In Nicaragua there’s something for everyone – beaches, volcanoes, lakes, tropical rainforest, colonial cities and eco-luxury. There are many adventures waiting for you.
We spent some days in this beautiful country and these are the places we highly recommend:
MANAGUA, CAPITAL CITY
The most recognizable landmark in the city is the statue of Sandino at the Parque Historico Nacional Loma de Tiscapa. Hike to the top of the hill to catch some of the most incredible views of the city and the Volcano Momotombo.
MASAYA VULCANO
Visit „Volcán Masaya“. The night tour is absolutely breathtaking.
CASCADA BLANCA
Eco-Lodge Cascada Blanca is located not far from the city of Matagalpa and offers great possibilities for a nice swim or relaxing picnic.
EL CASTILLO DEL CACAO
El Castillo makes the best chocolate in Nicaragua using organic cacao harvested just two hours away from the small factory.
ENJOY SUNSET FROM APANTE HILL, MATAGALPA
The Apante Hill is one of the highest hills surrounding the city of Matagalpa. Although Apante is situated close to the city, it is not very easy to find the start of the trails. It is therefore recommended to hire a guide in Matagalpa.
SELVA NEGRA PRIVATE RESERVE
Selva Negra is located on a coffee estate that also holds some beautiful virgin cloud forest, up in the mountains in Matagalpa.
HACIENDA HAMMONIA
Learn how coffee is grown and processed on the coffee plantation in Selva Negra.
TOBACCO PRODUCTION IN ESTELI
The city of Estelí is famous for the tobacco production that takes place in the high quality cigar factories and plantations, located in the urban area. The Nicaraguan cigars from this region are high quality and sold in the U.S. and Europe. There are a couple cigar factories where you as a tourist can walk around and see how things are done like Joya de Nicaragua or Plasencia.
ENJOY EVERYDAY LIFE
There are much more things to discover in Nicaragua. Go and get your personal experience.
Nicaragua Facts
Official Name:
Republic of Nicaragua. Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America.
Location:
Central America, between the Caribbean Sea (East), the Pacific Ocean (West), Honduras (North) and Costa Rica (South).
Principal Cities:
Managua is the capital and the nation’s largest city, with a population of 2,206,000 (2015). Other important cities include: León, Granada, Jinotega, Matagalpa, Chinandega, and Masaya.
Climate:
Tropical in the lowlands, cooler in the highlands. Temperatures vary
from 81-90°F (27-32°C) during the rainy season from May to October, and from 86-95°F (30-35°C) during the dry season from November to April. The climate in the western region of the country between the lakes and the Pacific Ocean is dry and has little precipitation. The eastern part is hot, humid and rainy.
Language:
Spanish is the official language and is spoken by the vast majority of Nicaraguans. English and indigenous languages are used along the Caribbean coast and in parts of the Atlantic coastal plain. Many Nicaraguans also speak some English.
Currency:
Córdoba (C). Exchange rate: Approximately NIO 28.90 per US dollar (Oct 2016).
Most establishments will accept payment in US dollars. Major credit cards are typically accepted in hotels, restaurants, and stores in both urban and tourist areas. Currency exchange can be transacted at most banks and hotels.
Visa Requirements:
All visitors need a passport valid for at least six months to enter Nicaragua.
Taxes:
The entry tax is US $10 payable in US dollars or Córdobas. Checks and credit cards are not accepted. Sales tax: 15% on all purchases.
More information:
Photos: © The finest Emirates