Private 1-Day Nicaragua Tour From Tamarindo 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 Nicaragua Tour From Tamarindo Guanacaste
Pickup included
What's included
Breakfast
Private transportation
Costa Rica taxes.
Lunch
Bottled water
Hotel pickup and drop-off.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Nicaragua taxes.
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up from your hotel promptly and taken to the border where your guide will assist you with 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
Stop 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
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 Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a vibrant coastal town in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and lively nightlife. It's a popular destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Top Attractions
Tamarindo Beach
A long, sandy beach known for its great waves, perfect for surfing and sunbathing. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Playa Langosta
A quieter beach located just north of Tamarindo, known for its beautiful sunsets and turtle nesting sites.
Nature
Half day
Free
Las Baulas National Marine Park
A protected area for the endangered leatherback turtles, offering guided night tours during nesting season.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro. Often served with tortilla chips or patacones (fried plantains).
Appetizer
Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free
Casado
A typical Costa Rican lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Hiking
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Local markets
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. The weather is perfect for surfing, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby national parks.
24-32°C
75-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tamarindo is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
Getting there
By air
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 40 km (25 miles)
By bus
Liberia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most affordable way to get around but can be infrequent. They are best for short distances within the town.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Tamarindo Town
Langosta
Day trips
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A stunning national park with volcanic activity, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Offers hiking, waterfalls, and mud baths.
Las Catalinas
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A charming, car-free coastal village with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Festivals
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary)
Tamarindo International Film Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder season for fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Rent a surfboard or take a surf lesson to experience Tamarindo's famous waves.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
- Try local street food for a budget-friendly and delicious meal.
- Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
