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Nicaragua Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Known as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. Home to Lake Nicaragua (Central America’s largest lake), beautiful islands, expansive volcanic terrain, mangrove swamps, ethereal cloud forests, and tropical rainforests, Nicaragua is a stunning destination with tons of things to see and do — no matter your interests.

In fact, I loved my visit to Nicaragua so much I ended up extending my visit!

While Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur tend to pull in the crowds, if you leave the main southern cities and get a little off the tourist trail, you can discover even more varied landscapes, friendly locals, and little explored towns and national parks.

This travel guide to Nicaragua shows you how to visit on a budget, save money, and make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Nicaragua

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. Visit Little Corn Island

This archipelago off the Caribbean coast is one of the best places to relax in the country. It boasts diving with hammerhead sharks and underwater caves, fresh seafood, and plenty of hammock downtime on deserted beaches (invest in a good hammock if you’re serious about your R&R). Don’t miss Otto’s Beach.

2. Relax in San Juan del Sur

This picturesque surfer paradise is fringed with prehistoric volcanic hills and was the first destination to put Nicaragua on the map. Backpackers flock here in droves to surf and party under the stars. It’s a must-visit destination in the country!

3. Admire colonial Granada

Nicaragua’s oldest city is revered as the colonial jewel of Central America. Many of the pastel-painted buildings have been meticulously restored. Bask in Granada’s historic grandeur as you weave through the cobblestone streets, visit local art galleries, and sip on a coffee in a plaza.

4. Tour León

From world-class museums, Central America’s largest cathedral, and other beautiful monuments to a lively party scene fueled by the ample student population, León is one of my favorite places in the country. Sample the best roadside quesillo and see the local artists who give the city its eccentric flavor.

5. Explore Ometepe Island

Spend your days hiking, kayaking, or cycling around the island, spotting howler monkeys and archeological ruins in the process. Two of the two volcanoes here (Concepción and Maderas) offer strenuous 8-10-hour hikes. Guides are mandatory and cost 530 NIO.

Other Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. hike miraflores.

Miraflores national park was the highlight of my entire trip. Located in Estelí in northern Nicaragua, this is a stunning cloud forest with rivers and waterfalls. You can take day-hikes or multiday treks to the park (the multiday trips enable you to stay with local host families in small communities) and there are also programs to help you learn to farm. The one-day trek that I did ran from 7am-4pm and cost 550 NIO which included two meals and a mandatory guide. An extra bonus that I loved is that all the money goes back into supporting the community and farmers.

2. Explore Rio San Juan

This river is a wonderful stopover for nature enthusiasts looking to go kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Despite the surge in eco-tourism in the region, accommodation options are still no-frills and very low-key, with Wi-Fi and phone coverage being scarce. Most tours leave from San Carlos, which is located at the mouth of the river on Lake Nicaragua.

3. Hike a volcano

Nicaragua has 19 volcanos (9 of which are active). The two peaks on Ometepe –– Concepcion and Maderas –– are the two most popular day hikes in the country. Concepción, towering at 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) is a baking hot hike, so bring lots of sunblock and water. Maderas is easier but muddier, with a lake at the summit. Cerro Negro (near León) offers a comfortable sandy route from top to bottom and is also well-known for “volcano surfing.” Masaya Volcano is the most active volcano in Nicaragua and you can actually see the lava bubbling there (visits are limited to 10 minutes due to the fumes). For people wanting a challenge, try San Cristobal, Nicaragua’s highest volcano. If you’re hunting for scenic Insta-worthy views, hike to Telica (also within easy reach from León) for a spectacular sunset (you can actually camp at the top).

4. Relax at Lake Apoyo

Laguna de Apoyo is a breathtaking body of water that sits upon the Apoyo volcano crater near Granada. This 200-meter-deep lake is the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and sailing. Hostels offer day trips from Granada for around 300 NIO, which include a return shuttle and include use of another hostel’s facilities, kayaks, and tubes on the lagoon. You can also visit independently and stay overnight if you want a longer visit.

5. Tour a coffee plantation

Coffee is Nicaragua’s primary export and Jinotega, the misty and mountainous northern region, produces over 80% of the country’s output. You can organize a coffee tour in any of the eco-lodges/hostels dotted around the region. I particularly liked Eco Albergue La Fundadora. Even though I don’t drink coffee, it’s a fascinating and important industry in the country (and region) and worth learning about.

6. Relax at the Pearl Cays

The remote string of crescent-shaped playas that make up the Pearl Cays (pronounced “Pearl Keys”) offer some of the best Caribbean beaches in Nicaragua. Unfortunately, due to climate change, this stunning collection of white islands is steadily shrinking. Located near the Corn Islands, there are currently only 10 left from the original 18. Accommodation on the island is super exclusive and very pricey. However, day trips by shared speedboat can be easily arranged to make visits affordable. Private boats start from around 8,800 NIO and fit up to 10 people. Come here to snorkel, swim, and lounge away the day.

7. Visit the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve

Bosawas is the second-largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere and is home to jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys, harpy eagles, and more. A huge chunk of the country’s bird population — 600 out of 790 species — are located here, making it the prime spot for wildlife and bird watching. Multi-day trips, where you can truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, hike cloud forests, swim in waterfalls, and meet Mayangna and Miskito indigenous communities start at around 12,000 NIO per person.

8. Explore the Solentiname Archipelago

Isolated on the southwest tip of Lago de Nicaragua, the Solentiname Archipelago is a cluster of 36 islands revered for their pristine collections of primitive art, birdlife, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s best to base yourself in Mancarrón and organize day trips to other neighboring islands throughout your stay. It’s roughly a four-hour drive from Managua to San Carlos and then and then a two-hour boat ride to the dock in Mancarrón. There are no ATMs to be found on the islands so bring plenty of cash.

9. Shop at the Masaya Markets

Stock up on rum, coffee, hammocks, and ceramics at the Masaya Markets in Masaya National Park near Managua. Barter your way through the markets and soak up the colorful atmosphere. While there is a lot of tourist junk here, there are still plenty of artisanal handmade crafts as well. On Thursdays, a weekly ‘Night of Revelry’ features traditional dancing, local food, and music. The market is just thirty minutes from Managua.

10. Visit the stone carving hermit

Near Estelí in the north you can find Alberto the hermit. He’s been living here for almost 40 years, carving stone figures and sculptures in the jungle. He’s eccentric, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in the region. Stop by to see his carvings and learn about his life in the jungle. Here’s a video of my visit .

11. Check out the Isletas de Granada

Southeast of the city of Granada in Lake Nicaragua, you can find the Isletas de Granada (Grenada Islets). There are around 365 of these volcanic islands, some of which are inhabited. A few have hotels on them or you can take a one-hour boat ride around them to admire their pristine beauty (it costs around 1,400 NIO for a boat that can take 8 people).

12. See Somoto Canyon

Dating back to the Miocene epoch (23-25 million years ago), Somoto Canyon is a relatively unexplored part of Nicaragua. Located near the border with Honduras, it was discovered by Czech and Nicaraguan scientists in 2004 and, since then, its spectacular walls and clear water have become a popular tourist destination. Activities here include hiking, boating, and scaling the canyon walls. The narrowest part of the canyon can only be reached by swimming or by tubing. Somoto Canyon Tours offers a variety of tours lasting from 3-6 hours with prices starting at 880 NIO.

13. Do a homestay/Learn Spanish

If you have a bit more time to spend in Nicaragua, there are lots of opportunities to volunteer, learn Spanish, and farm by taking part in a homestay (Estelí, Ometepe, and León are popular destinations for this). Hostels and tourist offices in any of the big cities can help you arrange it.

Nicaragua Travel Costs

Accommodation – Small 6-8-bed dorms generally cost around 250-350 NIO per night, with private rooms costing between 700-1,700 NIO. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common and many hostels also have a swimming pool.

For a budget two-star hotel, expect to pay between 1,000-2,600 NIO for a double room including breakfast. Expect basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, A/C, a TV, and sometimes a swimming pool.

Airbnb is available on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast as well as in Grenada and Managua (there are no rentals on the Atlantic side). You can score a great beachfront property from 2,800-4,200 NIO depending on group size and house style. For a private room, expect to pay at least 880 NIO per night.

Food – Beans, rice, and meat are the backbone of most meals in Nicaragua. Grilled chicken, pork, and beef are common options (especially for street food). Gallo pinto (fried rice and beans) is the go-to breakfast and dinner meal, with an egg often being added for the breakfast option. Be sure to try the popular quesillo , a tortilla wrapped around white cheese smothered cream, and nacatamales , a tamale made from maize dough stuffed with pork and potato.

A typical lunch, eaten in a comedor (local eatery serving tradition cuisine), or street stall costs between 100-175 NIO. Nicaraguans are more accustomed to dining out for lunch so travelers can expect to see fewer evening options available in non-touristy spots.

On the coast, seafood is the main staple so expect a lot of grilled fish. On the Caribbean side, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Caribbean culture as well.

A meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 345-520 NIO for a three-course meal with a drink.

The touristy towns and on the coast have more international cuisine options. Expect to pay 800-1,200 NIO for a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant. A large pizza costs around 270-350 NIO. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay around 210 NIO for a meal.

A domestic beer or latte/cappuccino costs around 30-90 NIO.

If you’re buying a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay between 1,100-1,300 NIO for basic staples like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Nicaragua Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 1,100 NIO per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, use public transportation and chicken buses to get around, limit your drinking, cook all of your meals, and enjoy free and cheap activities like free walking tours and lounging on the beach.

On a mid-range budget of 2,800 NIO per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi or coach between cities, and do more paid activities like diving or guided day hikes.

On a “luxury” budget of 8,200 NIO per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like take domestic flights to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in NIO.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Nicaragua is one of the cheaper countries in the region but prices are rising quickly as it becomes more of the “it spot” to retire and work remotely from. Here are some of the best ways to save money during your trip:

• Take the chicken bus – Chicken buses (crowded local buses that make multiple stops) are the cheapest way to travel. You can save big time if you’re willing to trade A/C and cushioned seating to travel on a decommissioned school bus for a few hours. For example, the 3.5-hour trip from Granada to Rivas costs just 70 NIO!
• Refill your water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with you. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and safe!
• Use the right currency – Pay with US dollars in bigger cities and save your córdobas for purchases at small businesses in rural areas and villages since they won’t have change for larger USD bills.
• Bring cash – Cards are accepted in major establishments and big cities. However, electricity can be fickle on the coast so it’s best to carry plenty of cash in case you’re caught out in a blackout.
• Learn some Spanish – Inflated tourist prices are common here. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid the crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities are cheaper.
• Choose less-traveled routes – Prices for activities and accommodation plummet when you leave the tourist triangle (Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur). Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and venture off the beaten path.
• Share private taxis – If you’re traveling in a small group, a taxi can often work out cheaper and more time-efficient than a bus or shuttle. Negotiate the price beforehand and ask your hostel for the normal rates so you have a reference.

Where to Stay in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for places to stay during your visit, here are some of my favorites:

• Hola Ola Hostel (San Juan del Sur)
• Viavia Leon (León)
• De Boca en Boca (Granada)
• Managua Backpackers Inn (Managua)

How to Get Around Nicaragua

Bus – Chicken buses (i.e. converted school buses) are the cheapest way to get around. They are slow and stop often but have dirt cheap prices (around 35 NIO per hour of travel).

If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey, book with a coach company or private mini-shuttle, the latter of which are air-conditioned with cushioned seating and have storage room for your luggage.

For private mini-shuttles, expect to pay between 880-1,750 NIO per trip, however, you can try and buddy up with other hostel guests to drive down the price since it’s a private booking.

Most of the large cities have public transportation with local bus tickets costing under 6 NIO.

Air – La Costeña, Nicaragua’s domestic carrier, is based out of Managua and serves most of the country. Even if you’re keeping spending to a minimum, you have to take a flight if you want to visit the Corn Islands. Return tickets from Managua to the Corn Islands cost 5,700 NIO. For the 2.5-hour flight from Managua to Bluefields, expect to pay at least 4,500 NIO.

Train – There are no trains in Nicaragua.

Car Rental – A 4WD is recommended if you’re planning to visit rural areas as the roads here can be rough. Prices start from around 1,400 NIO per day for a multi-day rental. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and you’ll definitely want to have extra insurance too.

When to Go to Nicaragua

There are two distinct seasons in Nicaragua: the dry season, which falls between November-April, and the green (rainy) season which is from May-October.

To avoid the crowds and peak prices, visit during the rainy season. The rainier months also offer ideal surfing conditions and deserted beaches to enjoy the waves. Just keep in mind the Caribbean coast sees more rain than the Pacific. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F).

The San Sebastian festival in Diriamba runs between January 17th-27th and is an amazing way to celebrate a local fiesta, with colorful parades, traditional music, and street-side buffets filling up every corner.

Easter (Semana Santa) is when you can find most locals hitting the mountains or beaches with family and friends. Buses and hotels, particularly on the coast, fill up fast so be sure to book in advance if you’re visiting during this time. Note that cities are much quieter during this period and many local businesses adapt their opening times/hours and events to celebrate the religious holiday.

How to Stay Safe in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in Central America, though petty theft and robberies are still relatively common. For that reason, keep your belongings secure and out of sight at all times — especially on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here when out during the day, however, they will want to avoid traveling alone after dark. Additionally, the usually standard precautions apply here as well (always keeping an eye on your drink at the bar, never walking home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight, and make sure to have suitable insurance just in case as break-ins can occur.

Scams are rare here, but they do happen. Be wary of random strangers asking for medicine or other financial assistance. Just politely decline and be on your way. You can read about common scams to avoid here .

Inflated tourist prices are common in Nicaragua. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged

Many people come to Nicaragua to party as drugs and alcohol are both cheap and abundant. However, the fines and penalties for drug use are steep. Police often expect bribes that can cost of hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars. Police won’t hesitate to strip search you if they suspect narcotics so avoid using drugs here to stay safe.

Moreover, the drug trade contributes to deaths, instability, and unrest in the region. Don’t contribute to that.

Protests and clashes in the major cities aren’t uncommon. Should a protest occur during your visit, avoid the area and return to your accommodation. While you’re unlikely to be hurt, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

As always, keep your wits about you at night time, particularly in the capital. Ask your hotel to call you a taxi in Managua (always negotiate the price before getting in the car), which can be an intimidating spot for travelers due to the lack of road names, tourists, and landmarks.

