Nicaragua

Wellness For Us By Us

March 20th - 25th, 2024

Join us for an exclusive group trip to the enchanting Apogeo Collective in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

This boutique retreat offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure for up to 16 travelers. The phenomenal owners, Sarah Elise and Amber, as black queer women themselves, have intentionally curated beautiful bed and breakfast guest houses and experiences, including authentic ways for us to feel seen, respected and valued.

You can enjoy thrilling volcano hikes, rejuvenating yoga workshops, and cultural immersion activities. In the evenings, you will unwind with curated local experiences that celebrate the rich Nicaraguan culture.

  • Connect with like-minded travelers and forge unforgettable memories in a safe and inclusive environment that promises both relaxation and excitement.

    Ready for an unforgettable journey? Book your spot today and let Apogeo Collective be the highlight of your year!

The Accommodations

Nestled in the heart of San Juan Del Sur, the Apogeo Collective offers a unique hospitality experience designed to cater to queer people of color. The vibe is a harmonious blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion.

Featuring beautifully designed suites that provide both comfort and style. Each room is meticulously decorated with local artwork and modern amenities to ensure a restful stay. Expect plush bedding, spacious layouts, and thoughtful touches that make you feel at home.

  • Apogeo Collective boasts inviting common spaces that encourage connection and community. Whether it's the cozy lounge area, the vibrant dining space, or the outdoor terraces, you'll find plenty of spots to gather, socialize, and share experiences with fellow travelers.

    The pool offers a tranquil oasis where you can unwind, soak up the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water. There’s also easy access to stunning local beaches, where guests can enjoy the natural beauty of Nicaragua's coastline.

    In essence, the accommodations at Apogeo Collective provide a luxurious and culturally rich environment, designed to offer an unforgettable experience.

    Secure your spot and indulge in the comfort and beauty of this unique retreat.

Day One

✈️ LLEGAR Y PROSPERAR

Start your adventure by arriving in Managua and journeying to San Juan del Sur, known for its breathtaking scenery. Once we get to our new home for the next 5 days, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Apogeo Guest House.

Check-In is at 4pm

Unpack and meet your fellow Lesbifriends. We’ll come together for a cacao ceremony then indulge in our first shared meal, Welcome Dinner.

  • A cacao ceremony is a traditional ritual with roots in Central and South American indigenous cultures.

    It involves preparing and drinking raw cacao, which is believed to open the heart, enhance mood, and foster spiritual awareness.

    People often engage in meditation, intention setting, and communal sharing, creating a space for personal growth and healing.

Day Two

🗺️ EXPLORACIÓN LOCAL

We’re starting early today, heading out to Apoyo Lagoon for a day trip.

Apoyo Lagoon is considered one of the cleanest bodies of water in Nicaragua.

It is a volcanic crater lake with clear, warm waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, and other recreational activities. The natural setting and limited development around the lagoon contribute to its cleanliness and pristine condition.

  • All meals will be your responsibility this day. Giving you multiple reasons to indulge in the local cuisine.

    You'll also have the option for additional add-ons while we're exploring:

    • Scuba Lessons

    • Kayaking

    • Paddle boarding

    • Horseback Riding

Day Three

🏝️ GRANADA ESCAPE

Start your day with a delightful breakfast, featuring local Nicaraguan flavors and ingredients. This breakfast experience is not just about food but also about connecting with the rich culture and warm hospitality of the region.

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to the charming colonial city of Granada. Wander through its colorful streets, visit historic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the local culture. The highlight of the day will be a scenic boat ride, where you can explore the islets and enjoy stunning views.

  • As the day winds down, return to the serene beaches of San Juan Del Sur for a Sunset Beach-front Yoga session.

    This relaxing activity allows you to unwind and reflect on your day while taking in the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The combination of yoga and nature's beauty will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

Day Four

🛥️ AVENTURA MARÍTIMA

Begin the day with an invigorating Deep Stretching Class designed to awaken your body and mind, preparing you for the day's adventures. This class, held in a serene setting, combines elements of mobility and grounded movement, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and an energy boost.

  • In the afternoon, embark on a Half Day Catamaran Boat Trip along Nicaragua's stunning coastline. Sail through crystal-clear waters and perhaps even spot some marine life.

    This trip combines some down time with adventure, offering opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The catamaran cruise provides a perfect end to your day, leaving you in awe of the natural beauty of Nicaragua.

