A New Nicaragua
The culture of Nicarauga is changing as the entire country is experiencing a new kind of revolution. Unlike the violent past, the present embodies peaceful prosperity, hope, and rebuilding, dramatically changing the present culture of Nicaragua. The future is full of promise and bright hope. Eco tourism is already taking a firm hold on the country's budding tourism industry, and an awareness of preserving the rich natural resources and traditions of Nicaragua is ever-present in all levels of society. Even the Nicaraguan government is working very diligently to put the violent revolutionary past behind them by supporting tourism and infrastructure develoment. Roads, bridges, and transportation are being improved as we speak and it just gets better and better for the visitor to this country.
What's Great About the Culture of Nicarauga?
First there are natural resources. They have a big impact on any culture and the same is true of Nicagua. One of the biggest attractions is the Masaya Volcano. It's accessible by car, which makes it unusual in the world. There are very few volcanos on which visitors can drive their car, particularly right to the rim. Not only can tourists visit this great volcano, but also 19 live volcanos scattered throughout the country. Visit our volcano page for more details.
Lake Nicaragua is a wonderland of natural resources and exciting activities as well. It's over three thousand square miles with about 350 islands dotting its waters. Some islands are big enough to offer resort lodging, with Ometepe standing tall as the laragest island on the Lake. Visitors to Nicaragua can rent kayaks and explore the waters and islands, or take a boat to some of the islands. Learn more on our Lake Nicaragua page.
How's the Food?
Nicaragua is blessed with rich soil and a diverse geography, which affect not only the culture of Nicagua but also the cusine. Agriculture is strong here, and produce is bound to be fresh wherever you go, in any region. Fish dishes are part of the daily diet, and tostones play a large role too. Tostones are fried plaintain disks. You'll also find ubiquitous red beans and rice, pork, yuca and corn tamales everywhere you go. There's also a strong sugar industry in Nicaragua, which may explain the affinity for sweets held by Nicaraguans as a whole. Even sauces can lean towards the sweet side. Traditional desserts are scrumptiously sweet and decadent, so make sure and treat yourself at least once while you're traveling here. Simply put, the food is delicious!
What are the Major Cities?
The major cities of Nicaragua are Leon and Granada, and Managua. Visit Granada for viewing and admiring Spanish architecture, and learn about Nicaragua's colonial past as well as the culture of Nicaragua. Chances are, you'll be flying in to Managua anyway. Most cheap flights out of New York go to Managua. Other cities to explore include San Juan del Sur and Ometepe. Omoetepe is the hourglass-shaped island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua and holds 35,000 inhabitants.
Things to do in Nicaragua
- bird watching (over 80 species!)
- volcano trekking
- city walks
- visit the islands in Lake Nicaragua
- chill out at a resort
- explore the artists' colony of Solentiname and buy crafts
- learn about native Indian culture and history
- play on the beach
- witness religious festivals in the cities, if you're in town at the right time
- visit a coffee plantation
- and so much more!