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Managua/San Juan Del Sur/Ometepe 

If you never thought of Nicaragua as a travel destination, then you are mistaken. The capital city, Managua, is its economic and transportation hub was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1972. One can easily fly into Managua then explore other parts of the country such as the beautiful beach town of San Juan del Sur, the colonial city of Granada, and the volcanic island of Ometepe. Spend a 2 days in Managua, a night or two in San Juan, and two nights in Ometepe. They're all within 2.5 hours drive. 

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Where to Stay:

  • In Managua, hotels are rather cheap. Stay in the city center or Zona Rosa where there are plenty of shops, hotels and restaurants. Another option is the Bolonia district. 

  • San Juan is a bit more expensive and there are options for each type of budget.

  • Ometepe is a volcanic island with two volcanos. If you want to climb volcano Concepcion, stay in Moyogalpa island. Hotels are affordable and there are plenty of options. Make sure you get a nice hotel on the beach with good amenities.. you won't regret paying a little extra.

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Where/What to Eat:

  • You should try some of the most traditional Nicaraguan dishes such as Vigorón, Gallo pinto, Arroz a la valenciana, Chicha morada served with pipeño and Tres leches cake.

  • Try the Nicaraguan breakfast, or Disayuno Nica which will fill you up for half the day. 

  • Nacatamales made from Maize, stuffed with pork, potatoes and herbs. 

  • The best food I had was grilled chicken or fish at food stalls we found along the way. We even had a wonderful meal at someone's backyard (turned restaurant). If you have sensitive stomach, you should ease your stomach in before exposing it into the different elements.

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What to Do:

  • Spend a day exploring Managua city. Explore Plaza de la Revolucion, the Palacio Nacional de Cultura, Parque Ruben, and the Nicaragua Cathedral.

  • Spend an evening at the waterfront district of Salvador Allende which includes restaurants, bars, museums, picnic huts and even basketball courts.

  • Visit nearby volcanic lagoons and natural reserves of Chocoyero-El Brujo and Montibelli. 

  • Take a day trip to, or even spend a night at, the colorful city of Granada. For more volcano adventure, visit the nearby Laguna de Apoyo. 

  • Explore cigars making, and roll your own cigar, at one of the many cigars factories around. 

  • Spend a night or two in San Juan del Sur. Beautiful beach town with plenty of great restaurants and beach bars.

  • Spend at least 2 nights in Ometepe. Relax on the beach, hike a volcano (book a tour guide or you may never find your way up or down the 6-8 hour hike), party, and eat delicious food (charcoal grilled fish!).

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