If you experience an emergency, dial 118 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Nicaragua!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

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An affable all-rounder, Nicaragua embraces travelers with diverse offerings of volcanic landscapes, historic towns, sensational beaches, remote, idyllic islands, wave-battered Pacific beaches and pristine forests.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Reserva Natural Volcán Mombacho

It’s been a few decades since this 1345m volcano, the defining feature of the Granada skyline, has acted up, but it is still most certainly active and…

Convento y Museo San Francisco

One of the oldest churches in Central America, Convento San Francisco boasts a robin's egg–blue birthday-cake facade and houses both an important convent…

Museo Arqueológico Huellas de Acahualinca

Discovered by miners in 1874, these fossilized tracks record the passage of perhaps 10 people – men, women and children – as well as birds, raccoons, deer…

Iglesia de la Recolección

Three blocks north of the cathedral, the 1786 Iglesia de la Recolección is considered the city’s most beautiful church, a Mexican-style baroque confection…

Antigua Catedral

The hollow shell of Managua’s Old Cathedral remains Managua’s most poignant metaphor, shattered by the 1972 earthquake – and slowly undergoing restoration…

Volcán Maderas

Isla de Ometepe

Climbing this 1394m volcano is challenging but worthwhile. Guides are required for the seven- to eight-hour round-trip trek (with four to five hours of…

Volcán Concepción

This massive (and active) volcano is an Ometepe landmark. The seven- to 10-hour hike up loose volcanic stone to the summit of this looming peak can be…

Museo de Arte Fundación Ortiz-Gurdián

Probably the finest museum of contemporary art in all of Central America, the Ortiz-Gurdián Collection has spilled over from its original home in Casa Don…

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Nicaragua Travel Itinerary | 7 or 10 Days of Great Things to Do

Last year I jumped on a great airfare deal and booked a trip that followed this two-week Nicaragua itinerary.  Starting in Granada, I explored Nicaragua’s colonial heritage before heading south to the beaches of San Juan del Sur (surf paradise) and then traveling back inland to the magical, volcanic Ometepe Island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua.  Along the way I ate delicious food, relaxed on spectacular beaches and yes, saw more monkeys than I could count!

Personally, as I discuss in depth below, I feel that Nicaragua is a safe travel destination that is absolutely worth visiting. With most of the (infrequent) political protests occurring in the capital city, I set out to write two Nicaragua travel itineraries that skirt the capital – one seven-day Nicaragua itinerary that focuses on colonial Granada and Pacific San Juan del Sur, with a quick overnight stop on the shores of a volcanic lagoon, and a second ten-day Nicaragua itinerary that adds in a two-night stop on breathtaking Ometepe Island.

If you’ve been thinking of traveling to Nicaragua, I recommend that you consider following one of these two routes.  They’re safe, they’re easy and they are so beautiful that, like me, you’ll be talking about them for years to come!

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 1 | Arrival in Managua

I didn’t actually venture into Managua, Nicaragua .  With less than two weeks to see the country, I wanted to focus more on its natural beauty than its urban environments, so I made plans to travel directly from the Managua airport to Granada, Nicaragua.  I booked a scheduled shuttle service with Adelante Express , which also offers private shuttle service from Managua to Granada and San Juan del Sur.  Since I was the only passenger on the scheduled shuttle, I ended up getting a private transfer for less than $20 USD.  The distance is quite short (less than fifty kilometers) but the trip can take up to 75 minutes due to slow-moving traffic, and I was glad to be in an air-conditioned vehicle for the trip.

I’ve heard that there are shuttles leaving from the Managua airport that don’t require a reservation, but nobody offered me one when I arrived and I didn’t see any signage for shared transportation.  If you’re on a very tight budget, you can take a public bus from the airport to Managua’s busy bus station, and then transfer to a public intercity bus to Granada.  This will probably take about two and a half hours, since buses make frequent stops along the way, and there won’t be much room for your luggage.

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 2 – 3 | Granada

Granada is a charming colonial town situated on the banks of Lake Nicaragua, in the shadow of the Mombacho Volcano.  You can easily explore the city center by foot in a day, but there are also some interesting excursions that made it worthwhile to include a second day in Granada in your Nicaragua itinerary.

Where to Stay in Granada

When I was in Granada, I stayed at Hotel Guardabarranco , a quaint, family-run hotel about four blocks from the city center.  Hotel Guardabarranco is built in the traditional local style, with rooms on two floors around an open courtyard (where you’ll find a refreshing little pool, the breakfast area and a small lounge).   They aren’t currently taking new bookings, but similar properties nearby include El Arca de Noe and Hotel Plaza Colon .

If you’re doing your Nicaragua travel on a tighter budget I can recommend Hostal Azul in Granada.  Also built around a courtyard, but with a more rustic and outdoorsy feel, Hostal Azul has a good mix of super-cheap dorm rooms and reasonably-priced private rooms (including one double with a private bathroom).  The staff at the hostel were so friendly and invited me to join in a few of their social events, even though I wasn’t a guest!  The popular Selina chain of hostels has also opened Selina Granada , complete with a hostel swimming pool.

Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua

Spend your first day in Granada simply wandering around the colonial city center, taking in the different districts, the colorful architecture and the touches of traditional Central American lifestyle.  You’ll probably want to start your wandering at the Central Plaza (shown above) where the bright yellow cathedral will immediately catch your eye.  You’ll also notice that each corner of the plaza is marked by a stall selling vigoron , a local specialty made from cassava, pork rinds, pickled cabbage and hot chiles.  As a vegetarian I kept a very wide berth, but locals swear by this “unique” concoction!

There are other beautiful public buildings on the streets around the Central Plaza.  The stairs in front of the bright white San Francisco Church are a popular hangout place for local teenagers and young adults, and I often grabbed a smoothie from one of the nearby cafes to enjoy on the stairs (with a little side of people-watching).

Beside the San Francisco Church you’ll find the San Francisco Convent Cultural Center , a miniature museum and garden highlighting the ethnic, cultural and artistic heritage of the region, along with rotating feature exhibits.  There are lovely views from the gardens inside, and the exhibits are worth a quick peek.

You’ll also want to spend an hour or so wandering around the Municipal Market ( Mercado Municipal ) , a sprawling market where you can buy everything from souvenirs to fresh produce to housewares to clothing.  I’d heard that the streets around the market were popular with pickpockets, but I felt safe as I weaved between the stalls and checked out the goods for sale.

From the city center it’s quite easy to walk down to the shores of Lake Nicaragua (and you’ll pass the moody Guadalupe Church , shown above) but there isn’t much to see at the shore right in town.  Instead of walking down to the lake, I’d recommend that you speak to your hotel or hostel about joining a boat trip around the Isletas , or little islands, where you’ll likely be able to spot all different kinds of birds (and maybe even some monkeys too!).  Most tour operators include return transportation to and from your hotel in the price.

A second day in Granada gives you enough time to explore some of the attractions outside of the city.  Masaya is a small city about twenty kilometers west of Granada (in fact, you might have passed it on your way in from the airport).  Most buses to Granada will stop at the turn-off from the highway to Masaya’s city center, and there are also dedicated public buses that run right into town.  Masaya isn’t particularly interesting or picturesque, but it’s one of the best places in the country for tourists who want to buy arts, crafts and souvenirs during their Nicaragua travel.  The Mercado de Artesanías (Cultural Center Old Craft Market) is jam-packed with vendors selling clothing, housewares, art and even food items.  It’s definitely touristy, so only visit if you’re specifically on the hunt for souvenirs.  

Photo via Yellow Magpie on Flickr .

Later in the day, talk to your hotel about joining an evening tour to the Masaya Volcano .  You want to arrive around sundown, as the views of the active lava flows inside the volcano are much more powerful in the dark of the night.  (I’ve heard you can also visit right before sunrise, but… are you crazy? )  After waiting in a queue along the highway, your car will eventually be allowed into the park.  On your way up the hill you can stop at a small volcano museum (there’s a clean toilet inside!) before driving the last stretch up to the viewing platform.  You can spend about twenty or thirty minutes at the top before being asked to leave so that the next visitors can enjoy the natural show too.

Recommended Restaurants in Granada, Nicaragua

• The Garden Cafe – Healthy, locally-inspired cuisine in a pretty garden atmosphere.  Prices are a bit high, but the menu is expansive and flavorful.  Make sure to check out their lovely gift shop and bring a book to swap at their book exchange.
• Nectar – On the main tourist street, this isn’t your typical tourist restaurant.  They’ve got lots of vegetarian options, along with the city’s best fish tacos (apparently – I’m a vegetarian!) and even kombucha!
• Wok & Roll Granada – You don’t necessarily come to Nicaragua for stir-fry, but Wok & Roll had a lovely second-floor patio and lots of different stir-fry options.  Prepare to be flexible as not everything on the menu will be available.
• Kathy’s Waffle House – I didn’t actually eat here because my hotel ( Hotel Guardabarranco , just around the corner) had a lovely breakfast, and I was never nearby at lunch.  However, I  smelled the waffles here every morning when I walked by, and I’m still kicking myself for not having a second breakfast one morning!

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 4 | Laguna de Apoyo

Laguna de Apoyo is a natural volcanic lake that straddles the border between Granada and Masaya.  The lake itself is a little more than six kilometers across, and it reaches depths of up to 175 meters at its center.  The lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, bird watching and even scuba diving, and if you’re on the shorter itinerary (seven days, rather than ten) this is an easy way to take in some of Nicaragua’s natural splendor without making the boat trip all the way to Ometepe Island.

There are no regular buses from Granada to the shores of Laguna de Apoyo .  Instead, buses drop you off at the exit from the main highway, and you’ll have to wait for one of the infrequent passing taxis to take you the last seven kilometers to the beach clubs (I use that term in the most zen way possible – there’s no pumping techno music here!) and hotels on the lake’s far west shore.  Since that is quite inconvenient (especially with luggage) I suggest asking your accommodation (at either end) to organize a direct private transfer.  I do recommend that you stay by the lake for one night, as it’s a truly magical place in the quiet of the evening.  A few accommodation options include:

• Casa Marimba – North of the main road, the menu at this eco-lodge is vegetarian by default (with meat on request) and there are on-site yoga and massage services.
• Casa Bella – A lovely bed and breakfast surrounded by dense foliage, this is a great place to stay if you’re hoping to see a howler monkey in the trees outside your room!
• San Simian Lodge – Consisting of rustic bungalows spread throughout a lush garden, this is an affordable option for travelers who want to become one with nature, as the private bathrooms are located in the great outdoors!

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 5 – 6 | San Juan del Sur

On the wild Pacific Coast, San Juan del Sur is a classic beach town that transitioned from being a small fishing village to becoming an international surfing hot spot (much like Sayulita, Mexico ).  Today, San Juan del Sur has a thriving young expat community that works with locals to make this one of Central America’s most exciting destinations.  There are frequent private shuttles and public buses between Granada and San Juan del Sur (though if you’re coming from Laguna de Apoyo you’ll need to backtrack to Granada to catch one).

Where to Stay in San Juan del Sur

Personally, if I was to return to San Juan del Sur, I would first try to get a room at Casa Oro Eco Hostel .  I visited Casa Ora several times, and thought it seemed like an awesome spot for solo travelers.  They had a spacious lobby and bar, organized lots of different activities, and coordinated transportation all over the region.  While they do have cheap dorm rooms, the private rooms are also very affordably priced.  As a weird bonus (for me…) there were like, six laundromats on the next street over and I found great same-day laundry service!

For a private room at hostel prices, Estrella Beachfront Hotel is a solid option.  The rooms here are simple but very large, and most have doors that open onto a terrace with breathtaking beach views.  Take note that bathrooms here are shared!  The Estrella Beachfront Hotel is only about twenty meters from the beach, so it’s a great choice for surfers and sunbathers.

Like in Granada, Selina has also opened a location in San Juan del Sur.  Take note, though, Selina Maderas is about twenty minutes outside town (by car) and a fifteen-minute walk from Maderas Beach. They cater to digital nomads here, though, so there’s good WiFi, a comfortable work space and a nice pool.

Things to Do in San Juan del Sur

Towering above San Juan del Sur, and not shown in any photos because I was looking down, not up, there is a giant statue of Jesus Christ .  Standing about 135 meters tall, the statue is surrounded by a viewing platform that is perfect for watching the sun set over the Pacific Coast.  From the beach, it takes about an hour to hike up (so give yourself lots of extra time if you’re coming from town) and it costs about $2 USD to enter (the guards never have change, so don’t bring a $50 bill!).

The best surfing in San Juan del Sur is at the many beaches that dot the coastline north and south of town.  Any surf shop in town can arrange equipment rental and transportation to and from these beaches, along with a lesson if required.  Since I was staying in a rented room behind a surf shop, I rounded up a few travel friends and tagged along on one of their trips to Playa Maderas , a small, rugged beach with a protected cove that is great for new surfers and even just for floating around in the water.  Moke Huhu Surf Shop had a little stand set up at the beach with hammocks, sun chairs and coolers for drinks, and it looked like other surf shops were also working to expand the infrastructure here.  There was also a restaurant near the main entrance that served up a great plate of vegetarian nachos (more than enough for two people for lunch!).

Where Playa Maderas is small and rugged, Playa Hermosa is a never-ending stretch of soft white sand, backed by a lush tropical rainforest… and owned and operated by a private hotel.  There are lots of thatched huts with beach chairs and sun loungers available for day use visitors, clean bathrooms are available on site, and there are restaurants and beach bars where you can grab lunch, beer, cocktails or a fruit smoothie.

Playa Hermosa is beautiful but it has several flaws.  During high season this “eco-lodge” packs in hundreds of partiers from organized group tours, blasts music at an appalling volume (including songs with language that is definitely not PG-13!) and serves thousands of cheap drinks out of plastic cups, that end up being thrown all over the sand (how is that an eco-lodge?).  As well, their shuttle service is completely unreliable, so you do need to organize your own transportation, which can be difficult as the road to the beach is not popular with local drivers.  I’d recommend a visit during the shoulder season with your own pre-arranged transportation (and probably not your own personal rental car).  You can also stay overnight here, but based on my experiences I wouldn’t recommend it.

