Our aim has always been to identify new and exciting destinations encouraging our clients to take the bold step before others. Nicaragua is one of those countries. John believes that over the next few years you will hear much more about holidays to Nicaragua. Just remember we were the first to urge you to go.
Why we like Nicaragua?
We tend to like places that are not over run by hordes of tourists and where the local culture remains an integral part of daily life, not just displayed for visitors. Nicaragua is just such a place and we think it is wonderful. With gorgeous beaches, superb snorkelling, varied birdlife and fabulous colonial architecture in the charming cities of Granada and Leon, a holiday in Nicaragua is a must.
What to expect on your holiday to Nicaragua
Nicaragua's infrastructure has not really gathered pace yet and the typical Central American somewhat delayed response time means that most things happen - eventually. If you can accept that way of travelling, you will find a very beautiful country with not only a rich plant and wildlife but also the impressive faded, grandeur of Spanish colonialism.
Bounded by two great oceans, Nicaragua is the largest Central American country. It has over 400 volcanic islands including several active volcanoes, sparkling rivers, rainforest, dense mangrove and some beautiful islands both in the Caribbean and also in the huge inland sea of Lake Nicaragua. You will also find some excellent hotels, a few of which have won international awards. Rather bizarrely, but charmingly, there are no street names and addresses are found through a complex system of landmarks.
Rural villages dot the beautiful landscape and horses or oxen pulling carts are a common sight on the rambling roads. The old colonial towns of Granada and Leon groan under the weight of a colourful history, timeless architecture and unique period churches. This is a unique country where real nature and an unmolested culture emerge to offer a fascinating and varied holiday destination.
Some ideas for a Nicaragua holiday
- Don’t forget to visit the colonial city of Leon, the oldest city in Central America with a magnificent cathedral and fascinating Museum of Myths and Legends.
- The Reserva de Biosfera Bosawás is the largest protected expanse of rainforest north of the Amazon and covers 15% of the country.
- The mile-long Somoto Canyon was only discovered in 2004. It drops 160 metres and at times the river is squeezed through a 10-metre gap.
- Head to the Corn Islands on the Caribbean coast. You will find it hard to leave. Superb snorkelling and diving, but not much else.
- Hike up the mighty Concepcion volcano on Ometepe Island.
- Stay at Morgans Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge or Mukul Resort on the Pacific Coast and learn to surf on some world class waves.
Beyond the Ordinary
Take a balloon flight over the active volcanoes.