Overview of Nicaragua

Profile

A bi-oceanic nation bordered by the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, featuring well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture in urban areas, while the interior and Caribbean coast are rich in tropical rainforest and diverse indigenous cultures. Renowned for specialties such as coffee, cigars, and rum, Nicaragua has recently gained attention as an emerging destination for ecotourism and surfing.

Official name: Republic of Nicaragua
Common name: Nicaragua
Numeric code: 558
Alpha-3 code: NIC
Alpha-2 code: NI
Population: Approximately 6.7 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 51 people/km²
Primary languages: Spanish, Miskito, English Creole
Major religions: Christianity (Catholic and Evangelical)
National anthem: Salve a ti, Nicaragua
Calling code: +505
Internet TLD: .ni

History

After gaining independence from Spain in 1821, Nicaragua experienced civil war, U.S. intervention, the Somoza dynasty, and the Sandinista Revolution before reaching its current state.

During the colonial period, Britain influenced the Atlantic side while Spain controlled the Pacific. After independence in the 19th century, Nicaragua experienced U.S. Marine occupation and Somoza family dictatorship in the first half of the 20th century. The 1979 Sandinista Revolution transformed the regime, followed by the Contra War and peace elections. Since 2007, the Sandinista National Liberation Front has regained power, advancing social welfare and infrastructure while debates continue domestically and internationally regarding democratic governance.

Geography & climate

A diverse topography featuring the Pacific volcanic belt, central highlands, eastern lowland tropical rainforests, great lakes, and numerous rivers.

Tropical savanna and tropical rainforest climate

Area: North America / 130373 km²
Capital: Managua
Largest city: Managua
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Nicaragua, Lake Managua
Bordering countries: Honduras, Costa Rica

Natural resources

Gold, Silver, Copper, Lead, Timber, Hydropower, Geothermal, Arable land, Sea salt, Fishery resources, Tourism potential, Wind power, Coffee, Tobacco, Rum raw materials, Abundant freshwater

Politics

Government: Presidential republic

Economy

Currency: Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO)

GDP (nominal): 17.37 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 42.24 billion international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Spanish, Miskito, English Creole

Time zone: Central Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Mestizo, White Nicaraguans, Afro-Creole, Miskito, Garifuna, Sumo, Rama

Life expectancy

74.5 years

Literacy rate

83%

National sports

Baseball, Boxing, Football (Soccer), Surfing, Basketball, Rodeo