Granada, Nicaragua, has a lot to offer visitors. Rich in culture and history, Granada is a much sought-after travel destination. It’s a great jumping off point to tackle other little known, but adventurous day trips. Here are 5 to get you started.

Take a swim in a crater lake, Laguna de Apoyo outside Granada, Nicaragua.

1. Take a Swim in Crater Lake

Granada is HOT. And though it’s on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, it’s nowhere that you want to swim. But head outside of Granada to Laguna de Apoyo, an ancient volcanic crater and rimmed by green hills. Along its edge are many hostels, most of which will allow you to use their beaches. Admission’s cheap, around 6 bucks.

2. Climb a Bell Tower for a $1

For just a buck, you can ascend Iglesia la Merced. Built in 1534, sacked and burned by Henry Morgan in 1670, then rebuilt, the church itself is pretty, but climb to the top for the single most spectacular view in Granada.

3. Hike an Active Volcano

Volcan Mombacho is the 4,400 foot volcano that towers over the city of Granada. It’s beautiful, green, and begs to be climbed. Though it’s active, it hasn’t erupted in over 500 years, so have no fear. There are three different trails to choose from, each varying in difficulty. The guide costs $15 for a group of up to 5 people, or $20 if you want your tour in English.

4. See a Stone Idol Carved in Bedrock

About 15 miles south of Granada sits Zapatera, an extinct volcano surrounded by Isla el Muerto and a dozen or so other islets. These islands were enormously important to the Nahuatl people, who used them primarily as a vast burial ground and sacrifice spot. The sites of La Punta de las Figuras and Zonzapote are particularly rich in artifacts and have a network of caves that have never been researched. Ask around and seek out the petroglyphs carved into the bedrock beaches of Isla el Muerto.

5. Buy a Cheap Souvenir at a Local Market

Not too adventurous, if you speak Spanish, but Masaya Market is where the Nicaraguans shop. So most vendors only speak Spanish. It’s the best place to buy souvenirs in all of Nicaragua. With aisles upon aisles of Nicaraguan delights, and unlike in many souvenir markets, you barely have to bargain. It’s not a touristy spot, so you’re going to get a real feel of a true Nicaraguan market.

Further Reading on Granada

For an in depth look at Granada check out our Granada Starter Kit, a 64 page book packed full of info on Granada.