Nicaragua

Key facts

• Region: Central America — Sovereign states
• Capital: Managua
• Currency: Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO)
• Languages: Spanish
• Main airport: MGA — Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, serving Managua
• Best time to visit: December to April, the dry season; the rains run May to November and are heaviest September to October

Overview

Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America and among the least expensive to travel in the region, with colonial cities, two large lakes and a chain of volcanoes. It has become a common destination for surfers, budget travellers and long-stay visitors, particularly on the Pacific coast. Political conditions have at times affected tourism, so travellers should check current advisories before planning.

Airports

Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua is the country's main gateway and handles nearly all long-haul traffic. Corn Island Airport (RNI) serves Great Corn Island on the Caribbean coast, reached by domestic flight from Managua. There is no significant domestic airline network beyond those routes, and most travel between cities is by road.

Main cities

Granada is the best-preserved colonial city, on the shore of Lake Nicaragua and close to Mombacho volcano. León is the other historic city, known for its cathedral and revolutionary history, and a base for nearby beaches and volcanoes. Managua is the capital and transport hub but sees few tourists. San Juan del Sur is the main Pacific surf and beach town.

Places to go

Ometepe Island, formed by two volcanoes in Lake Nicaragua, is one of the country's signature destinations. The Masaya Volcano near Granada has a drive-up crater that has shown a lava lake at times. Somoto Canyon in the north is a popular hiking and swimming spot. The Corn Islands, Big Corn and Little Corn, offer Caribbean beaches and diving. The Granada Islets and the Apoyo Lagoon crater are easy trips from Granada. The Río San Juan and the Solentiname Islands in the south are more remote and reached by boat.

Getting there

Cheapest cached round-trip fare into Nicaragua, refreshed every 6 hours:

Where to stay

Practical information

Frequently asked