Things to do & places to visit in Leon Department, Nicaragua

Leon Department #3 destination in Nicaragua 2023. The average rating score is 4.50 based on 6.065 traveler reviews, of 41 attractions. Timezone: America/Managua, current date and time: Saturday, May 11, 2024, 6:36.

Top things to do (36)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Volcano Day (1.516 reviews)
- Volcano boarding is a must, and Volcano Day are brilliant!
Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Day Trips

Volcano boarding was incredible! All over Central America, you see people wearing the Volcano Day t-shirts and tank tops which are included in the price (but I've not seen any t-shirts from the other companies). You hike up with all your equipment, take a walk around the crater whilst you wait for groups that are ahead of you to go, and then you suit up and get taught how to do it. There is no pressure to go fast (the slowest person on record took 30 minutes, the fastest is 15 seconds). When you come back, you get given a drink (included) and when back in León, you get veggie burritos. I can't fault the company. It's been a fantastic experience, and I definitely recommend using Volcano Day! See more..
5.0 La Isla Foundation (17 reviews)
- From Salsa to Spanish, La Isla has it all!
Lessons & Workshops

Explore Leon on our day trips and see some of the untouched corners of this gorgeous country on one of our tours. Learn Spanish and salsa, practice yoga, relax in our guesthouse and even volunteer with La Isla Foundation.Taking part in these activities supports our work ending a preventable public health epidemic; the profits support La Isla Foundation’s public health research, community education, human rights initiatives, and media production. By traveling, learning and and/or volunteering with us you are part of the solution for ending the epidemic of Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown cause (CKDu). Our guesthouse offers private or double rooms with private bathrooms as well as dormitories. All rooms have full access to the kitchen, pool, wi-fi, hammocks, places to relax, garden, and workout equipment. We are the alternative to Leon’s party hostels. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information! See more..
5.0 Ruedas Leon (17 reviews)
- Top!
Spent 2-3 hours Gear Rentals

Ruedas Leon offers short and long term rentals of Bicycles, Scooters and Motos. We also offer guided bike, scooter and moto tours in Northern Nicaragua. Best prices in Central America! See more..
5.0 Momotombo (10 reviews)
- Amazing place to enjoy a good view and some good seafood
Volcanos

Great spot to enjoy a great magical view. The ruins of Leon viejo are very close. While visiting the ruins you can learn about the colonial times See more..
5.0 Artesania de Leon (8 reviews)
- Watch how handcrafted textiles are made!
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 AM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

After a very warm welcome you watch and learn about the tools and techniques to produce those wonderful handcrafted cotton textiles that now decorate our house. We are specially in love with the xxl blanket for the whole family and the little bags that help us to keep an order in our bigger bags. See more..
5.0 Pastor's Surf School (7 reviews)
- Best instructor
Surfing & Windsurfing

Pastor is an amazing instructor. The progression to learn was very appropriate to my beginner level. His passion for surfing is contagious. I really appreciated my surding lessons and I recommend him with no hesitation. Thank you again Pastor! See more..
5.0 Cerro Negro (7 reviews)
- First time sliding down a volcano
Volcanos

It was so much fun and the views were incredible! I took my son and his best friend to volcán cerro negro. I really didn't know the logistics but I'm open to new experiences. The climb is not long nor hard. The actual ride last very short but is so much fun. I came back again in 2 weeks lates and bought another small group. See more..
5.0 SurflessonsNicaragua (6 reviews)
- Great instructor, great waves, great playa
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Taxis & Shuttles • Boat Rentals • Speed Boats Tours • Stand Up Paddleboarding

Kelvin and his crew are awesome. Great surfers indeed but more than that they are great teachers! Great vibes, great English, tough both myself (intermediate) and my girl friend (complete beginner). Def recommend See more..
5.0 Vida Surf Travel (5 reviews)
- Best surf trip ever!!
Multi-day Tours • Surfing & Windsurfing

Vida surf took away every worry of travelling to a new country. Pick up and drop off from the airport, accommodation, meals, and most importantly the best surf spots. It helps that Nicaragua also has waves for evwryone, but the vida crew made the experience amazing. 10/10 wpuld recommend See more..
5.0 Volcano Adventure Nicaragua (playa) (2 reviews)
- Experiencia innolvidable
Boat Tours • Walking Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

