places to visit in catarina nicaragua

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Catarina Viewpoint

Wonderful view of apoyo lagoon and the great lake of nicaragua.

Nicaragua has tourist destinations that make our country be visited by many tourists every year. One of them is the Mirador de Catarina or Catarina Viewpoint , in the municipality of Catarina, department of Masaya . Catarina belongs to Los Pueblos Blancos tourist corridor.

With an impressive view due to its location in one of the highest hills of the municipality, from the viewpoint it is possible to admire the Apoyo Lagoon, the Charco de Tisma, the Great Lake of Nicaragua, the city of Granada, the Mombacho Volcano , and the Sierra of Amerrisque in Chontales .

Dating from 1817, the Church of Catarina is another very popular attraction, with a spectacular colonial style and painted murals on its ceiling, which enhance its interior, with images of the Virgin, Risen Christ, Holy Spirit, Holy Trinity and the Holy Family .

Apoyo Lagoon, located between the departments of Masaya and Granada, formed in the crater of an extinct volcano, with an estimated depth of 200 meters. Declared a Natural Reserve in 1991, it is the largest lagoon in Nicaragua . Because of its volcanic origin, when the water reaches its maximum level, the gases that the volcano still expels in certain places generate natural thermal springs. Its name is related to the taste of its waters (Alt-poyec: brackish water). It houses a large number of animal and plant species, some of them endemic, conserving a great part of its natural wealth. Diving, swimming, surfing with sail, and navigation without motor, are some of the activities that are offered to tourists, sports lovers, and families. In addition, skydiving, hiking and rappel are practiced from its slopes. Some hotels available here are: San Simián, The Monkey Hut, Apoyo Resort, Estación Biológica, Pájaro Azul Hostel, Paraiso Hostel, Selva Azul Hotel, Laguna Beach Club, Pacaya Lodge and Spa.

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Top Things to Do in Catarina, Nicaragua

Places to visit in catarina, explore popular experiences, nature and wildlife tours.

Other Top Attractions around Catarina

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• Private Full Day Granada city +lake +handicraft market +catarina
• Private 1-Day Tour To Nicaragua From Riu Guanacaste/Riu Palace
• Full-day trip to Nicaragua
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THE BEST Things to Do in Catarina

Things to do in catarina, explore popular experiences, nature and wildlife tours.

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10 Things to Do in Catarina Lookout, Masaya Nicaragua

•  Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve
•  Catarina Lookout
•  El Castillo de la Inmaculada Concepcion
•  El Corazon de Maria Church
•  El Fortin
•  El Museo de la Ceramica
•  El Museo de la Ciudad
•  El Museo de la Cultura Popular
•  El Museo de la Historia Natural
•  El Museo de la Musica
•  El Museo de la Revolucion
•  El Museo de la Tradicion
•  Masaya Craft Market
•  Masaya Volcano National Park
•  San Francisco Convent
•  San Jeronimo Church
•  San Juan de Oriente

• You are here:
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• Masaya »

Catarina Nicaragua

PLACES OF INTEREST 

• Niquinohomo
• Masaya volcano Nature Reserve
• Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve
• San Juan de Oriente

Activities and Services

Restaurants

Catarina is a small and beautiful city located very close to the great Masaya, only 6 kilometers and 40 kilometers from the capital. Catarina belongs to the so-called "White Villages"

Catarina is known for being the population to which belongs the famous Laguna de Apoyo, one of the natural wonders of the country. To get to know it, you will have to go to the Mirador de Catarina, where you can see some amazing views over the lagoon.

Catarina Lookout

In Catarina lookout there are places to relax and enjoy the spectacular views over the lagoon,

it is also possible to go hiking or horseback riding around the lagoon, listen to live music or buy handicrafts.

The cost of admission to the mirador is 2C $ for national pedestrians, 1 $ for foreign pedestrians, 10C $ for motorcycles, 40C $ for minibuses, 100 C $ for national buses and 150C $ for international buses.

The urban center is fast to know and its main interest are the many craft shops that are in the area.

