Granada Old Town
Region: Granada Department
Cultural Heritage
A colonial city preserving a 16th-century cathedral and pastel-colored houses.
Tourism in Nicaragua
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Masaya Volcano National Park
Region: Masaya Department
Natural
Drive to the crater rim and view the glowing red lava lake at night.
Ometepe Island
Region: Lake Nicaragua
Natural
A haven for ecotourism featuring two conical volcanoes rising from the lake.
León Cathedral
Region: León Department
Cultural Heritage
Central America's largest Baroque-style church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Corn Islands
Region: North Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region
Beach Resort
A hidden gem for diving and snorkeling with white sand and coral reefs.
San Juan del Sur
Region: Rivas Department
Beach Resort
A Pacific port town famous for surfing and sunsets.
Somoto Canyon National Park
Region: Madriz Department
Natural
A spectacular granite canyon offering kayaking and rafting.
León Viejo Ruins
Region: León Department
Cultural Heritage
The ruins of the old capital buried by a 1610 volcanic eruption; excavation sites are open for viewing.
Tiscapa Historical Park
Region: Managua
Modern Historical Site
Panoramic views of the city and lake from the Sandino monument and former presidential palace ruins.
Rubén Darío National Theater
Region: Managua
Modern Architecture
Home of the National Symphony Orchestra; also hosts traditional dance performances.
Suggested itineraries
Volcanoes and Colonial Cities (6 Days)
Duration (days): 6
Highlights: Granada, Masaya Volcano, León, Managua city tour
A well-balanced itinerary covering history and nature, focusing on the Pacific side with minimal travel distance.
Caribbean and Pacific Coast Tour (10 Days)
Duration (days): 10
Highlights: Corn Islands, Ometepe Island, San Juan del Sur, Somoto Canyon
A comprehensive tour combining domestic flights and overland travel, covering sea, lake, and mountain activities.
Coffee Route and Indigenous Culture Exploration
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Matagalpa, Jinotega plantations, Bluefields, Garifuna villages
Experience coffee plantation tours in the northern highlands and multicultural heritage along the Caribbean coast.
Travel tips
- The dry season (November–April) is peak tourist season; book accommodations early.
- Exchange money at urban banks or ATMs for safety. U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
- Use boiled or bottled water instead of tap water.
- Long-distance buses are often converted school buses called "chicken buses."
- To avoid card skimming, use ATMs located indoors.
- Avoid solo nighttime walking in the capital; arrange reliable taxis.
- Bring reef shoes for surf spots.
- Volcanic gases in national parks can be strong; bring a mask and stay hydrated.
- Drone photography requires prior permission.
- The Caribbean coast is at risk for hurricanes in October–November.
- Tourist visas allow 90 days within the CA-4 Central American agreement for mutual passage.
- SIM cards are available at Managua Airport; two major carriers offer 4G coverage.
- Voltage is 120V with North American Type A/B plugs.
- Saying "Muchas gracias" with a smile is a powerful communication tool.
- Live Punta and Marimba performances are common on Friday nights.