Un viaje de maravilla, la caminata del cerro vale la pena y la baja en la tabla espectacular, el guía muy amable en todo momento, desde el principio del tour hasta finalizar. See more..
5.0 LanchaLito (2 reviews)
- unforgettable experience
Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Speed Boats Tours

we picked the sunset tour, which is a short and cheap boat ride (around 40 to 45dollars for up to 6-7 people). Lito took us to a beach which is an ancient turtle reserve, where we ate wild oysters and enjoyed and sunset in the magical atmosphere. the home ride was wonderful. When you book the tour, ask him to bring the stuff to open up wild oysters!! very nice boat tour and cute family! Lito was an ex bodybuilding champion, so ask him to tell you about his experiences and show you his pictures haha! to contact him, his WhatsApp does not work, but you can find him on the beach by asking for Lito or call him directly +505 7889 5551. See more..
5.0 Parque Acuatico Telica (2 reviews)
- Especial !!
Water Parks
La pasé super genial ... Pues tiene muy buenos precios , atención esmerada , pisicinas súper limpias y un ambiente muy sano para compartir con la familia y los amigos See more..
5.0 Big Daddy's Paddleboards (1 review)
- Do it!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Stand Up Paddleboarding

Went on a standup paddle board trip with Big Daddy. He drove me from Las Penitas to a beautiful mangrove estuary in Poneloya ( about 3 miles away). The water was calm and wide enough to feel comfortable paddling. You start in an area you can stand in. He is easy going and s good instructor. We saw lots of birds and plants and the workout depends on what you want to do. He is located at Spotz Gelato (another must do). See more..
5.0 Cerro Negro (7 reviews)
- First time sliding down a volcano
Volcanos

It was so much fun and the views were incredible! I took my son and his best friend to volcán cerro negro. I really didn't know the logistics but I'm open to new experiences. The climb is not long nor hard. The actual ride last very short but is so much fun. I came back again in 2 weeks lates and bought another small group. See more..
4.5 Cerro Negro Volcano (1.151 reviews)
- Volcano Boarding
Volcanos

We ventured up this volcano as part of a Volcano boarding tour with Volcano Day. To get there you need to take a bumpy dirt road for a couple of km, so not advisable if you are planning to get there on your own with a hire car. It is a moderate hike up to the crater rim that takes around 45min with a couple of breaks along the way. The views over the valley and along the line over other Nicaraguan volcanoes is quite spectacular. The side that you board down is steep however it isn't as scary as it looks and you have control of the speed that you go. Boarding is the best way to experience this particular volcano. See more..
4.5 Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (811 reviews)
- Landmark of Leon
Churches & Cathedrals

Located adjacent to parque central (the centre of Leon) this is a massive cathedral and iconic landmark of Leon. Its free to view externally and to enter the cathedral but be aware that it is a place of worship and one would be best being respectful. You can ascend to the roof through a small entrance in the side. Unfortunately the day we visited the line was extensive and so we ended up missing out on this experience. See more..
4.5 Museo de Arte Fundacion Ortiz-Gurdian (455 reviews)
- Wonderfully curated collection
Speciality Museums

An extensive eclectic mix of art from early European to contemporary International and local artists. The elegant, cool building with shady courtyard and lush vegetation is a great place to sit and think. The vivid pop art and the video installation of the revolution cover a vast array of styles and messages. The room stewards are friendly and helpful. See more..
4.5 Telica Volcano (183 reviews)
- Volcano Tours - Telica, Cerro Negro and Hoya
Volcanos

A group of 25+ of us have just thoroughly enjoyed 3 days of trekking up and down these volcanoes near Leon, thanks to our wonderful guides, Henry Rueda, Sterling and the Doc Pedro. Spectacular scenery. Can't recommend these guys more highly What thoughtful and charming guides. See more..
4.5 Juan Venado Island Nature Reserve (145 reviews)
- Birdwatchers delight
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Birdwatchers paradise! I was told there are over 140 bird species that have been identified here. We also saw sea turtles being released. Hotel/restaurant Barca de Ora is located on the edge of this beautiful estuary. You can book a boating tour through the hotel or rent one of their kayaks. The hotel is the closest hotel to the reserve’s office to pay for entry or your boat captain will get them for you. See more..
4.5 El Calvario Church (58 reviews)
- Great photo op
Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

This is one of the most striking colonial churches in Leon.The multi- coloured facade stands out even from a distance, and the exterior panels painted with Biblical scenes in a sort of naive/folk art style are totally unique.A quick, easy walk from the Catedral de Leon. See more..
4.5 Church The Recollection (47 reviews)
- Breathtaking
Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

There is nothing quite like the sight of Church the Recollection. It's outstanding yellow, and olden architecture is beautiful. It's 2 blocks from central park and near the markets. A lot of school kids hang out outside the church. Try and visit inside if the doors are open! See more..
4.5 Rancho Los Alpes Ecolodge (25 reviews)
- The Best!!!
Ranches