The small workshops of the artisans who work on pottery, wood and bamboo as well as the colorful flowers and plants of the almost 70 nurseries that exist in the municipality are part of the life of this small town, full of life, tradition , Smell and color.

Catarina and its viewpoint are one of the most visited destinations in the country.

Due to the growing tourism boom in the last decades, the presence of bars, restaurants and dining rooms that offer typical Nicaraguan food of great quality and at good prices have increased in the territory.

It is also an interesting place to stay and from there to visit nearby.

The fiestas of Catarina

The fiestas of Catarina, in the Masaya style, are known in the area and appreciated by Nicaraguans who move from other towns to celebrate. Catarina has two important holidays.

Around the 30th of December, the celebrations are celebrated in honor of San Silvestre, and are extended until the beginning of January.

The other festival of the town is November 24 in honor of Santa Catalina.

HOW TO GET CATARINA?

To reach Catherine can be done in different ways. From Masaya : by the road that leaves the east by the roundabout Las Flores; By the road Granada -Nandaime and from the road that comes from Masatepe by the west.

BEST PLACE IN NICARAGUA

• San Juan del Sur
• Corn Island
• Little Corn Island

Trip Original

Things to do in Catarina

(“What to do in Catarina, our website TripOriginal has more than 10 attractions ✅ and best things to do in Catarina.”)

(“If you want to go on a day excursion or Day Trip from Catarina , ➡️ go here  Fast Go “)

(“🔽 With our website TripOriginal and our partner GetYourGuide, we’ve compiled a list of the finest and fun things to do in Catarina 🔽”)

(“Top attractions to do in Catarina – Nicaragua”)

(“day trips from catarina”), (“things to do in catarina with kids”), (“things to do in catarina for couple”), (“the activities to do in catarina that we suggest the most”), (“1. full-day tour: masaya volcano, art market and white villages”).

Masaya is without doubt one of the smallest but most populated departments in the nation. The picturesque, small cities of its territory function a number of points of interest akin to cultural manifestations, a robust indigenous heritage, and plenty of pure locations. The Masaya Volcano National Park and the Masaya Lagoon are two main pure points of interest.

The volcano is fashioned by three craters, two of them are extinct and the opposite one stays energetic, always spewing smoke. An enormous territory, which nonetheless preserves its wildlife, surrounds this volcano. You will go to the Masaya Volcano which is an energetic smoking crater and dormant crater. You may even go to the Park Museum.

After your superb expertise at Masaya Volcano, you will notice and stroll by way of Mercado de Artesanía, the artwork market in Masaya the place yow will discover ceramics and woodcrafts, hammocks, jewellery, cigars, leather-based work, and way more. Then you drive to Catarina, a serene city of nurseries and flowers. Here you may take pleasure in an incredible panoramic view of Apoyo Crater Lake. In the south of Catarina, you’ll pottery and ceramics at San Juan de Oriente.

(“2. Managua: 3-Day Granada, Masaya, and Leon Tour”)

Stop by the Masaya Volcano National Park earlier than studying concerning the historical past and tradition of locals 500 years in the past by visiting the park’s museum. Throughout the day you can even hike to the opposite 3 extinct craters and see the gorgeous panorama from the park, from the place you may view Lake Managua and town.

Later, cross by Granada islets and meet a cute household of monkeys, earlier than getting off the boat to be taught concerning the San Palo Fortress which was constructed greater than 250 years in the past. You will then take a pleasant strolling tour by way of the colonial metropolis of Granada as your information narrates the historical past of town, with a go to to the chocolate museum included. Finally, benefit from the good breeze on the lookout of Catarina Hill the place you’ll have the choice to take pleasure in just a little mountaineering.

Stop on the Ruins of Leon Viejo to find out about how Nicaragua was first colonized by the Spanish, earlier than taking footage from Momotombo Volcano. Following that, cease at Leon the place you’ll Learn concerning the historical past, tradition, and the good poet Ruben Dario, earlier than taking a stroll on prime of the roof of the cathedral.