San Juan del Sur is a cool little beach town, much like San Pancho or Sayulita in Mexico.  Even if you make two day trips from the city (one two Playa Maderas and one to Playa Hermosa, for example) you’ll still have two mornings or evenings free to explore the city center.  Expect to find lots of independent boutiques selling trendy beachwear, street vendors selling souvenirs, fruits and vegetables, and a thriving restaurant and bar scene.

Recommended Restaurants in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

• Barrio Cafe – Probably the best breakfast I had in Nicaragua, you’ve got to check out the huevos rancheros at Barrio Cafe.  Since my guesthouse didn’t include breakfast, I came here twice for the iconic breakfast dish, served in a deep dish of spicy salsa and topped with crispy tortilla strips.
• Dale Pues – Dale Pues was super-close to my guesthouse, so I also ended up eating here twice.  On my first visit I had a breakfast sandwich, which was great, and then I returned late for a veggie burger.   Both meals were good, and the top-floor seats overlooking the street below are great for people-watching.
• Simon Says – With a hidden back garden, this healthy smoothie shop is great for breakfast for a light lunch.  Ask for their recommendation as to the freshest, most in-season fruits for your smoothie, and if you’re really hungry, order one of their famous salads or sandwiches as well.
• San Juan del Sur Cerveceria – Also known as Nicaragua Craft Beer, this locally-owned brewery features their own craft beers on tap (yay for happy hour!) and has a short menu of fun bar food (including vegetarian options).

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 7 | Return to Managua OR Travel to Ometepe Island

If you’ve only got a week, it’s time to start heading back to Managua .  Your travel options include public bus (cheap at about $5, but slow and a little uncomfortable, the public bus will drop you off at the main bus station in Managua), shared shuttle (usually door-to-door service, but more expensive at about $50) or a private transfer (which could easily cost upwards of $100).  I had an overnight wait before my early morning flight, so I booked at a room at the Camino Real Managua .  It’s a little pricey, but it’s clean and comfortable, with a nice swimming pool and complimentary airport shuttle.

However, if you’ve got more time, it’s time to start making the epic journey towards Ometepe Island .  I have an Ometepe Island Travel Guide in another post, but I’ll focus on two days’ worth of highlights here.

To get to Ometepe Island from San Juan del Sur, you have the same three options as above.  You can take a public bus, but it will only take you as far as Rivas.  From there, you’ll need to take a second bus or taxi to the port of San Jorge.  I’d recommend the second option – one of the shared shuttles that leave once or twice daily from San Juan del Sur and take you all the way to the San Jorge port for about $25.  The last option, a private taxi to the port, would cost about $50 or $60.  If your hotel can’t help you with the transportation, ask at reception at the Casa Oro Eco Hostel in SJDS.

At the port, you can purchase your ticket for the next available boat.  There are two types of boats – larger ferries and smaller lanchas .  Generally speaking, the ferries are considered to be safer and faster, and it’s worth a short wait for the next ferry if you’re the kind of traveler who notice safety hazards everywhere!  The trip across will take between sixty and ninety minutes, and there is a chance your bag will get wet if you’re on a lancha and your bag is stored underneath (yet another reason to wait for the ferry!).

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 8 – 9 | Ometepe Island

Ometepe Island , or Isla de Ometepe, is a volcanic island situated in the middle of Lake Nicaragua.  The island is made from two volcanoes ( Volcan Maderas and Volcan Concepcion ) that are joined by a narrow strip of land.  As such, nearly all of life on Ometepe Island takes places along the island shores, which are ideal for nature-lovers of every budget and activity level.

Where to Stay on Ometepe Island

There’s a good chance that your ferry or lancha will dock in Moyogalpa, on the north end of the island.  However, I suggest that for a ten-day Nicaragua travel itinerary, you skip Moyogalpa and head directly to Balgue , which is just southeast of the isthmus.

In Balgue, I stayed at La Urraca Loca Hostel.  This is a lovely, European-run hostel with a small dorm room on the ground floor and two private double rooms on the upper level.  The shared washroom is downstairs and somewhat outdoors, so be prepared to brush your teeth with the butterflies!  The owners at La Urraca Loca can help you organize all sorts of different activities during your stay on Ometepe Island, and their homemade vegetarian breakfast is absolutely delicious!

If La Urraca Loca is full during your stay, look into a stay at Hotel Finca Magdalena , a working coffee plantation just up the hill behind La Urraca Loca, or try Ananda Guesthouse , an off-grid guesthouse where the three private rooms offer private bathrooms and views of the volcano or lake.

Things to Do on Ometepe Island

I have a huge post about all of the amazing adventure travel activities that you can do on Ometepe Island , so click on on over for more information about everything from kayaking volcanoes to kayaking with caimans.

Generally, I would recommend one day of strenuous active sightseeing.  This could mean climbing one of the volcanoes (which is seriously strenuous) or just hiking up to the San Ramon waterfall .  You can read about both of those on the post linked above, and the staff at La Urraca Loca hostel can help you book both trips.

On your second day, take things a little bit easier .  You could do a tour of the island (transportation options include private taxi, ATV rental or just hopping on the back of a “scooter taxi!”) with a short stop for kayaking and looking for monkeys on the Rio Istan, or you could walk into the field behind the La Urraca Loca Hostel and up the hill to the coffee plantation, passing petroglyphs along the way.

For something completely relaxing, travel nine kilometers up the road from Balgue to the Ojo de Agua , a natural swimming hole that is popular with locals and tourists.  It tends to fill up on weekends and holidays, so if you can visit on a weekday, go for it!  Admission costs $3 and there are lots of chairs, tables and picnic areas where you can relax between dips in the refreshing water.  There are also some hiking trails that looked quite interesting, though I only made it about half a kilometer in before I had to rush back to catch my ride.

Recommended Restaurants on Ometepe Island

• Nectar – The second Nectar I’ve recommended in this post (the first was back in Granada!), Nectar Cafe is located just down the road from Balgue, in Santa Cruz. This is basically a little shack beside the road with four tables under a palapa, but guys, the food here is amazing!  I had the vegetarian curry, which was  packed with flavor and served with rice, tortillas and a fresh salad.  Highly recommended!
• Cafe Campestre – A happening spot in Balgue, Cafe Campestre has lively live music, amazing food (like my pesto pasta dish, that used fresh peanuts in place of the pine nuts) and abysmal service.  Bring a book, and probably your own utensils too.
• El Pital – Chocoholic?  Don’t miss a quick stop at El Pital, a beachfront chocolate factory, “superfoods magic cafe” and even hostel.  You’ve got to see their “magic balls” (basically, acai bowls on a chocolate acid trip), and I’d recommend bringing home a few bars of their organic, vegan chocolate as souvenirs.

Nicaragua Itinerary Day 10 | Return to Managua

Travel in Nicaragua can be slow and unpredictable, so leave plenty of time in your plan to make it back to Managua in time for your flight.  I suggest heading to the capital the day before your flight and then booking a room at the five-star Camino Real Managua .  Here, you can decompress with a cold beer by the pool, or take a hot shower in your air-conditioned room, as you prepare for your next-day flight.  The hotel’s complimentary shuttle can whisk you to the airport the next morning in under ten minutes.  Yes, there are cheaper airport hotels (like the Best Western Las Mercedes , directly opposite the airport) but I think the Camino Real is the most comfortable place to end your Nicaragua travel itinerary.

Is it safe to travel to Nicaragua?

I traveled to Nicaragua as a solo female shortly before the country erupted into political turmoil in April 2018.  At the time of my visit, I felt that Nicaragua was very safe for solo travelers and for female travelers, and I came home ready to recommend Nicaragua as a completely safe travel destination.

However, since my visit, the political situation in Nicaragua has changed.  Personally, though, I would not hesitate to return to Nicaragua today.   Simply put, if you follow my recommended Nicaragua travel itinerary, you are very unlikely to encounter any kind of political protests or other conflicts, as they are mainly occurring in the capital (Managua).  One of the main reasons I have recommended that travelers stay at the Camino Real in Managua is because it is close to the airport and far from the center, allowing you to keep your distance from any protests that arise.

Even though Nicaragua is safe, you’d be crazy to visit Nicaragua – or any other country – without travel insurance.  I no longer recommend any specific insurers on this blog, so please do your own independent research and find a provider that meets your needs and your budget!

Are you thinking about visiting Nicaragua?  Let me know in the comments if you have any questions!

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Home » Central America » Nicaragua » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Nicaragua Travel Guide

Backpacking Nicaragua was without a doubt my favourite adventure in Central America. With chilled surfing beaches, crazy party towns, towering volcanoes and stunning landscapes, backpacking across Nicaragua is an experience unlike any other.

Travelling to Nicaragua is relatively easy and you can arrange pretty much all of your travels yourself. Best of all, Nicaragua is a very easy country to go backpacking in; it’s cheap, safe, and small – meaning the travel distances aren’t too awful.

While its southern neighbor Costa Rica remains the more mainstream backpacking destination, Nicaragua is fast becoming a far cheaper (and better) alternative. Whether you dig beach time, adventure sports, hiking, partying, or all of the above, Nicaragua has some pretty awesome adventures to get into.

This Nicaragua travel guide includes everything I learned in my 6 weeks there and all you’ll need to prepare for your backpacking trip in one of my favorite countries on earth.

Get information on Nicaragua travel itineraries and backpacking routes, maps, travel tips, safety, things to do, and much more. Most of all you will walk away with all the inspiration you need to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.  Vamonos Pues! 

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Why go Backpacking in Nicaragua?

If you’re backpacking Central America , consider checking out this beautiful country is a no-brainer. Travelling in Nicaragua offers up the opportunity to explore and experience a variety of unique landscapes and local culture. Most people will start their journey on the coast if they are arriving from neighboring Costa Rica or Honduras. The capital city of Managua is home to the international airport.

If you are flying in, you can catch a bus from Managua to most places of interest. There is a booming scene of expats who are committed to spending most of their year surfing Nicaragua’s Pacific coast.

Nicaragua’s colonial cities of Grenada and Leon are full of interesting locals, open-air markets, history, and a good party scene. This is also where you’ll find lots of Nicaragua’s hostels and backpacker accommodations.

The volcanic island of Ometepe is straight outta backpacker heaven. You can explore miles of dirt roads on a motorbike, swim under waterfalls, and hike a volcano. Then there is the rum. The Caribbean coast is isolated, wild, and stunningly beautiful. A journey to Nicaragua’s less-visited Caribbean coast is full of exploration potential. Luckily, the Corn Islands are yet to be touched by the backpacker hordes (probably because they are more expensive than anywhere else in Nica).

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Nicaragua

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Below I have listed several travel itineraries for backpacking Nicaragua. If you have a month or more to visit Nicaragua, it’s easy to combine a couple of these itineraries and put together a larger backpacking route.

4 Weeks: Nicaragua Highlights

A month is a perfect timeframe to see a generous swath of the country. This Nicaragua itinerary has you starting off from the capital Managua; however, you can easily start from the north or south as well. Soak in the vibes in Grenada before heading to Ometepe. You can catch a ferry from Rivas to Ometepe for about $2 USD.

For the loudest party, and also most gringofied town in Nicaragua, head to San Juan Del Sur. There are some great places to surf directly around SJDS. The quieter beaches are short drive south. You can check out more great beaches as you cruise the coast north towards Leon.

From Leon, head to Somoto Canyon to explore one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful natural landscapes. From here you can carry on to the interior of the country if you wish, or you can head back to the coast to chill and drink rum on the beach. If you still have a bit of time to work with you can head to the Caribbean coast, either by air or by boat. Catching a boat is way more fun. Like way more fun. Think untouched rainforest, dense jungle, and slow scenic travel.

Two Weeks: Explore Pacific Coast, Cities, and Volcanoes

Some of my favorite places in Nicaragua are relatively close to each other. This means tackling a two week backpacking route is easy and also shouldn’t involve a single 10-hour bus ride. Of course, this backpacking loop can be flexible according to your own interests and tastes. If you love Ometepe, stay there for a week.

Keen for some surf? You can dig into to life at a surf camp. If cities and history are your thing, spend a couple extra days in Leon or Grenada. Some of the best, untouched beaches in the country can be found on the coastal stretch between San Juan Del Sur and El Transito.

10 Days: Explore the Caribbean Coast

When it comes to getting to the Caribbean, you have two options. You can either fly to Big Corn Island from Managua (with returns costing around $180) or you can take a series of buses and boats for around $30. From Managua, catch a bus to El Rama and then a boat down the river to BlueFields, maybe pause a day in BlueFields to check out the legendary cocaine scene.

From Blue Fields, catch another boat to Big Corn Island and then a panga – a small boat – to Little Corn. Little Corn is a great place to spend a few days exploring, swimming and snorkeling. You could also check out the Pearl Keys, but you would need to hire a boat and this would be expensive.

Whilst the Corn Islands do receive a bit of tourist traffic, a vast majority of the Caribbean coast sees far less backpacker traffic than other parts of the country. The potential for off the beaten path travel here is enormous.

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Now that we’ve covered some of the best travel itineraries for backpacking Nicaragua, let’s dive in and explore some of the best places to visit in Nicaragua on your adventure…

Backpacking Managua

When I first arrived in Managua I was greatly underwhelmed. The city is not exceptionally pretty and it felt strangely Americanized due to all of the American fast-food joints and strip malls. Managua is a major transportation hub for the country, so if you are traveling around Nicaragua, you are bound to pass through Managua at some point.

There are some fun things to do in Managua, however. If you have a day or two to kill in the city, I recommend a hike to the highest point in the city: the hill of Tiscapa. From here you can escape the chaos of the city while catching some great views.

The Santiago Cathedral is an impressive building worth a visit. Fun fact: the cathedral is one of the few old buildings in the city that wasn’t completely destroyed by the devastating 1972 earthquake that wreaked havoc on most of the urban landscape.

The Santiago Cathedral is an impressive building worth a visit. Fun fact: the cathedral is one of the few old buildings in the city that wasn’t completely destroyed by the devastating 1972 earthquake that wreaked havoc on most of the city.

Backpacking Leon

This stunning colonial city is a great place to get stuck. I ended up lingering here for nearly two weeks in the extremely comfortable Trailwinds Hostel. Wherever you stay, try to find a hostel in Leon with a kitchen as eating out every day get’s expensive.

