Nicaragua

Types of trips: Adventure, Geographical, Cultural, Scenery, Relaxation

Best known for: Cheap tourism, Lakes and Volcanoes, Scenery, Cathedrals, Coffee Production, Poetry

Why Go?: Nicaragua is a country of both fire and water with its young volcanoes and large coastal areas, and is full of fascinating culture and a rocky but interesting past. This destination in Central America will be memorable for people of all ages, and different (and cheaper) to the more traditional travel picks of the area!

Fact File

Population: 6,100,000

Capital: Managua

Language(s): Spanish

Ties to the UK?: Increasingly popular holiday destination

Landscape: Coastal lowlands with more central valleys and mountains and some active volcanoes.

Climate/Seasons: The temperature varies little between seasons in Nicaragua, but the areas at lower elevation are warmer than the higher. There is a distinct wet season from May - October and a dry period from December - April.

When to Go: The best weather is between December - April but this is also when prices can increase by a reasonable margin. Late November/early December will be the best time to visit to avoid the crowds. 

Reasons to Visit: Geographical education, culture

How to Get There: Air travel is the best way to get to Nicaragua from the UK, but the main international airport is still fairly small, so you may need to make several connecting flights to get there.

Places to Go: Huellas de Acahualinca, Museo de Arte Fundacion Ortiz-Guardian, Cerro La Cruz

Famous People: Daniel Ortega, Bianca Jagger, Violeta Chamorro, Barbara Carrera, Alexis Arguello

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve, Parque Historico Nacional Loma de Tiscapa

History: Conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, and achieved independence in 1821. Had a revolution in 1960's/70's, now with a stable democratic government

Architecture: Leon Cathedral, Old Cathedral of Managua

Culture: Many European influences including those of Spanish and British origin, with strong music and religious traditions and popular folklore.

Sport: Baseball, Boxing, Football

Events: Rio San Juan Carnival, Holy Week Celebration, Fishing Tournaments and Fairs

Watch Out For: There is some risk of earthquakes and hurricanes, so make sure you are aware of safety procedures and keep an eye on weather forecasts.

Medical Issues: Some vaccines are advised - check here for a good general overview but always consult with a doctor.