Nicaragua Adventure Travel Guide & Adventure Activities in Nicaragua

Nicaragua

Travel Guide

Nicaragua

Introducing Nicaragua

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Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. It has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The extensive coastal plains, interrupted by live volcanoes, make for majestic landscapes. Lago de Nicaragua is the largest freshwater body in Central America and is home to the only fresh water sharks in the world. Tourism in Nicaragua is growing at twenty percent annually and it’s no surprise. This country offers beauty and richness in its eco-tourism, adventure, beaches, colonial cities and nightlife. The exceptionally low cost of living makes this a budget paradise. Like its Central American neighbours, Nicaragua is a... (Read more...)

Introducing Nicaragua (Continued...)

land of ancient religious cultural wealth and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. The country is filled with festivals and performance. San Juan Del Sur city is also an increasingly popular surfing spot, ranked as one of the five best spots in the world.

Dry months in Nicaragua are from November through April, at this time the country experiences heat in the lowlands and much cooler weather in the highlands. Torrential downpours in the rainy season (May to October) can leave you soaked, even in the Pacific lowlands, so be aware if travelling during these months. Also be prepared for much cooler, cloudier weather in the mountainous regions. The Atlantic coast experiences the occasional hurricane each season which have inflicted a lot of damage in the past.

Kayaking

Nicaragua’s great expanse of lakes and near impenetrable rainforests makes it a perfect kayaking destination. Any kayaking trip should begin at Lake Nicaragua, the biggest freshwater lake in Central America. From here you can sail down the jungle lined San Juan River to deserted beaches in the Caribbean coast along a route once favoured by pirates on the hunt for the gold of the Spanish colonial empire. Drift through the impenetrable forest of the Indio Maiz reserve, one of the best preserved tropical rainforests in the region. You will also get the chance to visit unique riverside towns, historic ruins and hidden Caribbean lagoons.

Surfing

The massive Lake Nicaragua means that there is a constant off shore trade wind which blows nearly 330 days of the year. These winds luckily last throughout the day. If you’re not sure about ditching the more established surf spots of Costa Rica, combine the two and enjoy the best of both worlds! The diverse geographical variety of the regions means you can enjoy both point, beach and river mouth breaks. Many beaches are almost deserted so you can find your own little paradise without bumping into other surfers or bathers. Quizala is the best starting point for surfers, with excellent facilities. For the more advanced surfer, Playa el Yanqui offers a challenging adventure.

Mountain Biking

As with many activities in Nicaragua, Ometepe island is the most popular place to enjoy mountain biking. This is the largest island in Lake Nicaragua and offers varied landscapes, beautiful forests and extraordinary volcanoes. Mountain bikers flock here to enjoy the scenery, the wildlife and the adventure. This is the perfect place to challenge yourself in a luxurious tropical atmosphere. Riding down the slopes of the Cerro Negro Volcano is an exhilarating and unique experience. Less challenging destinations are available for those who just want to explore the countryside. A popular way to get around Nicaragua, you can enjoy a tranquil forest ride or a ride to one of the country’s many beaches.

Trekking

The best way to enjoy hiking in Nicaragua is volcano climbing. The danger of this challenge is an exhilarating experience, attracting thrill-seekers from all over the world. Knowing that you are standing on an active volcano, mere metres away from fiery pits of lava, is an experience that you will never forget. And Nicaragua has an abundance of volcanoes to choose from. Fortunately, tour guides provide trained guides that can safely get you to the top of the volcano and back down. Most tours include camping at the foot of a volcano and swimming in crater lakes to the exciting volcano climbing excursions. The Telica Volcano still smokes and grumbles, although its last eruption was in 1948. The hike is strenuous but the hot springs found on the hike are just as impressive. Though these trips hold a certain amount of mystery and danger, the active volcanoes in Nicaragua are closely monitored, and climbing them is highly recommended. The beauty of the forests and wildlife that surround these mountains of fire cannot be compared.

Classic Itineraries

Nicaragua’s cities are often viewed as being an attraction in them selves. The historical city of Granada has fascinating architecture, including the Church of san Fransisco - that once served as a fortress - and the impressive government buildings. Normally, however, the sights of Nicaragua tend towards natural beauties rather than ancient buildings as many historical sights have been destroyed by earthquakes. There is certainly no shortage of natural wonders to see during your trip. The spectacular island of San Pablo boasts the Volcano Mombacho, 1400m high, a prime location to enjoy a hike or canopy tour. Definitely include Volcano Masaya National Park on your itinerary. Experiencing these towering infernos is an exhilarating and unique experience. Isla Zapatera is another must-see. This national park has tombs and structures carved by ancient Indians. You are certain to have an exciting trip discovering all the sights Nicaragua has to offer in this untapped, unspoilt tourist destination.

Other Activities

Nicaragua is a beautiful country, whose potential has not been tapped by the tourism industry. Those that have seen the country’s vast array of attractions have created many interesting tourist opportunities for the intrepid explorer. With a large number of pristine beaches, the most popular activities available involve water. Visitors and locals enjoy swimming, surfing, fishing, boating, and kayaking. In certain places, where the water is clear, scuba diving is also popular. For something different you can enjoy the warm waters of a crater lagoon on an active volcano. Nature tours are another classic attraction due to the phenomenal diversity of plants and wildlife in this part of the world. You can visit a butterfly farm and even witness the marvel of turtles journeying across beaches to lay their eggs. Horse riding is another enjoyable way to see the country as you can get closer to wildlife than tourists normally would be able.

Nicaragua Adventure Travel Guide