Day Five

😎 TU SELECCIÓN DE ACTIVIDADES, EXCURSIONES Y TALLERES

Starting with a Morning Pages Workshop, we’ll engage in a form of journaling to unlock creativity and clarity. It involves longhand, stream-of-consciousness writing first thing in the morning, helping you clear your mind, and set intentions for the day.

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast. After breakfast, you have a variety of activities to choose from for your free day, allowing for a personalized and spontaneous experience.

The day will end with our Farewell Dinner as this will be our last night together in Nicaragua.

  • Choose from a plethora of options like massage, body surf lesson, or touring Mambacho Volcano, etc. for additional fun.

    These days are designed to be flexible, accommodating a wide range of interests.

    From adventurous water sports to relaxing beach days, tailor your experience to your mood, making new friends and memories along the way.

Day Six

👋🏽 DESPEDIDAS EMPALAGOSAS

Our final day begins with a communal breakfast, sharing memories and preparing for departures. Though it's hard to say goodbye, the connections made promise future reunions and travels together.

Check-Out is 11am

  • Reflect on a transformative journey as you bid farewell to new friends and the beautiful setting of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

    The departure is bittersweet, but the experiences shared ensure lasting bonds and anticipations of future trips with the Lesbifriends community.

What’s Included✨

  • Daily Breakfast

  • Welcome and Farewell Dinners

  • Private Ground Transportation to Activities and Excursions on the Itinerary

  • Apoyo Lagoon Day Trip

  • Granada Day Trip 

  • Intentional Workshops

  • Swimming and Yoga

  • Sightseeing

  • Lesbifriends Swag Bag

  • Travel Guide

  • On-ground team to ensure you have an amazing time!

What’s Not Included

  • International Flight

    Your Flight from your Home country to Nicaragua is not included. Check-in is on March 20th at 4 PM, and check-out is on March 25th at 10 AM. Please plan your arrival and departure accordingly, and feel free to reach out with any questions regarding your flight arrangements.

  • Travel Insurance

    Mandatory travel insurance is not included, however Basic coverage can be added on to your trip package or we can provide you with a quote for a different policy. Just add either when checking out.

  • Passport Fees and Vaccines

    Your current passport must be valid for more than 6 months from the trip date and you must be up to date on any vaccines required by the country

  • Meals not Mentioned

    You are responsible for some lunches and dinners

  • Personal extras/add-ons

    Additional tours and excursions not included in the itinerary

  • Tips and gratuities

    You are responsible for tips and gratuities to accommodation staff, on all meals (even ones included in the itinerary), to drivers, tour guides, etc.

Pricing

Payment Plans Available - All Listed Prices Are Per Person

Please review the booking terms and conditions and frequently asked questions section before booking a package.

Get 10% off your entire trip if you pay in full at the time of the initial booking. Use discount code FULL during check out to save on your trip package. Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on options, and you can only use one code per booking.

*Single Occupancy: Make any of these rooms your own for an additional $800

Double Room

Double Occupancy

$1,850+

Deposit: $100
Available until December 1, 2024, or until sold out

2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)*

- If you don't come with someone, you will be paired with a roommate

- If you come with someone, please include whether you prefer 1 double bed or 2 single beds under the "Anything else we should know about you?" section when you register.

Queen Room

Double Occupancy

$1,750+

Deposit: $100
Available until December 1, 2024, or until sold out

2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)*

- If you don't come with someone, you will be paired with a roommate

- If you come with someone, please include whether you prefer 1 double bed or 2 single beds under the "Anything else we should know about you?" section when you register.

Suite

Double Occupancy

$1,950+

Deposit: $100
Available until December 1, 2024, or until sold out

2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)*

- If you don't come with someone, you will be paired with a roommate

- If you come with someone, please include whether you prefer 1 double bed or 2 single beds under the "Anything else we should know about you?" section when you register.

Disclaimer

THIS TRIP ISN'T FOR EVERYONE

Understand that Nicaragua is a Central American country, and standards are not the same as the USA. 

