At a time in my life when I needed to escape my daily routine, Nicaragua offered itself to me, immense and magnificent. The change of scenery was total; I found myself in a state of indescribable bliss, in a country where every child you meet greets you with a sincere and unprejudiced smile, where the cities are majestic and full of history, and where the beaches make anyone want to be, for a day or a week, a giant surfer facing its waves.
Here is a list of 6 favorite places in Nicaragua. If you love volcanoes, nature, warm brown sand beaches, history, and people, you will find a place in this country that you will carry in your heart forever.
Number 1, because it's my absolute favorite. Number 1 for you, because it's the first place we landed. The island, accessible by ferry from San Jorge, exudes a feeling that's hard to describe. It's impossible to believe we were stuck in Montreal traffic just 36 hours earlier. It's impossible to even believe traffic actually exists. The island is bathed in a Bob Marley-esque atmosphere: zen, warm, friendly, and musical. Rent a motorcycle or scooter and explore its winding roads, which skirt its two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas. Are you a hiking enthusiast? Don't hesitate to climb one of these two mountains—thrills guaranteed!
A perfectly restored colonial city, elegant and romantic, it's easy to explore on foot. Besides the Parque Central and its stunning, colorful cathedral, you can easily reach Lake Nicaragua and stroll along the sandy shores of Central America's largest lake. There you'll find some of the country's best restaurants and museums. Short on time? Base yourself in Granada, and a wealth of activities surrounding the city will be at your fingertips, from climbing volcanoes like Masaya or Mombacho to relaxing on the beaches and exploring cultural sites.
Nestled in the mountains, where the climate is a bit cooler, lies Estelí. The border with Honduras stretches out before you. The town itself is unremarkable, but the surrounding countryside is well worth the detour. Don't miss the Miraflor Natural Reserve, where you can discover organic farming of vegetables, coffee, and exotic flowers destined for export, and the Somoto Canyon, where you can explore a geological fault nearly 5 km long, from the bottom of a cliff that sometimes rises over 100 meters high. Whether swimming in the emerald waters of the Rio Coco or climbing the rocks, you'll be awestruck by the view offered during the dry season, from November to April, as the fault fills with water during the rainy season.
The first capital of the country during the Spanish Inquisition, León is distinguished by its hot and humid climate, a land of sugarcane and cotton. Less glamorous than its sister city Granada, it is nonetheless a city well worth visiting. Nearby, you can go to El Tránsito, where your surfboard and various yoga studios await. You can also climb Cerro Negro, a small volcano entirely covered in ash, which you descend by sled. Ranked the #2 activity in the world by the New York Times, some may find it too touristy, but hey, at the risk of disappointing you, if you go to Nicaragua, you'll be a tourist!
Want to disconnect for a night, party, and stay up until dawn? Want to meet a thousand and one people, feel the beach vibe, with music and drinks galore? Make a detour to San Juan Del Sur, located in the far southwest of the country. Fun and a great atmosphere are guaranteed, especially on Sundays during the Sunday Funday ritual!
Looking for more peace and quiet? Explore the small beaches located north and south of the city. Some are deserted, others more populated; you'll discover landscapes that might just make you want to extend your trip for a few months...or even a few years!
A hidden gem nestled in the heart of a remote countryside, Popoyo is just waiting to be discovered and charmed. Having a Dominic Purcell lookalike as our driver made my bus journey all the easier, but otherwise, with a little patience, strong bones, and a few words of Spanish, you can overcome any obstacle!
The beaches in this region are the best for surfing in the entire country! Armed with my board, and proud to be part of this happy family who spent endless hours splashing in the violent Pacific surf, I gave it a try! But I won't tell you all about it here. Limited electricity, limited Wi-Fi, no ATMs—just let yourself be carried away by the sound of the acoustic guitar as night falls, and drift off to sleep to the sound of the high tide.
An unforgettable week, where I only have to close my eyes to find myself teleported back there, even 2 years after my return...
Karine Garant, guest blogger
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