Nicaragua Overview

Now that it has opened its doors to the world, Tourism in Nicaragua is booming. And with dazzling natural attractions like volcanoes, sparkling lakes, magical lagoons, an abundance of wildlife and archaeological treasures, it's easy to see why. Many tourists come expressly to hike the jungles, float the rivers and mingle with the welcoming locals. If you enjoy the arts, visit Nicaragua's National Museum to see paintings, ceramics and fossilized human footprints made over 6000 years ago! The adventurous won't want to miss the Canopy tour, flying on cables through the rainforest's trees on the side of Mombacho Volacano. There's much to do in this once war-torn country that is now a bevy of cultural charm.
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Travel Facts

Population
5,774,000

Capital
Managua

Currency
Gold Córdobas

Time Zone
Same as U.S. Central Standard Time

Climate
The rainy season in Nicaragua runs from May to November. The Rancho Santana and the Pacific Coast receive far less rain than the Caribbean region, however, which is wet most of the year. From December through April the weather is dry with the warmest temperatures occurring in March, April and May, averaging in the low- to mid-90s (F). The rest of the year temperatures are moderate and perfect for enjoying the sights.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Nicaragua's cities are waiting to be explored and enjoyed. In historic Granada, tourists take scenic walks and tour the small islands created by the last eruption of Mombacho Volcano. There are also movie theaters in all the major shopping centers and occasionally a foreign embassy will even sponsor a local film festival. Both national and international artists present their shows, concerts, exhibitions, and cultural performances at The Rubén Dario National Theatre, one of the most modern theaters in all of Central America. And in Managua you'll find many bars, nightclubs, casinos, theaters, cinemas and plenty of other things to do in the evenings.

Restaurant and Cuisine Listings

El Avión, Manuel Antonio
If you enjoy unique surroundings, put dining at El Avión on your list of things to do. Set on the edge of Manuel Antonio's hillside, the restaurant is housed under the starboard wing of a retired army transport plane that was actually shot down by the Sandinista army. Today, you can enjoy well-prepared seafood and steaks at this tourist favorite.

Cocin Arte, León
Cocin Arte is a popular vegetarian restaurant where the service is sometimes slow but the food is always spectacular and worth the wait. Save room for organic chocolates and coffee.

Charly`s Bar & Restaurant, Granada
Charly's is famous for German meals as well as for its grilled specialties. The German sausages and mixed brochettes are local favorites. The atmosphere is unique, mixing Nicaraguan decoration with authentic German objects. Don't leave without trying the home made cheesecake.

Culture & Heritage

Nicaraguans are a proud of their rich heritage, from the geology and history of their land to their colonial architecture, moving poetry and folk dances all derived from a mixture of Hispanic and Native American influences. Nicaraguans are warm and enjoy interacting with tourists. You'll see first hand how they face their day-to-day struggles with vitality and an enviable ability to enjoy life. Settled as a colony of Spain in the sixteenth century, Nicaragua became a part of the Mexican Empire and then gained its independence as a part of the United Provinces of Central America in 1821 before finally became an independent republic in 1838.

Famous Nicaraguans – Spotlight on Bianca Jagger

Although there are many famous revolutionists in Nicaragua, perhaps no Nicaraguan's name is more recognizable than Bianca Jagger's. The ex-wife of Mick Jagger from the Rolling Stones, she was born Bianca Perez Morena De Macias. Now an activist for social and environmental issues, she's a sometimes spokesperson for Amnesty International.