A Land of Unforgettable Adventure

Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America, but a history of political conflict and natural disasters has long kept it off the tourist track. Things couldn’t be more different today, when Nicaragua is considered the new “It” spot for backpackers, expatriates, and luxury travelers alike. 

People and Culture at a Glance

Though Nicaragua is fast becoming a global hotspot, it still retains its historic charm and pristine natural beauty. Nicaragua is blessed with beautiful beaches, stunning volcanic peaks, and fertile soils—but it hasn’t always been blessed with the same level of peace and stability. Nicaragua’s early civilizations were all but destroyed by Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century.

Following its independence in 1821, Nicaragua dealt with civil wars, a dynasty of Somoza dictators, and armed Sardinista insurrections, the legacy of which can still be seen in the graffiti of  León. A series of devastating earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic eruptions brought further suffering to this beautiful nation. Remnants of Nicaragua’s massive 1972 earthquake can still be seen in the capital of Managua, where more than 10,000 people died in this natural disaster.

But despite these hardships, the Nicaraguan people thrive. This is a varied and vibrant culture that retains traces of the different influences on different parts of the country. The majority of the Nicaraguan people have strong Spanish roots, but other parts of the country are more closely linked to English culture.

Nicarguan culture is especially robust in Masaya, known as “the Cradle of Nicaraguan Folklore.”  Culture flourishes in the city’ss many markets, especially the Mercado Municipal and the Mercado de Artesanias. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Nicaragua’s so-called “bewitched villages” at Pueblos Brujos.

Diria and Diriomo have a deep tradition of fortune telling, tarot card readings, and supernatural healing, which you can experience for yourself simply by walking through these villages’ streets.

Volcanic Activities

Nicaragua’s many volcanoes provide some unexpected treats for adventurous travelers. One of Nicaragua’s unique pastimes is volcano-boarding, a tropical cousin of snowboarding. A volcano-boarding tour takes visitors to the top of Cerro Negro for a hair-raising board ride down its gravel-strewn slopes.

Nicaragua’s volcanoes have also created an enormous variety of volcanic lakes. Lake Apoyo lies within a 48-square mile volcanic crater, and its waters are so blue and clear that you’ll hardly believe your eyes. Ometepe Island is an extraordinary destination in the middle of Lago de Nicaraguan formed by two volcanoes, Concepcion and Maderas.

These volcanoes actually merged to form this island, which is now a hotspot for relaxation, great food, and friendly locals. The enormous Lago de Nicaragua is host to a large array of islands, which can be visited through chartered boat trips around the lake.