The Pan Y Paz bakery is well worth finding for delicious bread, pastries and coffee and if you really fancy splashing out head to Carnivore for amazing meat dishes or Antonino’s for big pizzas.

In the evening, there are plenty of hopping bars with one of the liveliest scenes being at the Bigfoot Hostel. Make sure to check out the stunning cathedral in the main square, for just a dollar you can get right up on top of the whitewashed roof where you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city.

The nearby art museum, Museo de Arte fundación Ortiz guardian is also well worth a look and a good place to spend an afternoon. Whilst in Nicaragua keep an eye out for the greatest smoothie chain in the world – Siembras y Cosechas – I recommend going for the raspberry, blueberry and pineapple shake! You can also arrange a visit to a  cigar factory from the city and this is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Backpacking Somoto Canyon

This is must for any adventure-junkies itinerary. Exploring Somoto Canyon is definitely worth it if you have the time. Just bear in mind that the canyon is a five hour journey from Leon by chicken buses and so you can end up losing two whole days just getting there and back from Leon.

I do not recommend going with a tour company; it’s a waste of money. Instead, just rock up at the canyon entrance and hire a guide for $25 for the day. The guide will provide you with life-jackets and everything else you need to explore the canyon safely, you will spend the day floating, swimming and jumping into the river winding through the canyon.

Some of the jumps, many of which are optional, are up to eighteen meters high! If you choose to spend the night, I recommend crashing at ‘Henri’s Farm’.

Backpacking Granada

An easy hop from Leon by chicken bus, Granada is another colonial city with gorgeous buildings, a vibrant night-life and historical sites. You don’t need too long, perhaps just a day, to get a feel for this city but make sure you visit the cathedral and bargain hunt for hand-made souvenirs in the central square.

Be sure to stay in the incredibly good value Hostel Oasis and to find the Hot Dog Connection for some of the cheapest and tastiest burgers in all of town.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also check out the nearby Pojo de Rojo Treehouse hostel but be warned, this hostel has seen much better days and the vibe just feels all wrong. Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip, choose your Granada hostel wisely!

Backpacking Laguna De Apoyo

My all-time favorite place in all of Central America is Laguna De Apoyo, you should definitely make the effort to head to this enormous fresh-water lagoon, which is a short hop from Granada. Stay in Paradiso for a couple of nights, you won’t regret it. Love photography ? Capture Nicaragua’s different shades of color as the tangerine sun dances along the edges of the lake.

Backpacking Ometepe Island

From Granada, take a chicken bus to Rivas and another bus to San Jorge to catch the ferry to  Ometepe Island . Most travellers opt to spend a couple of days here: one exploring the island by motorbike (you can hire one for around $20 a day) and another to hike to the top of Maderas Volcano. You can easily spend a week here.

I recommend staying at the Landing Hostel , it is cheap, friendly and right next to the ferry dock. For breakfast, check out the Corner House. Ometepe has it all. Once you have a motorbike you can leave the main traveler hubs to discover an island that is surprisingly underdeveloped. La Cascada de San Ramón is a waterfall tucked back in the hills close to the village of Merida. Hint hint… Go there and cool thyself!

Long story short a hike there is rewarded with a brilliant swim in the pool underneath the waterfall. The water is crisp and cool and feels like heaven with the mid-day sun burning over head.

Backpacking San Juan Del Sur

As soon as you arrive in Central America you will start seeing ‘Sunday Funday’ tank tops upon hordes of backpackers. This near-legendary event consists of getting well and truly plastered on a Sunday pub-crawl. My sources have informed me that both cocaine and MDMA are available in San Juan Del Sur, but I met more than one backpacker who had been screwed over so be careful.

Inside San Juan Del Sur itself, there isn’t much going on, besides an amazing Italian Gelato place (go for the Nutella!). SJDS is mostly just a party town. The real charm is in the surrounding beaches. It makes for a good pitstop if you are enroute to Costa Rica, or just feel like a few days of eating and drinking. To get a proper idea of what the area is about, definitely hit up the beaches just outside of town.

Backpacking Playa Madera

A popular surfer hang-out, this is a good place to rent a board for a day ($10) and hit the waves. Most travelers backpacking Nicaragua want to have a crack at surfing and this is one of the best places to learn.

This beach is however normally pretty busy and the food is very expensive. Bring snacks. Likewise, it is an expensive place to stay although if you have a tent you can camp for free. I recommend turning right (as you face the ocean) and walking along the beach, over the rocks and onto the next beach along.

This is a much quieter place to stay with just one small restaurant and two guesthouses, Matilde’s is the best option. If you have the time, you can rent a house to live in from just $20 a day. The next beach over from Matilde’s is completely isolated – it takes just two minutes to walk there but there are currently no buildings, whatsoever.

It is pretty much like having your own private beach. If you’re there at the right time of the year, you may see baby turtles scrambling down towards the sea.

Backpacking Bluefields

If you’re keen to check out the Corn Island, then you will certainly pass through Bluefields first. One can score some of the best ceviche in Nicaragua from one of the food stalls here.

Rumor has it that Bluefields is a place where drugs, specifically cocaine is abundant. While it can be a good time to sniff a few lines, do not blow your entire budget on getting high. Also, keep in mind that the cocaine trade is responsible for thousands of deaths across Central And South America. Not to make you feel bad, but it is important to keep that in mind when deciding where to spend your cash.

Reserva Silvestre Greenfields is a beautiful nature reserve where you can go hiking or rent a canoe. It is located near the town of Kukra Hill, a 30-minute boat ride from Bluefields. Return transport from Kukra Hill to the reserve costs US$10 per visitor.

It is possible to take a ferry from El Rama or Bluefields to the Corn Islands. The departure times can be vary based on sea conditions. Typically the journey takes 5-7 hours and costs roughly $8 USD.

Backpacking Little Corn Island

Little Corn Island is the clear winner for backpackers between the other Corn Islands. Welcome to paradise amigos! The beaches of Little Corn are something out of a dream. It would be hard to find a better place suited for lounging in a hammock with your favorite book.

The best thing about Little Corn? It is really mellow. You won’t find huge gangs of backpackers slamming drinking buckets (thank god). The stunning natural beauty and the chilled out vibe make the effort to reach the island totally worth it.

Just in case you weren’t psyched enough to visit Little Corn, get this: there are no cars on the island! Cheers to keeping it simple and just walking or biking everywhere! It is possible to take a PADI open water diving course here if you are keen to learn how to dive.

The certification usually takes three to four days and can cost about $300 USD.

Off the Beaten Path Travel in Nicaragua

There is a definitive “gringo trail” in Nicaragua consisting of the popular surf towns and the colonial cities. The river systems of interior and Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua are especially wild.

Exploration potential is endless here. I am sure that as time marches on, Nicaragua will continue to be more and more developed as is the case everywhere. So get yourself to Nicaragua and explore the many hidden gems this country has to offer!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Nicaragua is bursting at the seams with awesome things to do. No matter what your timeframe is there are many exciting adventures to be had to suit every backpackers’ individual taste. I have listed the  top 10 most popular and best things to do in Nicaragua  below to get your ideas flowing for your next trip backpacking Nicaragua!

1. Learn about Sandinista history in Leon

The Sandinistas were a Nicaraguan revolutionary organization active in Nicaragua from the late 1970’s to the early 1990’s.

There are many ex-Sandinista folks living in Leon and throughout Nicaragua. Leon was particularly important as it was a strategic base for Sandinistas during the Nicaraguan Revolution.

2. Learn How to Surf

With no shortage of fabulous beaches and surf schools, no backpacking trip to Nicaragua would be complete without hitting up the surf at least once. After catching your first wave, you will be hooked, I promise.

3. Climb a Volcano

Nicaragua is home to 19 volcanoes, and some of the best volcano hiking in Central America . Ometepe Island is home to the impressive Volcan Concepción. The hike takes a lengthy 10 hours round trip, though you will feel like a badass upon completion of the trek.

4. Explore Somoto Canyon

Enjoy one of Nicaragua’s less-frequented destinations at Somoto Canyon. Hire a local guide and hike, swim, and explore. The canyon is stunning; you will not be disappointed.

5. Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

Flying down a volcano at top speed is one hell of a good time. There has never been a more satisfying way to descend a volcano.

There are several volcanoes to choose from with Cerro Negro being the most popular. It’s easy to arrange a day-trip from Leon or, if you prefer, you can even sign up for a 3 day hike across multiple volcanoes.

6. Hunt for Coconuts on Little Corn Island

It goes without saying that this is clearly the best free thing to do in all of Nicaragua. Once you find some coconuts to enjoy, the next step in honing your coconut-opening skills!

7. Check Out Laguna De Apoyo

The area is home to an excellent nature reserve with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy.

8. Camp on the Beach

Camping is at any of the various surf camps found along the Pacific coast is cheap…and awesome. Watching a sunrise from the comfort of your tent is a price experience in Nicaragua that I hope you get to have.

9. See Ometepe Island by Motorbike/ATV

There is simply no better way to explore this beautiful volcanic island. Whilst riding a motorbike, always be safe and remember to wear a helmet for christ’s sake!

10. Explore the San Juan River by Boat

If you love winding rivers, epic jungle scenery, and wildlife spotting, head to San Carlos and explore miles of untouched rainforest by boat through the San Juan River. This area is truly mind-blowing. If you love exploring wild places, you will love a boat trip up the San Juan.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Most regions in Nicaragua have a wide variety of budget accommodation options. These range from your standard backpacker hostel to crude surf camps on the beach to jungle bungalows.  Prices vary but the average price of a dorm bed throughout Nicaragua is between $7-12 USD. If you are traveling as a couple it usually ends up making sense to go for a private room as the price will be about the same.

You will be pleased to know that Nicaragua has some of the cheapest hostels anywhere in Central America. A dorm bed in neighboring Costa Rica can often be double the price of a Nicaraguan dorm bed. If you are keen to camp, many hostels offer camping as an option.

There are many places where you can camp on the beach for free. Otherwise, Couchsurfing is the cheapest (free) way to go, and a great way to meet other locals; however, some of the places will not have much of a Couch Surfing scene. Airbnb is huge in Costa Rica, and you can find some awesome apartments for cheap prices.

While hostels are one of the cheapest accommodation options, eco-lodges in Nicaragua are also incredibly affordable as they are largely off-grid, meaning they don’t have to pay high prices for electricity.

The Best Places to Stay in Nicaragua

Good news amigos: Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries in Central America to go backpacking. You can eat well, move from place to place with ease, and score some pretty cheap accommodation.

I spent on average between $25-30 USD a day whilst I was backpacking in Nicaragua. It is certainly possible to do it cheaper than that if you are camping heaps, hitchhiking, and cooking some of your own food.

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend on your backpacking Nicaragua adventure…

A Daily Budget in Nicaragua

Money in nicaragua.

There are lots of international ATMS, but they can be tough to find once you are outside of the cities and are in more remote areas. It’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once – just make sure you hide it well.

If you need to transfer money internationally, use Transferwise , it’s the fastest and cheapest way to move money around when travelling.

You should always have some emergency cash hidden on you and I’ve written an entire post on the best places to hide your money .

Top Tips – Nicaragua on a Budget

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst traveling in Nicaragua I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp:  With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Nicaragua is an excellent place to take a tent. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking.
• Cook your own food:  I took a small gas cooker with me to Nicaragua and cooked a lot of my own meals whilst hitching and camping, I saved a fortune.
• Hitchhike:  In Nicaragua, it is so so easy to thumb a ride and it is an ace way to keep your transport costs down and instead spend it on smashing experiences. So hitchhike as much as you can when backpacking Nicaragua.
• Tone down the partying: Booze bills add up. If you drink less, you will save money. Simple as that.

Why you Should Travel to Nicaragua With a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world , be sure to watch the video below.

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

If you can, try to avoid the rainy season and visit the country from November to April. The really popular guest-houses fill up fast so this is a country where it can definitely be worth making reservations.

The best time to go scuba diving or snorkeling in the Corn Islands is December- March. Expect more travelers in general around the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Low season is May to October. As it’s raining all the time, making some rural area are hard to pass & hiking trails super slippery. However, this weather pulls in some of the biggest swells, especially on the Pacific side of Nicaragua, where all the good surfing breaks are.

High season is between December & April, when the sun is shining. Like everywhere prices increase, accommodation books out & the tourist hot spots are packed! Check the weather in Nicaragua here .

Festivals in Nicaragua

Nicaraguans love to party. There are a variety of fun festivals taking place though out the year.

• Magma Festival: Nicaragua’s largest EDM festival in the shadow of a volcano on Ometepe Island. Come on out for an epic couple of days.
• Rio San Juan Carnival: Lucky enough to be in San Juan in January? This festival should not be missed if you’re in town! Expect plenty of dancing, local artisans and delicious food.
• International Poetry Festival, Grenada : An annual international festival that takes place in the city of Granada. More than 150 poets from all parts of the world congregate at this event to recite their best poetry.
• Latin American Surfing Competition : As much as surfing in Nicaragua has evolved, so have surfing-related activities developed throughout the country. This event is the biggest of its kind in Nicaragua. Come out to see some excellent surfing and the associated fun nightlife. This fest takes place just outside of San Juan Del Sur at Playa Madera.

What to Pack for Nicaragua

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

In general, Nicaragua is a very safe country to go backpacking in. That said, Nicaragua’s population suffers from high unemployment and subsequent poverty. Any time you visit a country with socio-economic problems it is possible that someone will try to take what you have. Targeted robberies against foreigners are rare but they do happen.

Being out late, drunk, and alone is a recipe for trouble anywhere in the world. There have been reports of backpackers getting held up on remote sections of beach on both coasts as well as in cities.

Odds are you should be just fine. If ever you run into a hold-up situation give them what they want and don’t resist. Your iPhone and wallet are never worth dying over, ever!

Be aware that Nicaragua is home to many species of poisonous spiders, snakes, and other dangerous creatures. Always watch your step when trekking through the jungle. Never stick your hand somewhere you haven’t first seen with your eyes.

Always go surfing with a buddy and never get in the water if you have been drinking.

Learn More:   Backpacker Safety 101

Sex, Drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll in Nicaragua

Nicaragua has long been renowned as one of the party capitals for travelers backpacking Central America. Cocaine is cheap and pretty easy to find if that’s your bag. Booze is cheap and Nicaraguans enjoy sinking a few beers in the evening.