Hotel Rancho Los Alpes, the perfect place to know Nicaragua emphasizing in community development and sustainable tourism. Strategically located between the city of Leon and the beaches of Las Penitas and Poneloya, offers the opportunity to rest, relax, take a walk around a beautiful colonial city or just enjoy the direct contact with nature in a comfortable and safe environment. Los Alpes distinguishes for offering fun activities that will break the routine: walks around trails in the tropical forest, planting trees, horseback riding, canopy, learn the tortilla elaboration, milking cows, cooking national dishes, karaoke and more. Our hotel also offers aquatic tours. Rancho Los Alpes is an ideal place to visit alone or with company. You can meditate or read while enjoying the magnificent view of the Maribios Volcanic Range, have fun with your friends around a bonfire, or hang out in the grill room with bar service. SERVICE TRIPS for mission trips, Los Alpes organizes your stay, food, transportation and the work of volunteering in the community. In addition, there is free time for recreation and getting to know the culture of Nicaragua. See more..
4.5 Leon Executive Shuttle Service (21 reviews)
- Leon Executive Shuttle = Reliable & Professional Transportation
Taxis & Shuttles

I arrived in Managua airport, off a crowded flight and not speaking Spanish. As I exited Customs, I saw Jose holding a Leon Shuttle sign with my name clearly in view, in the middle of scores of taxi drivers. He took my luggage and we got into the vehicle with strong air conditioning. It was a relief. It takes over 2 hours to drive to las Penitas where I was meeting friends who live on the Pacific ocean side. My friends and I planned an overnight in Granada so Leon Shuttle to us on the 2.5 hour ride with Frank driving and who seemed to avoid every bump and pot hole, again in refreshing air conditioning. The price they charge is very reasonable taking into account the length of the rides. Additionally, Leon Shuttle will take you anytime you need a ride, even in the middle of the night. Leon Shuttle is very reliable and a service you can count on. See more..
4.5 Brasileirissima Salon Spa (12 reviews)
- Best salon in Leon
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spas

Brasileirissima is the best salon in Leon, hands down! I cannot say enough about my visit there. I'm from the US, have been living on the beach in Nicaragua for over a month, was in serious need of some beautification and Kizzy worked her magic! I couldn't be more pleased. Not only did she fit me in last minute, she ended up doing the works- split end hair treatment &a blow out, mani, pedi, and brows! She is absolutely fabulous at what she does- extremely detail oriented and an obvious perfectionist because the results exceeded my expectations. I've been getting compliments on my hair all day long. I'll most definitely be back soon Kizzy for more pampering! MUCHAS GRACIAS <3 See more..
4.0 Playa Las Penitas (519 reviews)
- Big waves
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM Beaches

We came here for the afternoon. You can go swimming here and we swam just out the front of Playa Roca to the right of the rocks. The swell was pretty big when we were there with 5-6ft waves. It looked perfect for experienced surfers but a little tough for swimmers. The stretch of beach is pretty though and makes for idyllic sunsets. See more..
4.0 Museo de la Revolucion (332 reviews)
- Terrifying roof walk!
Speciality Museums

We arrived in time to take to the roof without realising just what we were in for. It is made of corrugated iron and is very rusty and not well bolted down. HOWEVER, there was a clear set of arrows to follow and the guide was pointing out all the vantage points that were had during the revolution. When you return to terra firma, there is an interesting section at the beginning of the museum which we should have seen first. The courtyard has some good fresco style paintings of the history of the revolution. The guide spoke very good English and is a veteran of that time (1980's) See more..
4.0 Museum of Legends and Traditions (Museo de Tradiciones y Leyendas) (253 reviews)
- Worthwhile historical sight
History Museums

The guided tour is about 30 min. A brief overview of the history behind the jail that used to be at the museum sight. Including history and myths behind the folkloric Nicaraguan stories. The fee is $2, worthwhile. See more..
4.0 Ruins of Leon Viejo (159 reviews)
- Lots to see at the ruins of Old Leon
Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins

Ruins of one of the oldest Spanish settlement in the New World. See more..
4.0 Museo Ruben Dario (135 reviews)
- Birthplace of the famous Nicaraguan poet
Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Located several blocks away from the Parque Central, this museum is easily accessible by walking. There is a small park near by that has the full size statue of Ruben Diario plus busts of some other literary figures of Leon. Entrance fee is $1 or 37 codobas. The guide told me to put my 50 cordobas in a box. He just smiled at me when I asked him for my change. There are several rooms of exhiibits depicting the life story of Ruben Diario, his travels, literary works, books, bedroom, etc. Note that explanations are all in Spanish. See more..
4.0 Playa Poneloya (108 reviews)
- A place where you can reset
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM Beaches

Poneloya used to be one of the most important beaches in Nicaragua in the years before the war. Las Peñitas was developed much later and properties was less worth over at the other beach. Now- 30 years later Poneloya seems laid back and abandomed in comparison to las peñitas but due to the fact that you can have absolute piece over there, this makes it once again so special. We have a house in poneloya and for me personally there couldnt be a better place than poneloya. Try el pariente on the main road one block after the entry to the beach. See more..