Why travel to
Nicaragua is full of fun and interesting activities designed to make your stay in the country a memorable one. Lively music and art, tropical beaches, beautiful colonial cities, and diverse wildlife are all reasons why you should visit Nicaragua. Along with stunning landscapes and culture, Nicaragua offers some of the most affordable prices in all of Central America, making it a budget-friendly option that can still provide you with an unforgettable experience. Nicaragua also has incredibly friendly locals, allowing you to get to know the culture, people, and places of the country in an intimate way. All of these reasons make Nicaragua an attractive destination for any traveler.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Nicaragua can vary depending on where you live and how much you spend, but most expats can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per month for basic living expenses. This cost of living typically assumes you will be renting an apartment, have basic utilities hooked up, purchase your own food and cover other miscellaneous expenses. Additionally, entertainment and leisure activities are usually much cheaper than in the United States or Canada.
Safety
The U.S. State Department currently has a Level 3 Travel Advisory for Nicaragua, indicating that travelers should "reconsider travel" to the country due to crime and civil unrest. The State Department also warns that travelers should avoid all public demonstrations and police activity and that they should exercise increased caution in certain areas of the country. For more detailed information, please visit the official website.
Places to visit
- Granada - A colonial city and one of the oldest cities in the Americas, Granada is a wonderful destination to explore Nicaragua's history, culture and architecture. Visiting the colourful central market, exploring the narrow cobbled streets and discovering the wonderful churches will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
- Ometepe Island - This volcanic island, located within the beautiful Lake Nicaragua, is one of the most stunning attractions in the country. Exploring the two twin peaks of Maderas and Concepción will give you some of the most breathtaking views of Nicaragua.
- Volcano Masaya National Park - This National Park is home to the Masaya Volcano and several other eruptions. It is a great spot to observe the moonlike landscapes formed by centuries of volcanic activity.
- Corn Islands - The Caribbean Corn Islands are some of the most delightful places in Nicaragua. Offering white-sand beaches, great snorkelling and scuba diving, and delicious seafood, the Corn Islands are a great place to relax and soak up some sun.
- San Juan del Sur - This charming coastal town is a great destination to visit during a trip to Nicaragua. With its golden sand beaches, great surfing spots, and lively nightlife, San Juan del Sur is perfect for beach-lovers and party-goers.
Food to try
- Gallo Pinto - A traditional dish of black beans and rice, usually served with a side of fried eggs or plantains.
- Quesillo - Fresh local quesillo (cheese) served with cream and pickled onions in a crunchy tortilla.
- Vigorón - A popular street snack in Nicaragua made of chopped yuca and chicharron (fried pork rinds) served with Salvadorean curtido (spicy fermented cabbage).
- Tres Leches Cake - A delicious Nicaraguan dessert made with three milk-soaked sponges and topped with a light whipped cream.
- Nacatamal - Traditional Nicaraguan tamale made with corn masa, pork and vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Souvenirs
- Ceramic Figurines – Colorful, handcrafted earthenware figurines that depict scenes from Nicaraguan life.
- Hand-painted Wood-Carvings – A unique and beautiful souvenir, crafted from natural wood.
- Puros – Nicaraguan cigars are some of the best in the world and can make a great gift.
- Handwoven Baskets – Get a handmade basket that has been weaved together with local artisans in mind.
- Coffee Beans – Nicaraguan coffee is one of the best in the world, take home some flavorful beans.
- Tobacco Leaves – Nicaragua is well known for its tobacco, so why not take some to enjoy or give as a gift?
- Leather Goods – Nicaraguan leather is of excellent quality; get yourself a wallet, belt, or backpack.
- Silver Jewelry – Silver jewellery is a great souvenir to purchase in Nicaragua and will last for years.
- Chocolate – Nicaraguan chocolate is known for its deep, flavorful taste; pick some up to enjoy or share.
- Ceramics Plates – Take home a plate from Nicaragua, hand-painted to match the vibrancy of the country.