The people are friendly, Tinder works a treat to meet up with locals and other backpackers, and there are plenty of beach parties, clubs and raves… if you know where to look!

Avoid traveling with drugs in Nicaragua, the police sometimes search backpackers aggressively – and never cross an international border carrying drugs. If you do choose to indulge in heavier partying whilst in Nicaragua, take it easy – cocaine in Nicaragua is strong, cheap, and addictive.

Travel Insurance for Nicaragua

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

Citizens of some countries like the US, UK and a lot of European countries can travel to Nicaragua without a visa. Other tourists can obtain a Tourist Card for $10 valid for 1 month to 3 months (depending on citizenship) upon arrival.

Entry Requirements for Nicaragua

You need to have a valid passport with at least six months to run to enter Nicaragua. There is also a $32 departure tax which is included in airfares with major airlines. This departure tax applies only if you are flying out of the country. The exit fee at a land border should be around $3 USD.

Many backpackers fly into the international airport in Managua and start their adventure there. If you’re already backpacking Central America, you can cross to Nicaragua from Costa Rica or Honduras by bus or car.

Bear in mind that you will have to pay $12 at any land crossing. There are no international trains going into Nicaragua, but there are international buses available between Managua and San Jose, Costa Rica, San Salvador, El Salvador and Honduras.

They are air conditioned and make fuel and food stops along the way. If you are planning to go by bus make sure you book in advance as the buses between the major cities can fill up days ahead of departure dates.

The companies Transnica  and  Tica Bus  are fairly reliable.

There are also cheap but terribly uncomfortable “chicken buses” a few times a week between Managua and Guatemala City for $20. It is quite an experience traveling to Nicaragua in a chicken bus, they are seriously funky…

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Nicaragua offers a crazy range of travel experiences. It might take some getting used to, but boy is this country fun! To properly explore Nicaragua I recommend catching buses – they are cheap and very frequent. Be sure to try out at least one chicken bus experience!

This is definitely the main mode of travel in Nicaragua, and a great way to get to know the country’s geography, people, and even the culture. You cannot be polite on a chicken bus; grab a seat and grab it fast or end up sitting on a sack of rice (if you’re lucky!).

Often your backpack will be thrown on top of the bus, never fear; shit doesn’t tend to go missing. Still, keep your valuables in your daypack and your daypack on you. Most long-distance buses have TVs (surprisingly!) that play popular films and they also serve snacks and drinks during the journey and at stops. Beware of the endless loops of terrible Latino movies…

A chicken bus seat would cost you roughly $1. You could also catch an Express Bus, be sure to book it at least a day in advance. A ticket should cost you about $6. Another option could be to catch minibuses.

They run regularly between Managua and nearby cities like Granada, Leon, Masaya, Jinotepe and Chinandega. Like Express buses they make fewer stops but expect them to be overcrowded as jamming more people in means the drivers make more cash… There are many advantages to being a shorter backpacker when traveling in Nicaragua!

This is obviously more expensive than catching buses, but if you’re short on time this is the best way to get anywhere on the Atlantic Coast.

Boat is the only way to get to some of the islands like Isla de Ometepe. You could also take weekly trips if you are comfortable on a boat for long hours. It’s a pretty cool way of exploring Nicaragua.

Taxi –  Be very careful and haggle as much as you can in Managua. Check that the taxi sign is on the roof and that the taxi operator license is clearly visible in the front seat. In smaller towns, there is a fixed rate so it’s fairly easy.

Be careful/ use common sense when choosing a taxi and haggle as much as you can in Managua. Check that the taxi sign is on the roof and that the taxi operator license is clearly visible in the front seat. In smaller towns, there is a fixed rate so it’s fairly easy.

Having a knowledge of basic Spanish will help you sort out prices.

Hitchhiking in Nicaragua

Hitchhiking is generally easy whilst backpacking Nicaragua. Most people don’t have cars, so if you are in a rural area, the few with cars or trucks tend to stop for lots of people. They get a kick out of foreigners. So make sure you act like a fascinating and exotic tourist.

Hitchhiking is common in rural areas and small towns, but not recommended in Managua. Nicaraguans themselves usually only travel in the backs of trucks.

Some drivers may ask for a little money for bringing you along but it’s usually not more than a dollar. Like in most of Central America, there are lots of mini buses and it’s not so easy to spot taxis on the road, be sure you know if you’re paying or hitching free when you climb in any type of vehicle.

Onward Travel from Nicaragua

There are several land border crossings between Nicaragua and El Salvador, Honduras, and Costa Rica. It is easy to do this on your own; just catch a local bus to the border town, walk across, and you’re on your way!

Nicaragua is fast becoming a popular base for digital nomads from around the world. Being one of the cheapest countries to live in Central America, Nicaragua has a lot to offer remote workers looking for a beautiful, affordable place to call home for the short or long term.

Outside of cities and along remote sections of coast, the internet is not great so keep that in mind when choosing a place base yourself.

Apart from online work, you may be able to find under the table work as a volunteer bar tender (working for room and board) or as a yoga teacher at one of the many foreign-owned hostels found along the Pacific coast.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in Nicaragua

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Nicaragua which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Nicaragua is one of the poorest developing countries in the Western Hemisphere, so there are plenty of opportunities for backpackers to contribute some skills. Whether you know your way around farming, social work, hospitality, or language teaching, you’ll be making a huge difference to local communities. You’ll also find opportunities in photography, bartending, animal care, and marketing. If you’re from outside the US, you’ll need to contact the Embassy of Nicaragua in order to obtain the appropriate visa. 

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in Nicaragua? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs, like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Food in Nicaragua

Eating delicious food is one of the best parts about traveling. There are no shortage of tasty things to try in Nicaragua. Eat local as much as possible! You will find many fast food joints, especially in the cities. But you certainly did not come to Nicaragua to eat at Mcdonalds, right?

Gallo Pinto — A dish as famous in Nicaragua as it is in Costa Rica. This tasty bean and rice combo is a national staple of the country.

Fresh Seafood — If you find yourself on the coast, trying the fresh fish is a must.

Ceviche — One of my favorite foods of all time. A dish made up of raw fish marinated in lime juice, which usually includes onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and chili peppers.

Chicharrónes — Fried pork belly or pork skin, typically served with a dipping sauce or as part of another dish. A great bar snack.

Arroz con Pollo — Chicken served with rice and fried plantains. A tasty comfort food and often great bang for your buck.

I found that Nicaraguan locals were very welcoming people. They have not yet felt the jaded indifference that sometimes accompanies mass tourism destinations.

They are full of humor and dirty jokes. Learn some Spanish so you can understand them! In talking to some ex-Sandinista revolutionaries, I gained invaluable perspective on what life was life in Nicaragua during that period. I found them to be surprisingly open about their experiences.

If you visit any farms in Nicaragua, expect a very warm welcome. Farm owners/workers are happy to tell you about what they do, and you can score some fantastic coffee if you visit a coffee operation. Support fair trade and organic agricultural practices at all cost!

Nicaragua Travel Phrases

Learning a bit of Spanish is a great way to get the most out of your trip. When I became fluent in Spanish, it really changed the way I was able to travel in Nicaragua and beyond. It is such a useful language to know! You can speak it in over 20 countries!

Here are a few helpful Nicaragua travel phrases with English translations for your backpacking Nicaragua adventure:

Hello –  Hola 

How are you? – Cómo estás?

Very good – Muy buena

Beautiful – Hermoso

Cheers –  Salud

Shit – Mierda ! (a very light weight insult)

Shit eater – Come Mierda (for better effect!)

What? – Qué?

Where? – Dónde? 

Do you have a lighter? – Tienes un encendedor? 

No plastic bag –  Sin bolsa de plastico

No straw please –  No paja por favor

No plastic cutlery please –  No hay cubiertos de plástico por favor

Two beers please – Dos cervezas por favor 

Down that beer! –  Hasta que la cerveza!

Can you give me a ride – Me puedes dar una vuelta?

What is your name? – Cómo te llamas? 

How much does this cost?  – Cuánto cuesta? 

Can you give me a discount? – Me puede dar un descuento?

Books to Read While Traveling Nicaragua

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Nicaragua, which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

• Lonely Planet Nicaragua Travel Guide – It’s always worth having a Lonely Planet packed away, plenty of useful info on bus routes and where to go.
• The Jaguar Smile – In this intriguing book, Salman Rushdie brings to the forefront the palpable human facts of a country in the midst of revolution and political disturbance.
• Blood of Brothers Life and War in Nicaragua  – This book is a vibrant portrait of the Nicaraguan people and their volcanic land, a cultural history rich in poetry and bloodshed.
• A Twilight Struggle: American Power and Nicaragua  – A detailed history and analysis of the Nicaraguan Revolution and the American response to it.
• My Car in Managua – Another take on Nicaragua’s political history but the illustrations by Nicaragua’s celebrated political cartoonist Róger Sánchez Flores really enliven the text.

Brief History of Nicaragua

Nicaragua’s modern history is rooted in the story of the Sandinista rebellion, their brief success, and ultimate defeat suffered at the hands of a US backed military apparatus. Wounds from the revolution period have healed to a degree, but there are still many people who currently live in Nicaragua whose lives were changed forever during the years of revolution.

Although the initial overthrow of the Somoza regime in 1978–79 was a bloody affair, the Contra War of the 1980s took the lives of tens of thousands of Nicaraguans and was the subject of fierce international debate. During the 1980s both the FSLN (a leftist collection of political parties) and the Contras (a rightist collection of counter-revolutionary groups) received large amounts of aid from the Cold War super-powers (respectively, the Soviet Union and the United States).

The Contra War ultimately ended following the signing of the Tela Accord in 1989 and the demobilization of the FSLN and Contra armies. A second election in 1990 resulted in the election of a majority of anti-Sandinista parties and the FSLN handing overpower.

It is unbelievable to me that the USA government so openly supported the Contras and were never held accountable for crimes against humanity, which certainly occurred in many forms during the war. CIA trained Contras? Yeah, that was a thing.

Modern Life in Nicaragua

Post revolution life in Nicaragua has seen slow development of the country’s economy and standard of living. In recent years, Nicaragua’s economy is on the rise, especially in the tourism sector.

As Nicaragua’s tourism industry expands, it is my hope that the natural treasures of the country are protected in a reasonable way, the way things have been organized in Costa Rica. Nicaragua is decades removed from war, and there is a feeling of peace felt through out the country.

I hope for the sake of Nicaragua and it’s people that it stays that way. The way things are looking now in Nicaragua, I am filled with positive optimism for this beautiful country.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Nicaragua

Do you love trekking? You have come to the right place my friends. Nicaragua offers up some excellent trekking opportunities for those looking to spend time outdoors. There are plenty of awesome day hikes to be found all over the country.

If you are looking for a multi-day backpacking trip, Quetzaltrekkers is a great organization offering just that. All the money they make from running trekking trips goes directly in supporting kids and local schools. A trip with them is very reasonably priced and was a great experience for me. I can’t say enough good things about the folks at Quetzaltrekkers!

Scuba Diving in Nicaragua

The Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua has some excellent places to go diving. If you do not have a PADI certification, you can take an open water course on one of the islands. It is not the cheapest place in Central America to get certified, though to be honest I can’t think of a better location to do it in.

If you already have your PADI cert and,, the obvious choice is to head to the Corn Islands. The water visibility can be terrific when the sea is calm and the sun is shining (which is often, see weather in Nicaragua section).

I recommend shopping around at the different dive shops to see who has the best prices. If you intend to do multiple dives, usually you can negotiate a deal with the price.

My brother Alex is somewhat of a diving sensei and he’s got a great guide on scuba diving in the Corn Islands . There’s even a sexy video to go with it!

Surfing in Nicaragua

If you haven’t figured it out by now, Nicaragua is home to some world-class surf beaches. If you are looking for somewhere to dig in, learn to surf, and become a beach bum, Nicaragua is one of the cheapest places in the world to do that.

The surf in Nicaragua varies, but in general, the waves (on the Pacific side) are perfect for both beginners and those with more advanced levels. Hit the beach, catch some waves, and leave (or not) with immense satisfaction.

I hope you have enjoyed this Nicaragua travel guide. You are now ready to get your boots on the ground and experience this magical country for yourself amigos!

Backpacking Nicaragua was one of the most fun and rewarding times of my life. Nicaragua is one hell of a good time and it remains one of my favorite countries I visited in all of Latin America.

I am certain that you will leave hungry for more. One trip simply isn’t enough to absorb all of the awesomeness that Nicaragua has to offer. Enjoy the hell out of the paradise that is Nicaragua!

• Backpacking Costa Rica
• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Best Hikes in the World
• The Best Travel Journals

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Will Hatton

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16 Comments

I came across this article looking for information about travelling to Nicaragua. I live in Costa Rica and often go to either Nicaragua or Panama to get my passport stamped. Granada is where I plan to go next. My friend tells me its a cool city. I went to San Juan del Sur on my last visit and I would recommend this beach town for sure. If you are ever visiting Costa Rica it would be good to see you at Jaco Ropes I offer free tours to any one with a blog so lets connect

Here is a link to the site if you want to visit it http://www.jacoropes.com/

Thanks Jason, this looks so amazing. When Im back that way, and Im sure I shall be, I’ll have to come check it out. Thanks again for the invite, man!

Reading your post has got me so stoked!! I’m planning a trek through Central America in October, and Nicaragua is definitely on the itinerary!

Not to be missed, have a blast, Tamara!

I’m heading there with my girlfriend in november ! We’ll backpack the country for 2 months 😀

Great article !

Great read. I have always had Nicaragua high on my list, but my Spanish refuses to become anything other than clumsy. How would I get by with mainly English in Nicaragua?

I’ve managed to make do out here with largely no-spanish… just try and learn a few basic phrases, ‘donde esta bus estasion’, ‘quanta queste’, ‘la quente por favor’ – and you will be fine 🙂 Most Nicaraguans are super friendly and usually there will be other backpackers there who speak some Spanglish…

I always hear great things about Nicaragua, I’d love to visit someday soon. Great guide, I’ll be sharing it with friends

Cheers Craig! Was just checking out your site, love the idea of one day guides!! 🙂

I Loved Nicaragua. Its hard for me to decide which one I liked more, Guatemala or Nicaragua. Laguna de Apoyo was one of my favorite spots. And we ended up staying on Ometepe for 12 days because 1. we got stuck because of Semana Santa and 2. it was amazing!

