As you depart the hotel in your air-conditioned transportation, your guide will introduce you to the rich & cultural traditions of Nicaragua. As the tour goes by you will enter to the authentic culture of El Viejo town which means “the old one.” This rustic town is known for its wide variety of typical food that is produced by its inhabitants. An important attraction that you will visit is the colonial church known as the Menor Basilica that was constructed in the first quarter of the 17th century; you will notice that it still holds its colonial image. You will have the chance to see the church’s interior which is richly decorated and well-maintained. A beautiful wooden ceiling gives the church a warm impression, and a small part of the church’s history is written in the windows. Look for the most interesting aspect of this church, a small Virgin Mary statuette. You will learn how in 1562 the Spanish conquers used the little Mary statue to get through the Indian villages, the inhabitants were fascinated by this stunning image and people came from far to see the statuette. See part of the silverware used then and now by a group or religious ladies, and learn how this became a Catholic ritual.
After your time at El Viejo you will continue to Chinandega, which means “place surrounded by cane.” At first you will see how colorful the town is, and then learn about the importance of the park for the locals and their impressive colonial church in the middle of the city. The second part of the tour tour is a positive contribution and a great opportunity for a social interaction with the Nicaraguan children. As you leave the the restaurant in Chinandega, and only after a 15 minutes minute drive, you will arrive to the Betania foundation which is a 10 acre property that host 400 children. Feel the energy with the primary school kids, visit the educational center for teenagers where they learn and work different techniques such as carpentry, arts, sewing and mechanics; witness how a 4 feet tall child manages to play a Saxophone, while a lovely girl carefully plays a violin.
Along with your guide be the guest of the young local guide who will lead you through a great visit at the Chorotega museum which holds 1500 Indigenous pieces. This is the best collection of Pre-Columbian evidence in the zone. Closing your visit is an opportunity to practice your Spanish with the kids or simply enjoy what they have to offer you, a big smile and a lot of hope for their future.
After 1 hour, you will be back in your hotel at Colonial Leon.