  IT IS FOR YOU IF: 

  • You are open-minded

  • You enjoy eating, walking, and off-the-beaten-path ideas

  • You love to have a great time and are open to meeting others and accept the different personalities you will encounter

 THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR YOU IF:  

  • You have a tendency to bring first world expectations with you everywhere

  • You have a tendency to be negative or create a challenging atmosphere for those around you

  • You're not into trying new things or stepping outside of your comfort zone

  • You don’t like indigenous Spanish, African, and Creole food; that is what we’ll be eating every day

  • You have very specific and particular travel preferences and tend to criticize everything around you

  • You can’t easily walk up stairs; if you find walking tough, then this trip isn’t suited to you

  • You are looking for luxury; Nicaraguan standards are not the same as it is in the USA, however, if you keep an open mind, you will have a great time!

Important Information

Flights

We recommend you book your flight to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua as early as possible, arrival time should be as early as possible on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

The ride to where we will be staying is about two and a half hours. Please keep that in mind when booking your flight time, also please share your flight itinerary with us as soon as you purchase your tickets so we can start coordinating ground transportation. You must provide your flight information to Lesbifriends Travel at least 30 days before the trip begins so that we may schedule your airport transport. We only provide airport transport if you arrive on the day the trip begins and depart on the day the trip ends.

Activity Level: Choose Your Pace

This is a trip that is the traveler’s pick. It allows the traveler to pick the activity level that they would like to do for that day.  As you can see above, there will be many activities to choose from. You can chill on the beach all day if you wish or stay busy with festival and village activities. We will do our best to accommodate everyone’s desires and schedules! 

Activities

  • Day Trips

  • Workshops

  • Yoga/Stretching

  • Swimming

  • Hiking

  • Massage*

  • Surfing*

  • Kayaking*

  • Paddleboarding*

  • Sailing*

  • Windsurfing*

*subject to an additional fee

Entry Requirements

Passport: Six months of remaining validity recommended and at least one blank page per stamp.

VISA: Not required for stays less than 90 days; visa required for all official and diplomatic passport holders.

Prior to Your Departure

Check if you need to update your passport, your expiration date needs to be more than 6 months from the date of the trip.
Sign up for State Department/Embassy alerts.  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) 

Travel Insurance

Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Lesbifriends Travel requires you to have travel insurance for any trip you take with us. Your premium is related to your trip cost, so you don’t have to worry about being over-insured. We want to make your travel experience seamless, so sign up and we will get a travel insurance policy for you or we can provide you with a no obligation quote. If you opt not to go with our preferred travel insurance provider, you are required to get your own and proof of insurance may be requested before the trip.

Money/Currency

The national currency of Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO).Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas, but credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in urban centers, hotels, and larger restaurants. ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, allowing for easy withdrawal of córdobas or US dollars. Please check with your bank ahead of time so there are no surprises.  US dollars are widely accepted, and it is common to exchange currency at banks, official exchange offices, or hotels. Always use authorized places to avoid counterfeit currency.

Payments and Payment Plans

Get 10% off your entire trip if you pay in full at the time of the initial booking. Use discount code FULL during check out to save on your trip package. Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on options, and you can only use one code per booking. 

All payments to Lesbifriends Travel are non-refundable and non-transferable. This is because Lesbifriends Travel has contractual agreements with hotels, airlines, and other vendors that will not allow us to obtain any refunds. This way we can keep our package prices low and allow you to make monthly payments on your vacation.

When you sign up for a trip, you are automatically signed up for monthly payments and your confirmation email will clearly note your due dates and amount. We suggest you put this payment plan on your personal calendar.

A $75 late fee will be applied to all payments made after the 3-day grace period. Your trip is subject to cancellation after two missed payments.

  • If you are traveling alone and do not want to spend the extra money for a single occupancy room, we are happy to match you with a like-minded traveler to be your roommate on this trip. We understand that the extra money spent in getting your own room takes away from the money available for you to splurge while on vacation.

    For that reason, we extend each traveler the option of having us pair you with a suitable roommate for no additional cost. Roommates are paired based on room selection and a potential roommate questionnaire if there are several solo travelers. Before the trip, you will be introduced to your roommate, with plenty of time for you to get to know each other before we reach our destination.

  • Do you know someone who is interested in joining our trip but has not been to a Lesbifriend event or trip? Here is your chance to save a little money while bringing them on a trip of a lifetime!

    For every traveler that you refer to our trip, you will receive up to a $150 ($25 cash, $50 current trip credit, or $75 future domestic trip credit, or $150 future international trip credit) referral bonus once that person pays in full. There is no limit to the number of people you can refer; the only condition is that anyone you refer has not already signed up with Lesbifriends.

    Be sure to tell your friend to enter your name on the registration form under “Who Referred You.”