On your remaining day you may cease on the Masaya Crafts Market the place you may store for souvenirs to take residence. You’ll then cease at Masaya to go to town and the principle church, which sits in its central park. Following that, cease by the Coyotepe Fortress, the place you’ll find out how this constructing was used as a political jail in the 80s.

You will later cease at Laguna de Apoyo to loosen up on the shore of the lagoon, earlier than encountering the Masaya Volcano in the night. This remaining cease will enable you to take gorgeous footage with the orange of the lava in the background, and also will enable you to see the volcano’s magma.

(“”)

(“Which of Catarina’ top attractions should you visit ?”)

(“In Catarina Nicaragua, you must visit the following attractions :”)

(“This week in Catarina, what are the best things to do ?”)

(“In Catarina – Nicaragua, the following are the top things to do :”)

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My 15 Favorite Things to Do in Nicaragua

Nicaragua used to be a secret. It was the land of backpackers and intrepid travelers ignored by tourists and expats due to the country’s violent past.

But over the years, travelers seeking a fun, cheap, and adventurous destination came here as an alternative to “touristy” Costa Rica and Panama once they realized the country was much safer than it used to be and that Contras weren’t still roaming the jungles.

Known as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” Nicaragua is a popular destination spot for families, retirees, and backpackers, offering cheap beer, incredible hiking (there are 19 volcanoes here), plentiful surfing, and an affordable cost of living. After visiting years ago, I completely understood the appeal. Nicaragua is filled with amazing natural beauty and extremely warm people. I went in with high expectations and was not disappointed. In fact, I even extended my visit!

To help you make the most of your visit, here’s my list of the best things to do in Nicaragua:  

1. Admire Granada

While you’re in town, be sure to eat at one of the kiosks in the town square serving vigorón , a delicious local pork and cabbage dish.

Where to Stay in Granada : De Boca en Boca – A laid-back hostel with a cool atmosphere. There’s a full kitchen, a bar on-site, and they offer free Wi-Fi and free breakfast too.  

2. Surf in San Juan del Sur

Where to Stay in San Juan del Sur : Hola Ola Hostel – This lively social hostel is known for its fun parties and chill days by the on-site pool. The staff organize all kinds of events, like surf trips and lessons, and there’s a tasty breakfast available for just $2 USD.  

3. Visit Ometepe Island

Where to Stay on Ometepe Island : Hostel Life is Good – The staff and owner of this hostel go above and beyond to ensure you have a great stay. There’s a bar and restaurant on site and they can help you book whatever tours and activities you need!  

4. Visit “New” León

The city makes a great base for nearby trips to volcanoes and was one of the highlights of my trip. 

Where to Stay in León : Poco a Poco Hostel – A super chill but super social hostel where the staff go above and beyond to ensure you have a great time.

5. Visit “Old” León

6. Go Volcano Boarding

The most popular slope is on Cerro Negro, a 728-meter-high volcano that is still active (it hasn’t erupted since 1999). Prices start at $35 USD per person.& nbsp;

7. Escape to the Corn Islands

There are two islands: Little Corn and Big Corn. Little Corn is the quieter, more backpacker-oriented island with cheaper guesthouses and fewer resorts. Big Corn is more developed with larger resorts and more restaurants, and it’s more expensive. 

Round-trip flights from Managua to Big Corn Island cost around $300 USD. You can then catch a boat to Little Corn Island for around $10 USD each way.  

8. Hike Miraflores

Located in Esteli in northern Nicaragua, Reserva Natural Miraflor was yet another highlight of my trip. This is a stunning cloud forest with rivers and waterfalls, offering the chances for day-hikes and multi-day treks (the multiday trips enable you to stay with local host families in small communities). The one-day trek that I did ran from 7am-4pm and cost around $20 USD 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.

9. Visit the Stone Man

10. Skip Managua

I found there really wasn’t a lot to see or do here so I’d skip a visit. There are many more enjoyable places to spend your trip!  

