Laguna de Apoyo sanctuary of stunning beauty

Apoyo Lagoon Nature Reserve is a mostly undiscovered sanctuary of stunning beauty straddling the Granada and Masaya Departments. This pristine lagoon’s abysmal blue depths invite swimmers and divers, but mostly draws travelers to relax at its beach club along the rim and become mesmerized by the sounds of birds and howler monkeys.  Formed over 20,000 years ago by volcanic eruption, the spot exudes tranquility. Forest covers its steep banks.  Swimmers splash about a dive platform and a few high energy visitors rent kayaks.

It’s natural to make friends here because the beauty invokes a sense of wonder that inspires a yearning to share.  At the close of this idyllic day, sociable tourmates board a shuttle to another crater rim for a chance to see lava glowing in the dark