john klement: Recently, 2 friends and I decided to visit Nicaragua. Heard it was less touristy than Costa Rica, but safe and friendly, We didn't want to use an International Tour Company but decided to try and keep it local. We are all 60ish, reasonably fit and like doing outdoor acitivities. Unfortunately, most in-country tour operators in Nica specialize in certain locations and we had difficulty finding one that would be able to cover the country for the 2 weeks we wanted to go.
Contacted Apanas tours and described what we were looking for; outdoor activities ..no need for high end amenities (but we do like a warm shower once in awhile and cold beer). Julio and Felipe put together an agenda for us that fit the bill.
They had never done such an extended trip as this and we had the usual array of adventures ( 3 flat tires), but, overall, it was one of the most enjoyable trips I have ever taken. They worked very hard to show us their country -- were knowledgable about the history and nature sights. Great food -- great hikes and kayaking.
Felipe (owner/driver) is fluent in English - background in biology/botany. Julio - guide --very knowledgable about the history - outdoor enthusiast - ran a 100 k race last year. Knew all of the good hikes. Where else can you hike up to the edge of an active volcano spewing gasses into the air and look into the crater? and nobody else is around?
I have visited many places in the world, but I would definitely go back to Nicaragua and I would plan on using Apanas tours again.


Visited March 2014

Mar 20, 2014