Nicaragua really was my favourite place in Central, I would love to head back just to, well, hang around Laguna De Apoyo and spend a ton more time surfing on the coast! Thinking of dedicating a whole year to surfing come 2016… yeah, Ok, I know it’s a while away… so I’ll be headed back to Nicaragua for sure! 🙂

HI Will. Great info on Nicaragua. I have been researching a backpacking trip there. I am new to backpacking outside of the USA. Do you know what Vaccinations are required for this trip? Is there a way to avoid vaccinations? Any information would be helpful. The CDC only lists recommendations. Best wishes, Mark

Hey buddy, hmmmm… vaccinations; kind of a hard one as I’m not a doctor so shouldn’t really give out medical advise. However – my advise is get a tetnus jab at the very least. I am all vaccinated up, including rabies, you don’t need to go that way for short trips but if you travel full time like me getting seriously sick can be seriously expensive so it’s better to just get the jabs.

Great post! I really love Nicaragua, it was the first country I visited in Central America so it holds a special place in my heart. I’d love to try the volcano boarding one day and explore more of the north since I spend most of my time in the south. I’m glad you enjoyed Nicaragua!

Volcano boarding sounds beyond awesome Will!

My better half traveled to Nicaragua and loved it.

We’re doing Bali next month, for 4 months, then may just do Central America after that. If so Nicaragua is high on our list of places to visit and I’ll keep these spots in mind.

As for the hitching I do hear you; we had do some in Fiji on Vanua Levu, just to get around. We always hitched with locals because even though most folks in Fiji speak English you’re more likely to find rides if you speak Fijian.

Of course, I had to hold on for my life on the back of a lumber truck, as I was on my tippy toes with tons of lumber load shifting and knocking me off balance lol.

Traveling is a trip!

Thanks for the share.

Comments are closed.

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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Nicaragua

• Culture and Etiquette in Nicaragua
• Getting around Nicaragua: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Nicaragua
• Eating and drinking in Nicaragua
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Nicaragua
• Best time to visit Nicaragua

Daily budget Basic US$20/occasional treat US$50 Drink Beer US$1, coffee US$0.50 Food Comida corriente US$3 Hostel/budget hotel US$7/US$16 Travel Managua–Chinandega by bus (130km): 2hr, US$3

Crime and personal safety

Emergencies, information, money and banks, opening hours and holidays.

Nicaragua is the second-poorest country in the Americas, and unemployment is rife. You’ll almost certainly encounter street kids, but you’re far more likely to be greeted with courtesy than aggression, and Nicaragua remains safer than many of its neighbours. You should take care in Managua, however (see Safety in Managua).

Petty theft can be a problem – keep an eye on your bags and pockets, especially on buses. Muggings have occurred in tourist stretches like the beaches of San Juan del Sur and at day-trip destinations around Granada – your accommodation should be able to advise you, and cabs are plentiful. Larger hotels will have safes where you can leave valuables. Wherever you are, women should be wary of going out alone at night, though the chief threat is being harassed by groups of drunken men.

The police in Nicaragua are generally reliable, but watch out for the traffic police ( policia de tránsito ), who are infamous for targeting foreigners and who will take any chance to threaten you with a fine ( multa ) in the hope that you’ll pay them off. Often even ordinary police officers will try stopping you, but if they are not traffic police, they can’t fine you, so stand your ground. To report a crime you must go to the nearest police station. If you need a police report for an insurance claim, the police will ask you to fill out a denuncia – a full report of the incident. If the police station does not have the denuncia forms, ask for a constancia , a simpler form, signed and stamped by the police. This should be sufficient for an insurance claim.

Visitors to Nicaragua should in theory carry their passports on them at all times, though checks are rare and a photocopy is usually acceptable.

Fire 115 (or 911 from mobile phones); Police 118; Red Cross 128; Traffic police 119

Serious medical situations should be attended to at a hospital – most towns and cities have one. In an emergency, if possible, head to Managua. Failing this, find a Red Cross ( Cruz Roja ) post, health centre ( centro de salud ) or pharmacy ( farmacia ) for advice. Pharmacies are generally open daily between 8am and 5pm, and in each town they take turns to stay open all night; in an emergency out of hours ask which pharmacy esta de turno (is on duty).

The national tourist board, INTUR (intur.gob.ni), has information offices throughout the country, with the largest in Managua. Although staff are usually friendly, they generally only speak Spanish and can’t offer much besides colourful leaflets. They may stock Anda Ya! , a free quarterly booklet that’s packed with advertorial, but also has some useful maps and details of travel frequencies. Tourist information centres and most hotels have free maps which come with lots of advertisements but are generally accurate.

hechomagazine.com Snazzy site that’s useful for news on nightlife and culture, with a Managua focus.

nicaliving.com Expat forum with some useful travel tips and news.

nicaraguadispatch.com Respected English-language journalism and editorial on all things Nica.

rightsideguide.com Good for information on the Caribbean coast.

vianica.com General information on sights and travel.

visit-nicaragua.com INTUR’s tourism promotions site, with general information on tourist attractions, cultural activities and amenities.

You’ll find internet cafés in even the smallest towns. Rates – generally C$10–15/hr – often rise in smaller or more remote towns, where connections can also be painfully slow. Wi-fi is increasingly common, even in cheaper accommodation, and is usually free for customers. If you bring a laptop, you might want to buy surge protector , as power surges can happen. As a precaution, unplug anything electrical if the electricity goes off; most surges happen when it comes back on.

For unlimited Wi-Fi on the go whilst travelling Nicaragua, buy a Skyroam Solis , which works in 130+ countries at one flat daily rate, paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. You can connect up to five devices at once. Prices start from as little as €5 a day.

Most towns have post offices (generally Mon–Fri 8am–1pm), although there are few on the Atlantic coast. A postcard to the US is C$15, C$20 to Europe.

Nicaragua’s currency is the córdoba (C$), which is divided into 100 centavos; at the time of writing, the exchange rate was C$24 to US$1, but it devaluates at a set rate each day, so check the current rate at bcn.gob.ni . Notes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 córdobas; coins come in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 córdobas, and 25 and 50 centavos. Get rid of C$500 notes when you can, as they can be difficult to change. Small US dollar bills are accepted for most transactions, as long as they are not marked or torn, and accommodation and tour prices are usually quoted in dollars – although US$100 bills can usually only be changed at a bank.

Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm; many are also open on Saturday mornings until noon. Most will change US dollars, and some change euros, and colones (from Costa Rica) but no other currency. Moneychangers ( coyotes ) operate in the street, usually at the town market, and are generally reliable – though it helps to have an idea of what you expect to get back before approaching them.

Travellers’ cheques are only changed by the Banco de América Central (BAC) – even here you’ll struggle with anything but US-dollar cheques – and they’re probably not worth bothering with. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and Amex are generally accepted in more expensive hotels and restaurants and can also be used to pay for car rental, flights and tours. BAC, Bancentro, Banco ProCredit and Banpro’s ATMs all accept foreign-issue cards, and in most reasonable-sized towns you will find at least one of these, distributing cash in dollars or córdobas. That said, you can’t rely on ATMs alone and, especially out of the major centres, you’ll have little alternative but to carry a decent amount of cash. There are currently no ATMs on Little Corn Island or Solentiname, or in Pearl Lagoon or San Juan de Nicaragua.

Shops and services in Nicaragua observe Sunday closing: on other days you’ll find most places open from 8am to 4pm, though many government-run services, such as tourist information, post offices and immigration, are open from 8am to 1pm. Businesses , museums and sites close for lunch, normally between noon and 2pm, before reopening again until 4 or 5pm. Supermarkets, smaller grocery shops and the small neighbourhood shops called pulperías or ventas generally stay open until 8pm. Bars and restaurants tend to close around 11pm or midnight, except for nightclubs – most of which are in Managua – which stay open until 2am or later. Public holidays see almost everything shut down, so don’t plan on visiting tourist attractions over those dates.

Jan 1 New Year’s Day

Easter week Semana Santa

May 1 Labour Day

May 30 Mother’s Day

July 19 Anniversary of the Revolution

Sept 14 Battle of San Jacinto

Sept 15 Independence Day

Nov 2 All Souls’ Day (Día de los Muertos)

Dec 7 & 8 Inmaculada Concepción

Dec 25 Christmas

There are virtually no coin-operated phones in Nicaragua, and you’re best off using phones in internet cafés or pulperías (small neighbourhood shops), where the shop owner will “hire” you use of his phone. Phone numbers within Nicaragua changed from seven to eight digits a few years back, but you’ll still see some in the old format – just add a “2” (landline) or “8” (mobile) to the number. Calling Nicaragua from abroad, the country code is 505.

If you decide not to bring your own phone, you could buy a mobile phone for as little as US$15; Movistar ( movistar.com ) and Claro ( claro.com.ni ) have pay-as-you-go packages. Both have an outlet in the airport.

As part of the CA-4 agreement , visitors are granted ninety days of travel within Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador. Australian, British, Canadian, US and most EU nationals do not currently require visas to visit Nicaragua. You do, however, need a tourist card , which allows for stays of thirty to ninety days depending on your nationality and costs US$10 (payable upon arrival). The permitted length of your visit will be hand-written on the entry stamp in your passport; while all tourist cards allow for thirty days’ entry, it is only this hand-written number that counts.

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NICARAGUA TRAVEL GUIDE

Nicaragua, set between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, is a Central American nation known for its dramatic terrain of lakes, volcanoes and beaches. Vast Lake Managua and the iconic strato-volcano Momotombo sit north of the capital Managua. To its south is Granada, noted for its Spanish colonial architecture and an archipelago of navigable islets rich in tropical bird life.

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⬇️ REGIONAL GUIDES ⬇️

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⬇️ COUNTRY GUIDE ⬇️

• Capital : Managua
• Currency : Gold cordoba (NIO)
• Area : 130,373 km²
• Population : 6,466 million (2018)
• Language : Spanish, English
• Religion :Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant
• Electricity : 120V/60Hz (US plug)
• 1 May, Labour Day
• 30 May, Mother’s Day
• 19 July, National Liberation Day
• 1 August, Fiesta Day (Santo Domingo Day)
• 14 September, San Jacinto Fight Day
• 15 September, Independence Day
• 2 November, All Souls Day
• 8 December, Immaculate Conception

Also, Semana Santa (Holy Week) from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday.

• Carnaval Alegría por la Vida - (ealry March) The 'Joy for Life' festival is Managua’s version of Carnaval, featuring a lively parade of costumed performers, live music, food, dancing, and the crowning of a festival queen. There’s a different theme each year.
• Palo de Mayo - (late May) Bluefields celebrates fertility with a series of neighbourhood block parties leading to the bright and boisterous carnival on the last Saturday of the month. The closing Tulululu features a midnight romp through the streets, complete with brass band.
• Día de la Revolución - (19 July) You’ll understand why people still love President Daniel Ortega when you see the master work a crowd of 100,000 red-and-black-flag-waving faithful during the Day of the Revolution.
• Noche de Agüizotes - This spooky festival, held on the last Friday in October in Masaya, brings to life characters from horror stories of the colonial period with elaborate costumes. Keep an eye out for the headless priest.
• La Purísima - (first half of December) The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated throughout Nicaragua, with festivities culminating on December 8. In Managua, the celebration is particularly colourful, with massive altars to the Virgin Mary set up along the blocks of Av Bolivar leading to the lake. After dark, the avenue turns into a huge street party with food stands and live music.

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SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

BEST TIME TO VISIT NICARAGUA

Nicaragua has a tropical climate with little seasonal variation in temperature, which ranges between 21-27˚C, and two distinct rainfall seasons: a ‘wet’ season’ (May-October) and a ‘dry’ season (November-April). A dry period called the ‘Canícula’ regularly interrupts the wet season during late July and early August. From July to October the country is subject to increased rainfall intensity and strong winds resulting from its geographic location in the path of Pacific cyclones and Atlantic hurricanes. Of all the countries in Central America, Nicaragua receives the least rain. The vast stretch of land on the east side of Lake Nicaragua receives more rain, as well as the Rio San Juan along the southern border with Costa Rica.

• November to May - High season means dry weather, sunny days, but slightly bigger crowds.
• March to November - It's rainy, but green, and you get the biggest, brawniest waves for Pacific Coast surf safaris.
• September to November - Hotels are cheaper, but the tail end of hurricane season can screw up your plans.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

The best time for outdoor activities in Nicaragua is during the dry season, from November to April, although November can still see a fair amount of rain. Hike to prehistoric petroglyphs on Nicaragua’s Isla de Ometepe, or climb a volcano, such as Volcán Mombacho or the volcanoes near León.

The beaches in Nicaragua are best enjoyed during the dry season from December to April. During this time, the beaches are more accessible and the sea is not too choppy.

The Pacific coast here sees the biggest waves from April to June, thanks to southern swells and offshore winds. The surf is dependable anytime between March and November, though. Again, the rain starts in May, so be prepared.

The windy kitesurfing season in Nicaragua starts in November and sometimes lasts until July, although there is usually less wind from April to June. The best months are from the middle of December until the end of March.

For more details on kite surfing in Nicaragua expand this section!

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NICARAGUA TRAVEL COSTS

Given the fact that Nicaragua is the poorest country in Central America, being one of the least expensive countries to travel in region comes as no great surprise. Even the more expensive tourist areas and upscale districts of Managua are cheap compared to most parts of North America. Nicaragua is becoming a popular alternative for expats moving there from Costa Rica due to the value proposition it offers.

VALUE RANK:

Find discount flights to nicaragua, travel tips for nicaragua.

San Juan del Sur and the nearby beach towns are prime budget destinations. The outdoor attractions are free, or course, and there are plenty of hostels, cheap places to eat, and services that cater to budget travellers. If you need a guide, those are inexpensive, too (just be sure to tip).

GETTING AROUND

Public transport in Nicaragua is very cheap, if not a little chaotic. Bus stations are generally located on the outskirts of towns. There are no timetables or set departure times – buses leave when they’re full. Once the bus is full – and that means PACKED – the driver will set off and a conductor will come down and collect everyone’s fares. Take care of your bags on these 'chicken busses'.

Taxis are plentiful. It’s inexpensive and convenient - you should always agree on a fare before getting into the taxi. In smaller towns there are fewer taxis and more tuk tuks (motorized three wheelers) and triciclos (bicycle rickshaws).