11. Hike the Volcanoes

If you’re in León, Cerro Negro is well-known for “volcano surfing” and is an easy hike. Masaya Volcano, located just south of Managua, is the most active volcano in Nicaragua (you can actually see the lava bubbling).

If you want a challenge, try San Cristobal, Nicaragua’s highest volcano at 1,745 meters (5,725 feet). 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 too).  

12. Binge on Gallo Pinto

13. Do a Homestay/Learn Spanish

Want to stay longer? Take part in a homestay. This is where you stay with a local family for a fee and immerse yourself in the language and daily life. There are a lot of opportunities to stay longer, volunteer, learn Spanish, and farm. If this interests you, hostels and tourist offices in any big city can help organize this for you. Esteli, Ometepe, and León are popular destinations for this.  

14. Visit Apoyo Lagoon

15. Chill Out

Nicaragua is a great country to just hang out in. Sit on a beach with a good book, relax in the jungle, stay on the farm, surf, or swing in a hammock. The pace of life here is slow and relaxed, so slow yourself down and enjoy some lazy, wonderful days.

Nicaragua is a nature lover’s dream: volcanoes, rainforests, mangrove forests, and beaches abound. Add in some adventurous activities, friendly locals, and cheap prices, and you’ll see why everyone raves about this country.

There is so much to see and do in the country that you’re going to have an action-packed trip no matter where you go or how long you stay there. It’s one of the best countries in the world and should not be missed! I can’t speak highly of it enough!

Book Your Trip to Nicaragua: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay in the country:

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

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect 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. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Nicaragua? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Nicaragua for even more tips on how to plan your visit!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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First-timer’s guide to Nicaragua

Oct 10, 2023 • 6 min read

Nicaragua has retained its off-the-beaten-path feel ©adamdodd/Getty Images

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The largest country in Central America - dubbed the land of lakes and volcanoes -  Nicaragua has retained its off-the-beaten-path feel, and much of it has been preserved rather than developed.

Whether you want to feast on gourmet local produce, taste top-notch rum, wake up and smell the organic coffee surrounded by Spanish-colonial architecture, lounge on idyllic white-sand beaches beneath swaying palms, clamber over – and surf down – active volcanoes, ride some big waves or go monkey-spotting in lush forests, Nicaragua has something for you.

When should I go to Nicaragua?

Subtropical Nicaragua is a year-round destination with two distinct seasons: hot and dry from November to May and hot and wet from June to October, aka the "green season". The rains usually come in short, sharp bursts in the late afternoon, with plenty of sunshine the rest of the time; September and October are the wettest months.

Nicaragua is at its most popular (and most expensive) over Christmas, New Year and Easter, when towns and cities hold colorful religious festivals and Nicaraguans flock to the beaches.

Is it easy to get to and around Nicaragua?

Nicaragua’s international airport is Augusto C. Sandino in Managua , and there are direct flights from Miami and Fort Lauderdale in the US , Mexico City and Panama City , and plenty of connecting flights.

If you’re traveling around Central America by bus, Transnica covers Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua, while Transporte del Sol operates in Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

You can also get around the country on local buses, whether "chicken buses" – reinvented North American school buses that rattle along at breakneck speed – or good-value long-distance coaches that are reasonably comfortable.

La Costeña offers daily flights from Managua to Great Corn Island and ferries cross Lake Nicaragua to Isla de Ometepe and the Solentiname archipelago. Explore the historic centers of Granada and León on foot, but taxis are cheap and plentiful if you want to go further afield.

How long do I need in Nicaragua?

In a week, most visitors skip Managua and head straight to colonial-era Granada , on the shores of Lake Nicaragua. After you’ve explored the city, its lakes and volcanoes, take a puddle jumper to the Corn Islands, bus it to the beaches of San Juan del Sur, chill on the volcanic isle of Ometepe, or surf down an active volcano in Léon.

In two or three weeks, you could cover all the above and add on a visit to the lush Solentiname islands and their primitivist artists, or take a jungle journey along the Río San Juan , the watery frontier with Costa Rica. And with more time, you could brush up your Spanish at one of the many wallet-friendly schools.

