process for you and will take care of all the passport and visa procedures. From here we will travel to have a good breakfast to start the day.
2
Here you can enjoy an incredible view over the crater of the dormant volcano, Granada and Lake Nicaragua. You will be allowed to walk freely for a while before getting back on the bus and heading to the next stop.
3
Do some inexpensive souvenir shopping and experience the Nicaraguan lifestyle before sitting down to a typical Nicaraguan lunch.
4
An Inactive volcano where you will have the opportunity to stand right next to its crater and listen to it rumbling and spewing gases. An incredible view.
5
Stop 5
An old colonial city near Lake Nicaragua. Make a stop at the Church of La Merced, considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Granada. It is flanked by a large tower that houses the church bells. You will go up the stairs and reach the roof of the church. From here, you will have a panoramic view of the city of Granada, the Mombacho volcano and Lake Nicaragua with the islets. This is the perfect place to take photographs of the beautiful city and the surrounding area.
6
Your last stop is a one-hour boat ride on Lake Nicaragua to see the Nicaraguan islets at sunset. Your guide will stop at Monkey Island which consists only of monkeys who will come out and take food from your guide on the boat! You will then return to Costa Rica, stopping along the way to pick up some snacks for the trip home.
7
Return to the starting point
What's not included
Tips.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Liberia
Liberia, known as 'La Ciudad Blanca' for its whitewashed buildings, is the capital of Guanacaste province in Costa Rica. It serves as a gateway to the stunning Pacific beaches, national parks, and rural landscapes of the Northwest region. The city offers a mix of colonial charm, modern amenities, and easy access to some of the country's most beautiful natural attractions.
Top Attractions
Liberia Central Park
A charming park in the heart of Liberia, surrounded by historic buildings and colonial architecture. It's a great place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free
Liberia Cathedral
A striking white cathedral with a distinctive design, located in the heart of the city. It's a prominent landmark and a symbol of Liberia's colonial past.
Historical/Religious
30-45 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Santa Rosa National Park
A protected national park known for its diverse ecosystems, including dry tropical forests, mangroves, and beaches. It's a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, and learning about Costa Rica's natural history.
Nature/Adventure
Half-day to full day
Moderate (¢1,000-¢2,000 CRC entrance fee)
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
A stunning national park featuring volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's perfect for adventure activities like hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate (¢1,000-¢2,000 CRC entrance fee)
Playa Hermosa
A beautiful beach known for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free (parking and rental fees may apply)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices. Often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian (if no meat is added)
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of protein (usually chicken, beef, or fish).
Lunch
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Arroz con Pollo
A flavorful rice dish cooked with chicken, vegetables, and spices. Often served with salad and tortillas.
Dinner
Can be made gluten-free
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack made with fried pork, rice, beans, and avocado. Served with tortilla chips for dipping.
Snack
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications
Popular Activities
Hiking
Horseback riding
Zip-lining
Wildlife watching
Beach lounging
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Visiting historical sites
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers sunny weather, lower humidity, and optimal conditions for exploring the outdoors. This is the peak tourist season, with vibrant festivals and plenty of activities.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Liberia is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Liberia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Liberia. They are affordable and frequent but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Liberia
El Coyol
San José
Day trips
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
20 km from Liberia • Full day
A stunning national park featuring volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's perfect for adventure activities like hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining.
Santa Rosa National Park
30 km from Liberia • Half-day to full day
A protected national park known for its diverse ecosystems, including dry tropical forests, mangroves, and beaches. It's a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, and learning about Costa Rica's natural history.
Playa Hermosa
30 km from Liberia • Half-day to full day
A beautiful beach known for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Festivals
Festival de la Luz • July
Fiestas Patronales • July
Carnaval de Liberia • February/March (before Lent)
Pro tips
- Visit national parks early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and see wildlife more easily
- Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered water to reduce plastic waste
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm climate, and don't forget sunscreen and a hat
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and popular festivals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