If you're willing to potentially suffer some 'fines' at the hand of underpaid policeman, driving in Nicaragua can be fairly pleasurable as roads are generally straight, flat and in good condition. There are also very few other cars on the road, excluding the major cities. Pedestrians, livestock, bicycles, etc. are all over the place though and care needs to be taken to have a safe driving experience in Nicaragua.

For longer distances, Nicaragua has a reasonably extensive domestic air network . Flights leave Managua to the Corn Islands, Ometepe Island, San Carlos and many remote places in the eastern expanse of the country. Flights are cheap – although luggage requirements can be strict which could affect your final price.

CONNECTIONS

Nicaragua’s border with Honduras can be crossed at Las Manos, El Espino or El Guasaule. From Costa Rica, you can enter by road at Peñas Blancas or by boat via Los Chiles. From Potosí, you can hop on a small boat to El Salvador

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF NICARAGUA

• Isla de Ometepe - Scramble to the summits for views to everywhere and beyond on this lush and lovely island.
• Corn Islands - Swim through crystal-clear Caribbean waters.
• Granada - Savour the colonial delights and spirited streets of this colourful city.
• León - Find out why the revolution wasn’t televised in the bohemian bars of this buzzing city.
• Pacific Coast - Charge the big waves and relax in chill surf towns.
• Reserva Natural Laguna de Apoyo - Swim in clear waters, or laze about in a hammock.
• Río San Juan - Board a riverboat to explore the abundant birdlife of this picturesque river.
• Matagalpa - Discover the heart of the hardworking highlands in this earthy town.

RECOMMENDED ITINERARIES

If you've got limited time in Nicaragua, a trip through the southwest is big on awesome and small on hours in the bus. Kick off your trip in charismatic Granada . Spend three nights taking in the wonderful streetscapes, and visiting the museums and churches. From here, you can head out for day trips or overnighters to the lush crater at Laguna de Apoyo , the lyrical artisan villages known as Pueblos Blancos , or to the Mombacho and Masaya volcanoes and protected wild preserves.

Next head down the highway to San Jorge, from where you'll take the ferry across to the out-of-this world Isla de Ometepe with its twin volcanoes and endless outdoor activities. From there, it's across the isthmus to the Southern Pacific Beaches . Most people begin and end their beach time in the somewhat dated international beach village of San Juan del Sur , but definitely plan on spending a night or two on the surf beaches north and south of here. If you are headed north from here, you won't want to miss a stop off in León .

Managua is the capital of Nicaragua and counts as its own region extending from the airport east of the city all the way to the west coast. This area is made up of a mixture of suburbs, countryside, and lakefront. Managua itself, is in shambles. It is chaotic and broken, poetic and mesmerizing, all at the same time. Travellers are mostly skip the city altogether – instead arranging for a quick airport transfers from nearby Granada. If you do stay a day or two, you will see that big, bad Managua probably isn't that bad! Aside from diving into the whir of a magnificent beehive of honking horns, sprawling markets, garbage and rancor , this low-rise city with improbable trees, remarkable street art and spirited monuments also gives you easy access to nearby lagoons, the nature reserve of Chocoyero-El Brujo , a smattering of fun beaches like Pochomil, and the hot springs at El Trapiche.

THE MASAYA REGION & GRANADA

This geographically rich area boasts a number of Nicaragua’s most vaunted attractions, including the spellbinding colonial town of Granada and the handicraft centre of Masaya. The area is also rich in biodiversity. Wildlife abounds on the flanks of Volcán Mombacho , and Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya is one of the country’s most visibly active craters. Just west of Granada, the Pueblos Blancos stand amid a highland coffee-growing region rich in pre-Columbian traditions. These charming towns are an excellent place to observe some of Nicaragua’s most beautiful craftwork in the making.

Only 45 minutes from Managua, Granada is the oldest colonial town on the American mainland and is a true architectural gem. Granada drips with photogenic elegance, a picture postcard at every turn. It’s no wonder many travellers use the city as a base, spending at least a day bopping along cobblestone roads from church to church in the city centre, then venturing out into the countryside for trips to nearby attractions. Sitting on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, the area not only includes the city itself, but also the Isletas – 300+ islands sitting offshore in the lake, the green forests of Mombacho Volcano and the unique crystal waters of the Laguna de Apoyo. Culturally curious travelers might consider a trip to community-tourism operations in nearby villages such as Nicaragua Libre, or out to Parque Nacional Archipiélago Zapatera, home to one of the most impressive collections of petroglyphs and statues in the country.

SOUTHWESTERN NICARAGUA

Packed with attractions, the southwest offers up some of Nicaragua’s hallmark vistas and adventures. Surfers have been hitting this coastline for years, drawn by perfect, uncrowded waves and chilled-back surfing encampments found to the north and south of San Juan del Sur . No trip to the southwest would be complete without a few days on Isla de Ometepe - the largest freshwater volcanic island in the world.

Download map waypoints for Nicaragua here: KML / GPX

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN NICARAGUA

More location information and points of interest are available in the above map, southern pacific coast.

Southwestern Nicaragua's Pacific beaches offer amazing surf, sand and sun. To get to the Tola beaches – El Astillero down to Playa Gigante – you'll need to pass through Rivas and Tola, then head toward the beach. There is only extremely rough 4WD access on the coast between Veracruz and El Astillero. San Juan del Sur serves as the access point for the beaches between Playa Marsella in the north downward to El Ostional. Up and down the coast around San Juan del Sur, evidence of Nicaragua’s tourism boom is all over the place with high-end boutique resorts, surf camps and yoga retreats springing up. This is an area that is definitely on the rise.

NORTHWESTERN NICARAGUA

This is Nicaragua at its fieriest and most passionate. The regional capital of León is – and will always be – a hotbed of intellectualism and independence. Just out of León, more than a dozen volcanic peaks wait to be climbed (or surfed). This region has some of the best beach accommodations – and best surfing – in the country. And the virgin wetlands of the Reserva Natural Isla Juan Venado are not to be missed. Further afield, you’ll find the biggest mangrove forest in Central America, awe-inspiring beauty at Reserva Natural Volcán Cosigüina and unique windows into everyday Nicaraguan life in the little towns along the way.

As Nicaragua’s other main colonial town, León is less touristic and more authentic than Granada, although that is changing as more travellers are discovering it. It’s the educational centre of the country, home of the major universities and the poet Ruben Dario, as well as the largest cathedral in Central America. Rumour has it that the cathedral is so big because it was the one scheduled for Lima, Peru, but the plans got mixed up on the ship from Spain. Whether that’s true or not is unclear. Leon has a massive cathedral, though. Outside of the city are many volcanoes and hiking opportunities, although heed warning — this area is hot. The beaches of Las Penitas and Poneloya are also only about 20 minutes away.

NORTHERN NICARAGUA

You’ve officially escaped Central America’s backpacker superhighway and arrived in a place where colourful quetzals nest in misty cloud forests, and Nicaragua’s best coffee and tobacco are cultivated with both capitalist zeal and collective spirit. With a little time and commitment you’ll duck into ancient, crumbling cathedrals, get pounded by countless waterfalls, explore recently discovered canyons, and pay tribute to the pirates, colonists, revolutionaries, artists and poets who were inspired by these fertile mountains and mingled with the humble, open-hearted people who’ve lived here for generations. This is the green lung of Nicaragua and the country here is rural and prosperous. The cities of Esteli and Matagalpa lie here, nestled in valleys and surrounded by coffee and tobacco, and you can find cigars as good as the ones in Cuba. This area is very little visited by foreigners, but that may be changing soon as more people discover it.

CARIBBEAN COAST

The two Caribbean regions of RAAN (the North Atlantic Autonomous Region) and RAAS (the South Atlantic Autonomous Region) make up well over 50 percent of Nicaragua and cover the heartland east of the lake to the coastal towns of Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas . This area is lawless, raw and beautiful. The potential here is amazing but it might be a while until it’s fully discovered.

In the meantime, there is also the Corn Islands – two tropical jewels out in the Caribbean Sea about 40 miles from the mainland. These islands, Big Corn and Little Corn, are reminiscent of what the Caribbean was like before the cruise ships came.

SAN CARLOS & RIO SAN JUAN

Along the southern border with Costa Rica, from Lake Nicaragua to the Caribbean Coast is the Rio San Juan, one of Central America’s most important rivers. Navigable from the sea to the lake, this river once provided the quickest way to get from the Atlantic to the Pacific and back again. Nowadays the river lazes in large arcs, surrounded by thick jungle and the ruins of colonial castles. It also provides some of the best tarpon fishing in the world. The steamy riverside town of San Carlos is a key hub for river transportation, and launchpad for a number of highly appealing attractions, including the Archipiélago de Solentiname, several wildlife reserves and the fabulously unlikely Spanish castle at El Castillo.

WHAT TO EAT IN NICARAGUA

Nicaraguan cuisine is primarily corn-based, alongside the ubiquitous rice and beans that are eaten throughout the region. Nicaraguans do not particularly like hot, spicy food and you might find varieties of different tastes for different palates is much less diverse here than in, say, Mexico. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t good eating in Nicaragua!

WHERE TO EAT IN NICARAGUA

Budget eateries – generally comedores or cafetínes , fritangas and market stalls – serve a limited range of filling dishes and set meals from US$2 to US$5. Fritangas are often situated in people’s homes or on the street in front of people’s homes where grilled and fried meats come served alongside rice, beans, and salad.

Gallo pinto (mixed rice and beans) is a staple. On the coasts, you can sample wonderful seafood, while the interior has some of the best grass-fed beef in Central America. Be sure to keep an eye out for local specialties, including nacatamales (banana-leaf packed with cornmeal and other goodness), baho (steamed beef, plantains and yucca), rondón (coconut seafood stew served in the Caribbean) and quesillo (cheese and onions wrapped in a corn tortilla and topped with sour cream).

WHAT TO DRINK IN NICARAGUA

Fresh fruit juices are everywhere. Nicaragua is home to Flor de Caña, which is one of the best rums in the world. A traditional drink in Nicaragua would be a Nica Libre – rum, coke, and lemon (similar to the better known Cuba Libre). Nicaraguan local beer, Toña, and Victoria are both regarded as two of the best beers in Central America.

LGBTQ IN NICARAGUA

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WHERE TO STAY IN NICARAGUA

For your first visit to Nicaragua, it's essential to choose a base that offers a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Here's a breakdown of top areas and accommodations:

Where To Stay In Granada:

Granada is a vibrant colonial city known for its colorful streets, historic architecture, and proximity to natural wonders like Lake Nicaragua and Mombacho Volcano.

Budget Accommodation:  Consider Hostel Oasis for affordable dorm beds and a lively atmosphere.

Mid-range Accommodation:   Hotel Plaza Colón offers comfortable rooms and a central location near the main square.

Luxury Accommodation:  For a luxurious stay, book a room at Hotel Dario , known for its elegant decor and top-notch service.

Best Value Tip:  Look for accommodation deals during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for the best value.

Where To Stay In San Juan del Sur:

San Juan del Sur is a laid-back beach town perfect for surfing, beach hopping, and enjoying the local nightlife.

Budget Accommodation:  Stay at Casa Oro for budget-friendly dorms and a social atmosphere.

Mid-range Accommodation:   Hotel Alcazar offers comfortable rooms with ocean views and a tranquil ambiance.

Luxury Accommodation:  For luxury, consider staying at Morgan's Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge , a stunning eco-lodge set amidst a private reserve.

Best Value Tip:  Visit during the rainy season (May-November) for lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.

Where To Stay In Leon:

Leon is Nicaragua's intellectual and political hub, boasting colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and a lively cultural scene.

Budget Accommodation:   El Jardin Hotel & Restaurant provides budget-friendly rooms with a charming courtyard setting.

Mid-range Accommodation:   Hotel El Convento offers comfortable accommodations within walking distance of Leon's main attractions.

Luxury Accommodation:  Opt for the luxurious amenities and historic charm of Hotel El Convento , located in a beautifully restored colonial building.

Best Value Tip:  Book accommodations in advance for the best deals, especially during festivals and holidays.

By choosing a base in Granada, San Juan del Sur, or Leon, you'll have access to Nicaragua's diverse attractions while enjoying a range of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences. Don't forget to consider the best value seasons for each location to maximize your travel experience.

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• Central America
• 7 Books To Read Before...

7 Books to Read Before Visiting Nicaragua

As interest grows in Nicaragua worldwide, the Central American nation is receiving visitors in ever greater numbers. Here are some of the books you should read before you visit.

Stories and poems/cuentos y poesías: a dual-language book by rubén dario.

RubénDario is the most famous literary figure in Nicaragua and this book , edited by Stanley Applebaum, provides a great introduction to his work. You can read it in the original Spanish, or use the English translation provided on every page.

Jaguar Smile: A Nicaraguan Journey by Salman Rushdie

The controversial British Indian author Salman Rushdie spent some time in Nicaragua during the Contra war, which lasted 1981–88. Rushdie later wrote this account of his time there, which gives a glimpse into what was happening during the violence .

Nicaragua: Living in the Shadow of the Eagle by Thomas W. Walker

One for history buffs, this book takes a close look at life under the Somoza dictatorship and during the Sandinista revolution. It also focuses on the extent to which Nicaraguan history has been influenced by the United States.

The Country Under My Skin: A Memoir of Love and War by Gioconda Belli

Gioconda Belli was born in Nicaragua but studied abroad before returning to join the Sandinista revolution. As a member of a wealthy family, she made an unlikely Sandinista, but nonetheless spent time in the movement. She later wrote this book about her experiences.

Blood of Brothers: Life and War in Nicaragua by Stephen Kinzer

Kinzer moved to Nicaragua in 1976 as a freelance journalist, and ended up staying for years. He went on to open the New York Times bureau in Managua , and wrote this widely praised book about the conflict .

A Naturalist in Nicaragua by Thomas Belt

First published in 1874, this book is part travelogue and part natural history book . Belt takes the reader on a journey through the varied natural environments of Nicaragua and paints an incredible picture of the country.

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The Ladies of Managua by Eleni N. Gage

This work of fiction follows the story of a Nicaraguan migrant who returns home for her grandfather’s funeral to discover a complicated history linked to the revolution.

