If you love active travel, a wonderful destination is Central America. It's easily accessible from the USA and Canada, is relatively cheap and offers an astonishing variety of things to do, from treks through the jungle to spectacular scuba diving. If you've always wanted to try volcano hiking Nicaragua has everything you need.
Nicaragua is the region's largest country. It's also one of the most fascinating. In spite of their turbulent history and widespread poverty, Nicaraguans are incredibly friendly and love making visitors feel welcome and safe. They are discovering the possibilities of tourism as a way to earn foreign income and are determined not to make the same mistakes as Costa Rica.
Travelers who prefer staying off the beaten track choose the largest country in Central America rather than its southern neighbor, Costa Rica. Costa Rica has long been the destination of choice for ecotourism but it has become quite expensive. In addition, in the more touristy areas there isn't much left of the local character. Its neighbor to the north not only offers the same level of natural beauty at a fraction of the cost but also has unique attractions such as Lake Nicaragua and the Corn Islands.
The region is renowned for the many volcanoes here, due to its location at the conjunction of several tectonic plates. A large number of these volcanoes dot the Nicaraguan landscape and the country even has volcanoes on its coat of arms and its national flag. Some volcanoes are dormant but quite a few are still very active. To add to the adventure, you can try your hand at volcano-boarding, a thrilling and unique activity.
One of the best cities to base yourself in is Granada. It's a pleasant place with stunning colonial architecture and cobbled streets. There are many establishments that cater to tourists. Most importantly, from here it's easy to get two the country's two most popular volcanoes. Mombacho is dormant and is located near the city. Masaya is about an hour or so away and is active.
Two volcanoes not to miss are Madera and Concepcion. They are the twin volcanoes that form the island known as Ometepe, located in Lake Nicaragua. Apart from incredible views and the chance to wander through coffee plantations, hikes up these volcanoes can include visits to ancient petroglyphs. The island also offers beaches and plenty of affordable accommodation options.
The climate in the country is tropical. This means that it's hot throughout the year. In summer, humidity levels are very high, so if you're planning on hiking, it's best to come during the drier and cooler winter months. Bring sturdy boots, enough water, sunscreen and also a good insect repellent. You shouldn't be completely out of shape either because the hikes are challenging, especially on the way up.
When you plan a volcano hike, think about investing in the services of a local guide. This is not only for a more enriching experience but for safety as well. In Granada, simply ask at any of the local travel agencies. On Ometepe, many hotels will be able to provide a guide.
Nicaragua is the region's largest country. It's also one of the most fascinating. In spite of their turbulent history and widespread poverty, Nicaraguans are incredibly friendly and love making visitors feel welcome and safe. They are discovering the possibilities of tourism as a way to earn foreign income and are determined not to make the same mistakes as Costa Rica.
Travelers who prefer staying off the beaten track choose the largest country in Central America rather than its southern neighbor, Costa Rica. Costa Rica has long been the destination of choice for ecotourism but it has become quite expensive. In addition, in the more touristy areas there isn't much left of the local character. Its neighbor to the north not only offers the same level of natural beauty at a fraction of the cost but also has unique attractions such as Lake Nicaragua and the Corn Islands.
The region is renowned for the many volcanoes here, due to its location at the conjunction of several tectonic plates. A large number of these volcanoes dot the Nicaraguan landscape and the country even has volcanoes on its coat of arms and its national flag. Some volcanoes are dormant but quite a few are still very active. To add to the adventure, you can try your hand at volcano-boarding, a thrilling and unique activity.
One of the best cities to base yourself in is Granada. It's a pleasant place with stunning colonial architecture and cobbled streets. There are many establishments that cater to tourists. Most importantly, from here it's easy to get two the country's two most popular volcanoes. Mombacho is dormant and is located near the city. Masaya is about an hour or so away and is active.
Two volcanoes not to miss are Madera and Concepcion. They are the twin volcanoes that form the island known as Ometepe, located in Lake Nicaragua. Apart from incredible views and the chance to wander through coffee plantations, hikes up these volcanoes can include visits to ancient petroglyphs. The island also offers beaches and plenty of affordable accommodation options.
The climate in the country is tropical. This means that it's hot throughout the year. In summer, humidity levels are very high, so if you're planning on hiking, it's best to come during the drier and cooler winter months. Bring sturdy boots, enough water, sunscreen and also a good insect repellent. You shouldn't be completely out of shape either because the hikes are challenging, especially on the way up.
When you plan a volcano hike, think about investing in the services of a local guide. This is not only for a more enriching experience but for safety as well. In Granada, simply ask at any of the local travel agencies. On Ometepe, many hotels will be able to provide a guide.