Elizabeth Perkins - Moon Nicaragua

ELIZABETH PERKINS

At first glance, Nicaragua is brilliant green trees and brightly colored flowers, birdcalls and rich coffee, colonial architecture, and monkeys swinging from branches. Spend some time here, and youll hear the rhythmic pounding of hands forming wet cornmeal into tortillas and notice the scent of plantains frying in hot oil. Take a closer look, and youll find community. Families sit in front of their houses after a hard days work, chatting with their neighbors while children play in the street. Strangers look out for each other on public buses. Folks organize to change problems in their neighborhoods.

For travelers, Nicaragua is a gem hidden in the rough. Tropical rainforests and soaring volcanoes offer endless opportunities for hiking and exploring. Sandy beaches with shimmering waters allow for languid beachcombing and swimming, while surfers flock to the shores for some of the best waves in the region. Charming cities have thriving dining and nightlife scenes and flourishing caf cultures set amidst grand cathedrals and centuries-old Spanish colonial architecture.

A culture of collectivism has emerged in response to centuries of injustice. Nicaragua has a tumultuous and battered past, but the Nicaraguan people have learned to depend on their own resourcefulness to get by. Today, you will see this spirit of self-reliance in agricultural cooperatives, artisan collectives, and community organizationsincluding a burgeoning industry of community tourismacross the country.

swimmers in Gigante Bay

Nicaragua is a place to slow down and step into a more relaxed rhythm. Pack a little flexibility, good humor, and, ideally, some basic Spanish. Whether soaking up some sun while sipping rum on the beach, sharing coffee with a rural family, or speeding down a river on a motorboat, youll find Nicaragua to be just as its Ministry of Tourism describes it: unspoiled, uncommon, and unforgettable.

building in Granada

blooming tree in San Juan del Sur.

hand-rolled cigars

Where to Go

Managua

Although you wont find the capital at the top of any tourist destination lists, the city is full of history. Managua is also the countrys transportation hub. If you find yourself passing through on a weekend, make sure to check out the vibrant nightlife.

Granada and Masaya

Less than an hour south of Managua are the colonial cities of Granada and Masaya. Granada is the countrys tourist hub, while smaller Masaya offers a more laid-back vibe. Both have developed international caf cultures and nightlife. Between the two lies the Laguna de Apoyo, the perfect spot for a relaxing respite of swimming, kayaking, and sharing a beer with fellow travelers. Outside Masaya is one of the countrys many active volcanoes, Volcn Masaya. Volcn Mombacho, a coffee farm and cloud forest, appeals to hikers and coffee enthusiasts.

La Isla de Ometepe and San Juan del Sur

One of Nicaraguas most sought-after destinations, Ometepe Island offers a little bit of everything, with options for every kind of traveler. Its twin volcanoes offer hiking treks full of howler monkeys, tropical plants, and waterfalls. There are beaches and lagoons for swimming, and plenty of restaurants that cater to tourists. San Juan del Sur on the Pacific coast is popular with foreigners. In addition to jaw-dropping sunsets, it offers a raging nightlife. Tola is generally calmer and less full of tourists. Try surfing, fishing, or sailing on one of the regions many beaches.

La Catedral de Len

Len and the Volcanic Cordillera

Len and Chinandega are historical colonial cities with vibrant urban life. Lots of bars and restaurants offer international food and serve clientele from all over the world. This is also the hottest region of the country. Escape the heat on the nearby Pacific coast where you can surf and observe sea turtles. This is the region that made volcano boarding a sport (on Cerro Negro). There are many remote protected areas throughout the Cosigina peninsula.

Estel and the Segovias

This mountainous northern region boasts an impressive landscape. Try locally grown coffee, tobacco, and corn products. Take a dip in the Estanzuela waterfall in the Tisey Nature Reserve. Meet other travelers and shop for mementos in the historical city of Estel. From there you can head north towards the Honduran border and rock climb in the Somoto Canyon, or take a guided swimming tour.

The Matagalpa and Jinotega Highlands