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Lonely Planet Nicaragua (Travel Guide) Kindle Edition

Lonely Planet Nicaragua is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Kayak through Central America's largest mangrove forest, experience life on a coffee farm, or chill out on idyllic white-sand beaches -all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Nicaragua and begin your journey now!

Inside Lonely Planet Nicaragua :

• Colour maps and images throughout
• Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests
• Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
• Essential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices
• Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
• Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, architecture, land & wildlife, arts, cuisine
• Covers Managua, Masaya, Los Pueblos Blancos, Granada, Southwestern Nicaragua, Leon, Northwestern Nicaragua, Northern Highlands, Caribbean Coast, San Carlos, Islas Solentiname, San Juan and more

The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet Nicaragua, our most comprehensive guide to Nicaragua, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled.

About Lonely Planet: Since 1973, Lonely Planet has become the world's leading travel media company with guidebooks to every destination, an award-winning website, mobile and digital travel products, and a dedicated traveler community. Lonely Planet covers must-see spots but also enables curious travelers to get off beaten paths to understand more of the culture of the places in which they find themselves.

• Print length 320 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publisher Lonely Planet
• Publication date July 1, 2019
• File size 63253 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Not Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07Q4B91T3
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lonely Planet; 5th edition (July 1, 2019)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 1, 2019
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 63253 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• #16 in Nicaragua Travel Guides
• #36 in Polar Regions Travel
• #40 in Singapore Travel

About the authors

Lonely planet.

With over 150 million guidebooks in print, Lonely Planet is a trusted source for any traveler. Since our inception in 1973, we've inspired generations of travelers to discover amazing places and enabled curious travelers to get off the beaten paths to appreciate different cultures and become agents of positive change.

Anna Kaminski

A freelance travel writer for nearly fifteen years, Anna Kaminski has contributed to dozens of travel guidebooks, covering destinations that span six continents. These include the Rough Guide to Chile, the Trailblazer Trans-Siberian Handbook, and Lonely Planet guides to Mexico, Jamaica, Borneo, the Baltic States, Central Asia, Kenya, West Coast Australia, Wales, Canada, Nicaragua, Argentina, Brazil, the Philippines, Vietnam, Greek Islands, Costa Rica, Papua New Guinea and Mongolia, as well as her current home, Spain, and her former homes: UK and Russia.

Most recently, she has penned her first solo book, Eyeball Tacos and Kangaroo Stew, a travelogue/memoir that takes a candid look at her life in travel through the prism of memorable meals.

An incorrigible foodie, there are few things that Anna will not eat, and she is prepared to travel great distances in search of memorable meals. Her favourite pastimes, besides eating, include corresponding with death row inmates, trekking in the mountains and attending Bruce Springsteen gigs. A career in criminal law is her ‘road not taken’.

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Nicaragua Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 11, 2024, nicaragua - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to  arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability . Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to  crime.

Country Summary : Throughout Nicaragua, government and law enforcement officials continue to target individuals and organizations seen as opponents of President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo. U.S. citizens, including dual Nicaraguan-U.S. citizens, have been subject to revocation of Nicaraguan citizenship, reentry bans, expulsion, and other actions. The government and its affiliated groups have been reported to:

• Arbitrarily prevent individuals from entering or departing Nicaragua by air or land for perceived associations.
• Search personal phones, computers, and documents for anti-government content, limit photography of government property, and sometimes seize devices.
• Systematically target individuals for political reasons, regardless of nationality, including former allies, political activists, business representatives, clergy, human rights advocates, civil society leaders, academics, and members of the press.
• Arbitrarily target pro-democracy advocates and their family members.
• Confiscate privately-owned land, residences, financial assets, and personal property without warning or due process.
• Arbitrarily detain, accuse, and charge individuals with terrorism, money laundering, and organized crime offenses for political reasons without respect for fair trial guarantees.

U.S. citizen residents of Nicaragua also report increased scrutiny of alleged political speech.

U.S. citizens arrested in Nicaragua may find themselves subject to prolonged detention without charges or respect of fair trial guarantees. The judicial process lacks transparency, especially in politically motivated arrests and property dispute cases. Political influence and pressure may influence the outcome of legal proceedings.

The Department has determined the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua exists.

Travelers should exercise increased caution and be alert to the risks of crime, including violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery.

Poor infrastructure in parts of the country limits the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility may be subject to restrictions on their movements at any time.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Nicaragua.

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:

• Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly.
• Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and available for a quick departure from the country, if needed.
• Avoid demonstrations and restrict unnecessary travel.
• Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks.
• Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Do not display signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Nicaragua.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
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10 biggest sci-fi books coming out in september 2024.

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10 Great Sci-Fi Books For Beginners

10 underrated sci-fi books that should be on everyone's radar, 10 best sci-fi tv shows of the 1970s.

Sci-fi is a beloved part of speculative fiction, and the contemporary authors taking on the genre have pushed boundaries in their upcoming work. The new sci-fi book releases for September 2024 all demonstrate the diversity and ingenuity that has been a hallmark of science fiction since its earliest examples in the literary canon. Though sci-fi is considered only to include vivid space operas or dystopian futures, there is a broader range of stories than many readers realize. However, this doesn't mean that the latest stories set on distant planets with terrifying technologies aren't part of the newest batch of works.

Great sci-fi reflects the issues and important topics of the real world, whether the narratives are set in the far future or include impossible abilities and technologies.

Science fiction can incorporate many different genres into its story, with books that blend sci-fi and fantasy or even books that blend sci-fi and romance . Most speculative fiction blurs the line between genre types, as this opens the door for more compelling stories. Great sci-fi reflects the issues and important topics of the real world, whether the narratives are set in the far future or include impossible abilities and technologies. This makes the mark of a great new addition to the sci-fi literary canon, fresh, unique, and willing to explore vital subject matter through gripping plots.

The sci-fi genre is for everyone, but for readers who have trouble getting into these stories, there are plenty of great books to start with.

10 The Fallen Fruit

Release date: september 3, 2024.

The author of the upcoming sci-fi novel The Fallen Fruit , Shawntelle Madison, has been publishing science fiction, fantasy, and romance books for many years to great acclaim. Her latest project combines historical fantasy with time travel as the protagonist, Cecily Bridge-Davis, belongs to a family whose members have a habit of being whisked away to the past. When this happens to Cecily, she must cling to her knowledge of history, which won't be difficult as a history professor, and find a way to connect with the new people around her.

Meeting her ancestors across time influences how Cecily views the family curse and shows her the importance of connecting with the past to inform the future.

The Fallen Fruit centers on the experiences of Black Americans throughout U.S. history and doesn't shy away from grappling with harsh truths of discrimination and violence that accompany this. However, the spirit of Cecily's family and her incredible capacity for love and understanding fuels her in her darkest moments. Meeting her ancestors across time influences how Cecily views the family curse and shows her the importance of connecting with the past to inform the future.

9 Edge Of The Known World

Sheri T. Joseph's debut novel, Edge of the Known World , has already cultivated excitement and acclaim by winning several accolades at the 2024 American Fiction Awards. The story follows Alexandra Tashen, whose worldview is shattered when she discovers that she isn't who she thought she was and that her place in her bubble of safety is on thin ice. Alexandra was spirited away from the Federation at a young age and raised in the Allied Nations.

However, there's a chance that a tiny gene marker will give her away and potentially end her life. Not content to sit around waiting, Alexandra risks her life to find her missing father and uncover the secrets of not only her past but also her father's. In the middle of her risky adventure that hinges on her genes going undetected, Alexandra finds herself drawn to two different men who could make or break her situation.

8 Out Of The Drowning Deep

The story kicks off with the murder of a pope and the terrifying prospect of the religious order, the Drowned Sisters, coming to the planet where the crime was committed.

High fantasy mixes with sci-fi in Out of the Drowning Deep , much like how the lines between gods, mortals, and technology blur in A.C. Wise's new novella. The story kicks off with the murder of a pope and the terrifying prospect of the religious order, the Drowned Sisters, coming to the planet where the crime was committed. It comes down to Scribe IV, Quin, and Angel to use their different skill sets and rich histories to solve the case before innocents are punished in place of the real perpetrator.

Full of fantastic queer representation and a broad range of voices within the cast of characters, Out of the Drowning Deep makes each perspective relatable to audiences. Though there's plenty of religious imagery and themes throughout the work, it doesn't alienate its audience. It opens the door for many belief systems to have their place within the story. As much a murder mystery as it is a work of science fiction, Out of the Drowning Deep is richly textured and easy to imagine.

7 The Life Impossible

Author of The Midnight Library , Matt Haig, will likely continue his streak of success with The Life Impossible . His new novel follows the journey of Grace Winters, who leaves behind her quiet life in search of answers about the disappearance of a friend she hasn't heard from in years. She travels to the Mediterranean and finds herself on a gorgeous but curious island, and Haig's beautiful descriptions of the landscape are enough to engage any reader.

It's always refreshing when a book is written from the perspective of an older character, as Grace's age and life experience inform much of her actions. Grace's story has a warm and inviting message inside of it that will leave the reader filled with hope by the end of The Life Impossible . Though the book is lightly science fiction with paranormal events and supernatural powers that lean into magical realism as well, it's a great example of an introductory piece of speculative fiction.

6 Megacosmic Rift

The fourth book in the Torth series, Megacosmic Rift , follows through on the promise to increase the epic action-packed adventure tenfold from the other works. Throughout the series, the characters in Torth have fought against the evil and all-powerful Torth Empire, and the third book, The World of Wreckage , saw Ariock and Thomas deal their biggest blow yet to the Torth. Megacosmic Rift catches up with them in the aftermath of this fight as they try to fan the flames of their growing revolution.

Megacosmic Rift is everything a reader would want out of a space opera, as the fourth installment sees an ancient prophecy finally come to fruition.

Megacosmic Rift is everything a reader would want out of a space opera, as the fourth installment sees an ancient prophecy finally come to fruition. Though it seems all hope is lost for Ariock and Thomas as they drift through space with little semblance of a plan, Abby Goldsmith pens an exciting and unbelievable continuation of their story. If the characters can learn to trust each other, the future might be brighter than they anticipated.

5 Under The Eye Of The Big Bird

Hiromi Kawakami's new novel, Under the Eye of the Big Bird , was translated into English by Asa Yoneda, but none of the grace and fluidity of the original text is lost in the work. Kawakami has written in a variety of genres, but her latest project delves into the world of sci-fi with amazing results. In conversation with the very real climate catastrophes that the world is facing, Under the Eye of the Big Bird takes place during the final age of humanity, when the human race may no longer be able to keep evolving.

With interweaving vignettes that balance discussions of technology and the changing world with lush descriptions of nature and its importance, Under the Eye of the Big Bird is a seminal work from Kawakami. Though Kawakami holds the reader at a distance from the characters with a story that spans generations and keeps its timelines nebulous, it's still impossible not to care for the people in the book. The somewhat fragmented approach to the story allows Kawakami to paint a full picture of her imagined future.

4 Sky Full Of Elephants

Release date: september 10, 2024.

Hilarious, poignant, and sharply original, Sky Full of Elephants is one of the most exciting releases of September.

History is transformed in Sky Full of Elephants , Cebo Campbell's debut novel that comes on the heels of great acclaim in the world of literary awards. However, as his first full-length novel, Campbell has knocked it out of the park once again, looking critically at race, class, and gender in an extreme example of a post-racial world. In Sky Full of Elephants , all the white people in the world disappear, and the story follows the experiences of the Black American, Charlie Brunton.

From there, he reconnects with his teenage daughter, Sidney, who had been raised by her white mother and knows little about Charlie or his world. Both learning about each other and the new way the world works, Charlie and Sidney dig into their roots and the legacy of Blackness in the U.S. while trying to rebuild their bond. Hilarious, poignant, and sharply original, Sky Full of Elephants is one of the most exciting releases of September.

3 This World Is Not Yours

This World Is Not Yours is a book that perfectly blends sci-fi and horror by Kemi Ashing-Giwa and looks at the contemporary dynamics of LGBTQ+ relationships amid a terrifying survival situation. The protagonist, Amara, is among a group of colonizing humans on an alien planet with her fiancée Vinh and old friend, Jesse. The dynamic between the three people comes into play throughout the story, and the character relationships are just as compelling as the secrets of the planet.

Touching on themes of sexuality, colonialism, environmentalism, and self-preservation, This World Is Not Yours tackles a lot in its fast-paced novella format. Much of the work is reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's best books , as the iconic sci-fi writer explored similar story motifs. The descriptions of the foreign planet and the human's unstable place on it are gorgeously written, and the reader never loses their sense of place while reading the book.

2 The Escher Man

Release date: september 17, 2024.

The Escher Man is T.R. Napper's latest sci-fi-fi work, and it includes just as much action and gore as any of his other work. The story chronicles the fragmented memory and life of Endel "Endgame" Ebbinghaus, a man who makes his living as a violent enforcer for a cartel but remembers a different past with a loving family. However, in the world of The Escher Man , memories can't be trusted, and Endel can't be certain whose side he's really on.

Endel's fear of being trapped inside his own mind is played out brilliantly on the page.

Incorporating imagery and themes of cyberpunk and plenty of violence, The Escher Man is a thriller and a mind game for the characters and reader rolled into one. Reading The Escher Man transports the audience into an unknown world, but the feelings and anxieties of Endel, a man trying to get back to his real life, will connect with any reader. Endel's fear of being trapped inside his own mind is played out brilliantly on the page.

Sci-fi books like Dune or 1984 have remained memorable and highly praised for years, but there are some novels that don't get enough attention.

Release Date: September 24, 2024

Michael Mammay's latest installment in the Planetside series, Darkside , returns to the world and story of Colonel Carl Butler as he's wrenched from retirement for a noble cause. The novel sees Butler back at his old tricks, not for some interplanetary government, but because a child's father has gone missing. In the fast-paced world of the Planetside series, anyone could be whisked away to a far corner of the galaxy, but Butler's just the man to track them down.

Darkside is one of the many incredible sci-fi books that are more fiction than science , but this doesn't mean that Butler's story isn't just as action-packed. Butler travels to the moon Taug, which is home to many mining operations, and is joined by his familiar sidekick, Mac. Politics and scandals erupt around Butler and Mac, but they remain fiercely dedicated to finding the man they set out to rescue, even if the corrupt corporations on Taug have other plans for them. With elements of space archeology, the novel sees Butler explore a new part of the universe.