Top things to do in Nicaragua

1. peer into a volcanic crater in granada.

Granada is one of Central America’s oldest and loveliest cities, all postcard-pretty plazas, ornate churches and cobbled streets lined with rainbow-coloured houses, where locals drag their rocking chairs onto the streets to catch up with their neighbors.

But you’re never far from nature. Spend an evening peering into Masaya Volcano’s crater as luminous orange molten lava bubbles away below you, discover its string of volcanic isletas  (islets) by kayak, hike through – or zipline above – Mombacho Volcano’s cloud forest, cool off in the crater lake of Laguna de Apoyo, and visit the skilled artisans of Masaya and the Pueblos Blancos .

2. Ride the Pacific rollers

Stellar waves and wild beaches line Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, and it’s long been a haunt of surfers in the know . To the south, laid-back San Juan del Sur is surf-and-party central – the Sunday Funday Pool Crawl is a backpacker legend. But the surfing is better out of town – Playa Maderas , 20 minutes north, has the best beach break, while mellow Playa Remanso, 15 minutes south, is perfect for novices.

In Popoyo, around 75km (47 miles) to the north, the surf breaks have the most consistent swells for wave riders of all levels, with rentals and surf schools aplenty.

3. Surf down an active volcano

Adrenaline junkies can climb up and whizz back down the black ash slopes of still-rumbling Cerro Negro volcano on a specially designed board, hitting speeds of up to 100kph (60mph).

Nicaragua’s youngest volcano is a short hop from Léon , the northern colonial-era capital that’s home to the largest cathedral in Central America.

Léon has the buzzy feel of a university city, with eclectic museums including the Museo Histórico de la Revolución , and art, from the contemporary Museo de Arte Fundación Ortiz-Gurdián to street murals.

4. Kick back in the Caribbean

Around 70km (43 miles) off Nicaragua’s east coast, the pocket-sized Corn Islands tick all the Caribbean boxes – palm-fringed, icing-sugar sand beaches, gin-clear water and a chilled-out vibe – without the hefty price tag.

Car-free Little Corn is a short flight from Managua followed by a bouncy 40-minute boat ride from Great Corn. Snorkel and scuba the pristine reefs, flop into a hammock for a front-row view of the sunset, then dine feet-in-the-sand on just-caught fish to a reggae soundtrack.

5. Enjoy volcanic island life

The twin-coned volcanic Isla de Ometepe rises out of the silver-flat surface of Lake Nicaragua, and both fertile, dormant Volcán Maderas and rocky, fiery Volcán Concepción make challenging climbs.

Less strenuous is the beautiful cloud forest hike to the San Ramón waterfall , wildlife-watching from a kayak along the green-fringed Istián River, howler-monkey spotting at Reserva Charco Verde and hikes to ancient petroglyphs. Or tour a community-owned coffee finca or a tree-to-bar chocolate farm before a feast of organic farm-to-fork fare at Café Campestre .

My favorite thing to do in Nicaragua

I love tucking into Nicaragua’s one-of-a-kind dishes. Nacatamales are flavorsome parcels of corn dough stuffed with marinated spicy pork or chicken, rice, chilies, olives and more, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

Granada’s favorite street food is vigorón , an energy-boosting combination of boiled cassava and crispy chicharrones (fried pork rinds), topped with a tangy cabbage salad.

The country’s bountiful tropical fruits, such as mangos, guanábana (soursop) and calala (passion fruit), appear in batidas (shakes), top-notch coffee is grown on fertile volcanic slopes, while Flor de Caña’s 12-year-old naturally aged rum is rated one of the world’s finest. And now artisan chocolate makers, such as Argencove in Granada, are turning the country’s cacao into award-winning chocolate bars.

How much money do I need for Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries in Central America. There’s accommodation to suit all budgets, from hostels and family-run guesthouses to eco-friendly boutique hotels and luxe resorts. Buses are a bargain, and you can fill up on street food, eat in a comedor (local restaurant) or splurge on fine dining.

