Flor de Cana Rum Factory

The basics

The Flor de Cana rum factory is an immersive experience showing visitors how the rum is made and its place in Nicaragua’s history. The factory offers two tours: regular and VIP. The regular tour (90 minutes) explains the distillation process and includes two tastings. A private guide leads the VIP tour (100 minutes), which includes a sample of every rum and a visit to the aging cellar. VIP tour members receive a bottle of Flor de Cana 18.

Things to know before you go

• Kids under 6 get free admission to the regular tour, but there is a charge for children on the VIP tour.

• Take a virtual tour of the company's website to acquaint yourself with the accessibility and layout of the factory.

• The legal age to purchase alcoholic beverages in Nicaragua is 18.

How to get there

The Flor de Cana Rum Factory is located on the northern end of Chichigalpa, between the cities of Leon and Chinandega. Taking Highway 3 to Highway 54 from either city is the most direct route. Many travelers plan a trip with an organized tour or hire a taxi to drop them off at the factory.

When to get there

There are a limited number of tours available on Saturdays and Sundays at the Flor de Cana rum factory so it’s best to book in advance. If driving, try to arrive at least a half-hour early for your tour if parking is limited due to sporting events across the street.

Visit San Cristobal Volcano

Flor de Cana rum is aged at the base of the San Cristobal Volcano, one of the most active in Nicaragua. Many tourism companies offer guided tours to the base of San Cristobal Volcano, as well as hikes. Be warned that the approximately 7-mile (11-kilometer) summit hike is one of the toughest in the country with an elevation gain of more than 4,429 feet (1,350 meters).

Where is the Flor de Cana factory?

The Flor de Cana factory is located in the town of Chichigalpa, outside of Leon, at the base of the San Cristobal Volcano in Nicaragua. This location was chosen because of the fertility of the surrounding lands, enriched water, and hot volcanic climate, which contributes to the rum's flavor.

Is Flor de Cana a sipping rum?

Yes. Flor de Cana produces a smooth premium aged sipping rum. It is naturally aged for up to 30 years in bourbon barrels without sugar or artificial ingredients. The rum boasts flavors such as toffee apple and buttery vanilla. The younger varieties can be used to make cocktails like daiquiris.

Is Flor de Cana a good rum?

Yes. Flor de Cana is considered a top-quality rum that’s highly rated and is said to have similarities with good bourbons. The brand’s portfolio ranges from young, light rums for making cocktails to the popular Flor de Cana 18 to an ultra-luxury, 30-year-old rum aged in a single barrel.

Is the Flor de Cana factory worth visiting?

Yes, especially for drink enthusiasts. On the tour, visitors learn about the production process and company history from a guide. You’ll tour the vault, walk through the rum barrel operation area, and watch a video. You’ll taste Flor de Cana 18 and receive a drink of Flor de Cana 12.

Can you tour the Flor de Cana factory on your own?

No. You must book a tour of the Flor de Cana factory, which takes place several times a day and lasts about 90 minutes. Most travelers choose to book tours through an operator in Leon with roundtrip transportation included. Otherwise, you will need to arrange for a taxi.

How much does it cost to visit the Flor de Cana factory?

It costs about US$20 to visit Flor de Cana. That includes a tour with a tasting of Flor de Cana 18 and Flor de Caña 12 slow-aged drink. For roughly US$100, book an exclusive tour with a private guide and a Ron Flor de Cana 18 bottle.