Parque Central, or Central Park, is the optimal destination for learning what Granada is all about. With its stunning views of colonial architecture, this main city quarter is the center of Granada's activity. Arts and crafts vendors, and a plethora of small eateries and snack bars populate Parque Central, while its many benches and seating areas allow visitors to relax and observe the people of this city and their activities. Sip a sugary linseed drink or cacao de leche while admiring the view of the neoclassical Granada Cathedral.
The 365 baby islets, Las Isletas, in Lake Cocibolca were formed by the erupting Volcán Mombacho. Small boats depart from ports in the southern end of Malecon and guide visitors through the islets, allowing a view of the abundant flora and fauna, particularly water bird species. The boat tours include a stop at San Pablo Island, where monkeys flock to the shore upon noticing new visitors.
Canopy tours use harnessing equipment and cable lines to allow people to glide over the rain forest with a bird's-eye view of Central American wildlife. The Granada ziplines stretch across the side of the Mombacho Volcano, and some tours include views of the Cuttire coffee plantation. The tours provide platform intervals at varying heights, so that viewers can observe the animal activity of the forest, snap photographs or take in the view of the Lake Cocibolca and Mombacho Volcano, its highest point at 1400 meters. Guided hiking trips are also available for those who would rather explore these natural wonders on foot.
The Masaya Volcano National Park includes two volcanoes and five craters and covers an area of 54 square kilometers. The historic eruptions have left most of the park surroundings in ashes and rock, which has transformed the area's vegetation, though it is still inhabited by animals, such as coyotes, raccoons and monkeys. Visitors can either hike or take a cab uphill to see the smoke and sulfur gas emitting from craters and peek over the edge at Mambacho Volcano. A visitors center provides information on the night tours through the park, during which many bats emerge from their caves.
Horseback-riding tours through the Granada countryside are popular for tourists. Visitors can take day-long excursions, trotting through the country farms and experiencing Central America's rural way of life. The tours include educational tidbits, such as farming techniques, as well as stops at local swimming pools and eateries.
