Nicaragua Travel Guide

Nicaragua is a nation born out of poetry, fire and brazen revolutionary spirit. Few countries can boast such an authentic character. The 1979 Sandinista Revolution, more than any other historical episode, is indelibly etched on the Nicaraguan psyche. As a moment of profound self-realization, it continues to inspire great national pride and endless passionate discourse. 

Sadly, years of counter-revolutionary violence have left their mark too. Broken infrastructure, poverty, high unemployment and a lingering negative image are the legacies of over a decade of civil war. Fortunately, Nicaragua is today at lasting peace and very much on its way up, however, travelling in Nicaragua remains a challenging, intense adventure. 

Despite the country's continuing hardships, Nicaraguan culture - heavily revitalized by Sandinista arts programmes in the 1980s - is among the most celebrated in Central America. For those willing to take the plunge, Nicaragua's ethereal natural beauty and endless anarchic charms tend to leave deep and lasting impressions. 

Nicaragua Travel Guide Highlights
Managua Earthquakes have dramatically affected the capital's buildings, like the Catedral Vieja.	Volcán Masaya Near the colonial city of Masaya is a great excursion up to this volcano's summit.
Volcán Momotombo Overlooking Lake Managua, this volcano has lovely hikes, with beautiful views.	Granada One of the country's best preserved colonial cities, in a magnificent setting.
León This pretty town is known for its fine colonial churches and rich history.	Corn Islands White sand beaches fringed with palm trees in the Caribbean region.
Ometepe A freshwater island with superb views from its volcanic peaks.	Poneloya A fabulous beach hangout with good surfing.
Río San Juan Nature tourism at its best in one of the region's most pristine forest.	San Juan del Sur Experience the unbeatable sunsets from this beach on the Pacific coast.