• Hostel bed: from US$8
• Budget hotel room for two: from US$27
• Bus ticket: from US$1
• Dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant: from US$25
• Nicaraguan coffee: from US$2
• Local beer: from US$1.30

Is Nicaragua safe to visit?

Statistically, Nicaragua is the safest country in Central America after Costa Rica. Just take the same precautions you would at home. Don’t flash your cash or valuables in public places, and avoid isolated and dimly lit areas at night, especially if you’re alone – ask a local for advice on unsafe neighborhoods.

Order a radio taxi where possible, and if you rent a car don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. If you come across a demonstration, leave the area.

Editor's note: This article was sponsored by Nicaragua Tourism after the city was selected for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024. Sponsors do not influence a destination's inclusion in Best In Travel, which is determined solely by Lonely Planet's editorial team.

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• Catarina Tourism
• Catarina Itineraries
• Catarina Hotels

Top Tourist Attractions in Catarina

• North America
• Masaya Department
• Things To Do In Catarina

Best Things To Do in Catarina, Nicaragua

Catarina is a small place in Nicaragua and can be easily explored within a day. There aren’t many things to do and attractions to visit in this town. Also, being a small town, there are fewer accommodation options. People usually consider making a quick stop here before heading to the neighboring cities. You can halt here for a quick snack and take a little break from your journey.

You can check out the list of the cities near Catarina and find out the top things to do in these towns. So, the next time you are in Catarina, you can decide which neighboring city to visit for a memorable trip.

• Finca Las Nubes
• Miramar Surf Camp
• Estadio Diriangen
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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Nicaragua

Written by Carri Wilbanks Updated Jul 13, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Biodiverse and naturally beautiful, Nicaragua is a still off-the-grid destination, filled with active volcanoes, cloud forests, jungles, lakes, and two coastlines, all boasting plenty of attractions and things to do.

Outdoor adventure enthusiasts can hike to natural attractions like crater lakes in dormant volcanos or sled down mountains of ash on wooden boards. While those in search of wildlife experiences can explore one of the many protected reserves around Nicaragua that are home to everything from jaguars to howler and white-faced monkeys and hundreds of species of birds.

With beaches on both its Caribbean and Pacific Ocean coastlines, there are plenty of options for getting wet as well. Towns like San Juan del Sur on the Pacific Ocean's Emerald Coast near Costa Rica are top places to visit, famous for their colorful architecture and surf scene. While the Corn Islands in the Caribbean Sea are known for their laid-back beach vibe.

Managua is Nicaragua's capital city, but people tend not to linger here unless visiting for business. Many things to do really lie in the smaller cities, like Leon and Granada , which are known for their colorful architecture and churches, and natural attractions such as Lake Nicaragua. It is the largest freshwater lake in Central America and home to hundreds upon hundreds of islands, including some with amazing ecolodges.

And then there are the multitude of volcanoes, some dormant; others, like the Masaya Volcano , still very much active. Here are our picks for the top things to see and do around Nicaragua.

1. Islets of Granada

2. corn islands, 3. masaya volcano, 4. cerro negro, 5. mombacho volcano nature preserve, 6. lake nicaragua, 7. san juan del sur, 8. somoto canyon national monument, 9. isla ometepe, 10. bosawas biosphere reserve, 11. granada, 12. reserva natural miraflor, 14. apoyo lagoon natural reserve, 15. san juan de oriente, map of attractions & things to do in nicaragua.

Lake Nicaragua is home to 365 small islands that form an archipelago known as Las Isletas or Islets of Granada, due to their location southeast of the colonial city of Granada. The islets are more than 25,000 years old, initially formed from the ash and stones of the Mombacho volcano .

While some islets are deserted, others have limited development, mostly in the form of ecolodges. Jicaro Island Lodge is one such place. The boutique property is truly special, a place where you can disconnect to reconnect with nature. And you can explore the other islets by SUP board or kayak from the dock at Jicaro if you're staying here.

