Volcanic landscapes. Lush green forests. Rainforest canopies. Sparkling lakes. Ocean surf for swimming or hanging 10, beaches for sun worshipping and a healthy dose of vitamin D. We want it all – well-being is at the heart of this engaging destination. But there’s more to Nicaragua than this. Immersive and authentic community experiences, cultural heritage and history – and a burgeoning agronomy of coffee and rum.
Nicaragua’s appeal is myriad. The traveller who considers themselves part explorer and part conscious will appreciate the opportunity to go slow, inhale the clean air, dip a toe or go full-on into regenerative travel. Go off the beaten path, meet the locals and learn more about this emerging Central American destination.
Isla Ometepe is the world’s largest volcanic island in a freshwater lake, shaped by two volcanoes and filled with waterfalls, petroglyphs and jungle trails. Photo by @colinmcm
For those seeking a softer footprint and what travel trend setters are calling Quietcations, Nicaragua is among the best places to fulfil this bucket list wish. Nature takes centre stage here, inspiring a deeper connection to the land – the soundtrack provided by the wildlife and the gentle breezes that ruffle the trees and plants; Nicaragua is blessed with the highest coverage of forest in Central America, providing a home for more than 2,000 species of animals. Birdsong is the musical accompaniment, with more than 700 winged beauties taking flight and feathering their nests here. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot Nicaragua’s national bird, the “Guardabarranco” otherwise known as “turquoise-browed motmot”.
Kayak through the Isletas de Granada, a collection of 300+ volcanic islands in Lake Nicaragua formed centuries ago by the Mombacho Volcano.
Head to the Emerald Coast, a 30-mile stretch of untarnished coastline and undisturbed forest known as a surfer’s paradise in one of the country’s top spots for sustainable adventure and relaxation. A few days surrounded in this natural wonder will have your body feeling a wellness reset. Experience a release of stress and tension as you hike through one of 76 protected areas or national parks. Kayak a smooth-as-glass lake, or touch the sky as you navigate the rainforest canopy on sky bridges that may also take you through the mists of cloud forest. Surf on land via the thrilling descent of volcanic sand boarding on the black sands of the Cerro Negro; or take the board to the beach, and hit the waves for top-ranked surfing, scuba diving, sailing and fishing.
The islands you didn’t know you had to visit
Corn Island, off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast, is famous for its crystal-clear waters, laid-back vibe, and fresh lobster that locals say tastes best right on the beach.
Speaking of coastline, Nicaragua also features lovely secluded beaches and lesser-travelled villages on its islands. Little Corn Island, a mere 50 miles off the country’s east coast, is a Quietcationer’s dream. Like a microcosm of Nicaragua’s seaside culture, the beaches are welcoming without being crowded, while the turquoise water is calm and invites one to gently float away the day.
The Isletas de Granada is an archipelago forged from the fury of the Mombacho volcano. No longer active, but its island offspring numbers 365. They dot Lake Cocibolca like a string of emeralds set in the sapphire over 8,000 sq kms of clear water.
For soft and slow travellers – but who are no less adventurous
Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve. Photo courtesy of The Nicaraguan Tourism Board
Sound wonderful? We’ve created a list of favourite ways to experience the well-being properties of being surrounded by Nicaragua’s natural beauty. Do one, or do them all, it will be good for renewing and rejuvenating your body, mind and spirit.
Eco-High Wander the walkways of Maderas or soar through Mombacho by zipline, and experience the call of tropical birds and or rare howler monkeys punctuating the forest’s otherwise magical stillness.
Cultural Immersion
Beyond the beaches and forests, Nicaragua and its history is worth exploring. Marvel at the architecture of Granada, Nicaragua’s oldest city, where culture, art, gastronomy and everyday urban life meet. Don’t be surprised to hear live music and see local performances in the main square. Or go beyond the city and get involved in the regenerative travel movement. Rural and community tourism encourages sustainable adventures, unique-to-Nicaragua experiential and hands-on experiences with locals who are happy to showcase their heritage.
Go West
The rooftop of the stunning León cathedral in León, Nicaragua. Photo by Uday Misra
In the western city of Leon and its baroque vibe, you’ll find one of Nicaragua’s most significant historical monuments, the basilica de León, a world heritage site and also the final resting place of much-loved poet Rubén Dario, and where important religious works of art are on display.
Have a coffee – or a sip of rum
Nicaragua is in a unique part of the world, where its location and its environment nurtures the land to produce organic and sustainably grown coffee beans. The flavour is mildly acidic, with a smooth body and nutty bouquet. Introduce yourself to this stimulating endeavour with a coffee tour in Matagalpa, where the setting is as satisfying as the brew.
The legacy that is Flor de Caña rum is, well, legend. Five generations of Nicaraguan distillers are behind this award-winning spirit, lauded with the Distillery Sustainability Award and the Ethical Award in 2021.
Explore More and head to www.visitanicaragua.com/en/
