Nicaragua has only recently come into the spotlight for travel, especially as past assumptions about this beautiful nation slowly fade away and increasingly more couples, families and solo travelers start to discover all that Nicaragua has to offer.
Whether you’re an adventure junkie, or you prefer taking in the many natural wonders or cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in this Central American country.
From the Ocean to the Volcanoes
Nicaragua is a nature lover’s paradise, with many areas still largely untouched by the impacts of tourism and industry. Nicaragua is especially well know for its mix of active and dormant volcanoes, and a visit to Ometepe Island allows you to actually hike one.
Another can’t miss hiking opportunity is the night volcano tour at Masaya Volcano National Park. If water and bird watching is more your style, consider booking a kayak tour at Caballito’s Mar where you’ll see all types of local birds and even the occasional turtle.
Jump Start Your Adrenaline with Adventure
For the adventure lover, Nicaragua offers some of the best adrenaline-pumping activities in Central America. If you love surfing, then San Juan del Sur is the way to go.
Between the beautiful scenery, incredible water conditions and laid back vibe, this area is a surfer’s paradise. If you want some bragging rights, go volcano boarding, also known as ash surfing, down a young active volcano at Cerro Negro.
Nicaragua is also home to incredible scuba and snorkeling opportunities with Corn Island offering some of the best sites and water conditions both for divers and for those that prefer to just relax on the beach.
Explore History and Culture
When researching things to do in Nicaragua, historical sites abound for those looking to tour the unique culture and history of the country. Church architecture is especially grand and beautiful throughout the country with both Le Recoleccion Cathedral in Leon and the Guadalupe Church in Granada topping the list.
While visiting near Le Recoleccion Cathedral, also check out the Colonial Leon Baroque Theater. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of Nicaragua is to shop the markets in Masaya.
While off the beaten path from other more touristy areas of Nicaragua, both the old and the new market will expose you to the work of local artisans along with market staples like produce and spices.
Discover Chocolate
Cacao is the primary ingredient in chocolate, and this incredible product only really grows within the 15 degrees of the equator. Nicaragua’s cacao production helped spawn the ChocoMuseo. Located in Granada, here you can tour the cacao farm, get a chocolate massage and even make your own chocolate from beans to bar.
From active volcanoes to its proximity near the Belize Barrier Reef, Nicaragua is full of hidden beauty and adventure that just begs to be explored. So when you’re looking at destinations for your next adventure, consider adding Nicaragua to your list of must see locations
