Central America is a paradise for the active traveler. The region offers adventures such as world-class surfing in El Salvador, diving at the Bay Islands of Honduras and jungle treks in Costa Rica. However, for the ultimate in volcano hiking Nicaragua is the place to be.
The largest country in Central America, Nicaragua is also one of the most interesting to visit. Decades of exploitation by an oppressive regime and then a revolution and drawn-out civil war have left the country poor and underdeveloped. However, Nicaraguans, or Nicas as they call themselves, are incredibly friendly and welcoming. They understand how tourism can help their economy and are trying to find ways to develop this sector in a sustainable way.
Travelers who prefer staying off the beaten track choose the largest country in Central America rather than its southern neighbor, Costa Rica. Costa Rica has long been the destination of choice for ecotourism but it has become quite expensive. In addition, in the more touristy areas there isn't much left of the local character. Its neighbor to the north not only offers the same level of natural beauty at a fraction of the cost but also has unique attractions such as Lake Nicaragua and the Corn Islands.
Central America sees many earthquakes and has plenty of volcanoes, many of which are still active. This is because the isthmus lies where a number of tectonic plates come together. The Nicaraguan landscape features a large number of volcanoes, both active and dormant, and the country is a pioneer in the extreme sport known as volcano-boarding.
The two most accessible volcanoes are Masaya and Mombacho. The former is active while the latter is dormant. Mombacho lies just outside the colonial city of Granada while Masaya is a short bus ride away, so it makes sense to base yourself in Granada for these hikes. Granada is a beautiful place with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Two other volcanoes that are easy to climb are Madera and its twin Concepcion. Together they form Ometepe Island, a stunning piece of paradise in Lake Nicaragua. Allow at least three days on the island so that you can explore the beaches and coffee plantations and have time to climb each volcano. The hikes are strenuous but you'll be rewarded with stunning views and fascinating petroglyphs.
The best time to visit is during the winter months, which are the dry season in the tropical country. The weather is still hot but not as uncomfortable as in the rainy summer months. You'll need good hiking boots, insect repellent, plenty of water and sunscreen. Hikes can be arduous so it helps to be reasonably fit too.
It's best to do your hike in the company of a knowledgeable guide. There are many travel agencies in Granada that can arrange a guided tour of some of the region's volcanoes. Accommodation establishments on Ometepe Island will also be able to offer you the services of a reputable guide. It will help if you can speak a little Spanish but some guides are able to speak some English too.
The largest country in Central America, Nicaragua is also one of the most interesting to visit. Decades of exploitation by an oppressive regime and then a revolution and drawn-out civil war have left the country poor and underdeveloped. However, Nicaraguans, or Nicas as they call themselves, are incredibly friendly and welcoming. They understand how tourism can help their economy and are trying to find ways to develop this sector in a sustainable way.
Travelers who prefer staying off the beaten track choose the largest country in Central America rather than its southern neighbor, Costa Rica. Costa Rica has long been the destination of choice for ecotourism but it has become quite expensive. In addition, in the more touristy areas there isn't much left of the local character. Its neighbor to the north not only offers the same level of natural beauty at a fraction of the cost but also has unique attractions such as Lake Nicaragua and the Corn Islands.
Central America sees many earthquakes and has plenty of volcanoes, many of which are still active. This is because the isthmus lies where a number of tectonic plates come together. The Nicaraguan landscape features a large number of volcanoes, both active and dormant, and the country is a pioneer in the extreme sport known as volcano-boarding.
The two most accessible volcanoes are Masaya and Mombacho. The former is active while the latter is dormant. Mombacho lies just outside the colonial city of Granada while Masaya is a short bus ride away, so it makes sense to base yourself in Granada for these hikes. Granada is a beautiful place with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Two other volcanoes that are easy to climb are Madera and its twin Concepcion. Together they form Ometepe Island, a stunning piece of paradise in Lake Nicaragua. Allow at least three days on the island so that you can explore the beaches and coffee plantations and have time to climb each volcano. The hikes are strenuous but you'll be rewarded with stunning views and fascinating petroglyphs.
The best time to visit is during the winter months, which are the dry season in the tropical country. The weather is still hot but not as uncomfortable as in the rainy summer months. You'll need good hiking boots, insect repellent, plenty of water and sunscreen. Hikes can be arduous so it helps to be reasonably fit too.
It's best to do your hike in the company of a knowledgeable guide. There are many travel agencies in Granada that can arrange a guided tour of some of the region's volcanoes. Accommodation establishments on Ometepe Island will also be able to offer you the services of a reputable guide. It will help if you can speak a little Spanish but some guides are able to speak some English too.
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