1. This whimsical jungle in the northern Nicaraguan mountains provides the perfect escape from the Managua heat. Its fresh air will not only soothe your weary mind but the mountain chill will motivate you to hike one of the forest’s various trails. Feeling adventurous? Hike to the top to see an unbelievable view of Matagalpa; In the mood for a stroll? Meander among coffee plantations. Speaking of coffee, what better reward for physical exertion than the richest cup of coffee you’ll find in Nicaragua.
2. On thetlantic Coast of the country, Little Corn Island is a little more than a skip, hop, and a jump away from Managua- More specifically buses, boats, or a plane ride away (I’d highly recommend flying). The white sand, crystal clear water, and charming island community make the trek well worth it. Gaze at the beauties of the ocean with readily available snorkeling or diving tours. Indulge in a gallo pinto veggie burger or fish tacos at Tranquilo restaurant. And don’t forget to climb to the top of the ‘lighthouse’ for a panoramic view of the island.
3. The first of the colonial cities, Granada is arguably the friendlier of the two. With nearby Volcan Mombacho and almost 300 Isletas just off the coast in Lake Nicaragua, Granada has seen its fair share of tourists and has the better developed tourism industry to show for it. Well-maintained colonial churches spot the city, as do open-air restaurants and art galleries.
4. Though with similar origins, León and Granada differ in many ways. If Granada is the friendlier of the two, León is the more authentic. Crumbling colonial churches are as commonplace as revolutionary murals. A growing draw to León is volcano boarding, or the adrenaline rush that is hiking a volcano and sliding back down it at speeds the likes of 40 mph. A rush to say the least, check out Bigfoot hostel for volcano boarding tours and stay the night in this hammock-lined hostel. Grab a buttery croissant at Pan y Pas the following morning to calm your senses after a day of adventure.
5. Also known as San Juan del Surf, this Southern beach town represents one of the most developed tourist attractions. Complete with a row of beachside restaurants, hostels spotting the side streets, and a steady inflow of surfers and backpackers, this destination offers good surfing and wild partying; stay at the hostel Pachamama for the best of both. Check out the cleaner and less crowed beaches Playa Maderas and Majagual nearby and don’t leave without hiking to the Cristo for an unforgettable view overlooking the beach.
6. Cutting through sharp rock columns, Somoto Canyon is not only a freak of nature, but a good example of nature’s beauty. Wade, swim, float, and boat through the canyon’s chilly water; jump off giant rock formations into the Canyon below; let the rare but strong currents of white water sweep you down the lengthy Canyon. After 4 hours of Canyon fun retire to the quaint simplicity of Somoto for a quiet dinner. Hotel Colonial offers everything you need for a good time: Canyon tours, relaxing rooms, and free breakfast.
7. With volcanoes to climb, waterfalls to scale, and sunsets to watch, Ometepe Island offers the tranquility of nature, making for a relaxing home-away-from-home spot. Hacienda Merida, a down home ecological hostel provides for charming accommodations with eco-friendly practices that leave your body and soul feeling good.
8. A secluded beach near San Juan del Sur, Playa Hermosa keeps even the most ADHD travelers entertained. Zip line through jungle treetops, ride a horse along the beach, serve an ace on the sand volleyball court, or catch a wave with surf lessons. When the sun goes down, make a bon fire on the beach and walk along the water line for light show of glowing plankton.
9. Centered in a small artisanal community a short bus ride away from Managua, the Masaya Market is the place for all of your souvenir shopping. With ceramic vases, woodcarvings, leather goods, jewelry, food, and Nica nick-knacks, the market is a good place to buy, barter, or simply behold artistry.
10. The size and depth of this naturally formed Crater Lake are enough to leave you awestruck. When adding in its beauty and seemingly therapeutic waters, Apoyo becomes an easy to get to destination that cannot be missed. Go for the day or stay the night at Monkey Hut, a hostel waterside offering access to kayaks and a sub-bathing platform.
- Anna Kroos
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