The accommodation at Jicaro Island Lodge is in two-story wooden treehouses that have an indoor/outdoor vibe and truly feel like sleeping in the midst of the jungle (but are protected from mosquitoes and other biting bugs).

In the Caribbean Sea, about 70 kilometers off Nicaragua's east coast, the Corn Islands are where to go for a laid-back holiday. Big Corn is where you will usually arrive (there are flights from Managua), but you can sleep on either isle.

Despite its name, the Big Corn is actually quite small, and you can bike around it in about an hour. The beaches here are beautiful, light-gold-sand affairs fronted by crystal-clear, turquoise water that stays warm year-round.

From Big Corn, it is a 40-minute boat ride to Little Corn . The tiny island has some accommodation and eating options but no banks or vehicles. You can walk around Little Corn in less than an hour.

There is excellent diving in the reefs off both the Corn Islands, which is why many people visit.

Protected in the country's largest national park, the Masaya Volcano is also one of Nicaragua's top places to visit, just 20 kilometers south of Nicaragua's capital city of Managua.

The most amazing part about visiting this active volcano is how close you can get to the lip of the crater in a private vehicle - you simply drive right up to the edge and park, although you have to park facing downhill in case an emergency evacuation is necessary.

Looking down into the crater, you can see a lake of molten lava. Visit after dark to see the glow the bubbling lava creates inside the pit. If you visit during the day, there is a museum on-site, as well as picnic facilities.

The volcano can be visited on a day trip from Managua or Granada .

If you want to get your adrenaline pumping a bit then head to Cerro Negro. One of the youngest volcanoes in the world, it last erupted in 1999 and features a dramatic black cone.

While it's still considered active, today most people head to Cerro Negro to try their skills at volcano surfing. The sport involves riding down the side of the volcano's black ash on a wooden surfboard. You'll be wearing a boiler suit and goggles for protection, and you can reach speeds of upwards of 60 miles per hour. The boards can either be ridden sled style (sitting down) or standing up like a surf or snowboard.

Note that to ride down the volcano, you have to hike up. The trek takes about 40 minutes. Most people try this on an organized adventure tour.

Located atop the dormant Mombacho Volcano, this nature preserve includes a unique cloud forest landscape and covers 2,500 acres. It sits to the southwest of Managua , just 10 kilometers from the colonial town of Granada and magnificent Lake Nicaragua .

Surrounded by rural farms and coffee plantations, the landscape is beautiful. The reserve is known for its prolific, colorful and fragrant flora, with more than 800 species of plants growing here.

There are also hundreds of animal species making their home on Mombacho, including the bright red and green quetzal bird and a number of monkey species such as white-faced monkeys and howler monkeys. The best way to experience the preserve is on one of the many hiking trails running through it.

The reserve is also home to a tourist center, where you can pick up a guide to hike around one of the four volcanic craters, all covered with a rare type of cloud forest that is only found in one other spot in Nicaragua: the Maderas volcano on Ometepe Island .

When Spanish colonists first saw Lake Nicaragua, it was so vast, they thought it was a sea. In reality, it is Central America's largest lake at 177 kilometers long with an average width of 57 kilometers. It is home to more than 365 small islets and larger islands, like Ometepe, with two volcanos, in the lake's center.

Another interesting fact about Lake Nicaragua is that it is the only freshwater lake to have ocean animals, including sharks. It is believed the lake was once a sea bay, but then a volcano erupted, trapping marine life and turning it into an inland lake. Over the millennia, the marine life has adapted to living in freshwater.

In southwest Nicaragua, on the Emerald Coast, near the border with Costa Rica , San Juan del Sur is a vibrant town with a large expat community and an excellent surf beach just 20 miles to the north. The town itself is filled with colorful buildings and murals. There is also a large Christ of the Mercy statue perched on a hill overlooking the city below that is worth a hike up for sunset, especially to experience the views.

And then there is the long gold-sand meets Pacific Ocean Playa Maderas beach, which is also lined with small hotels and eco-resorts. It picks up most of the swells that hit Nicaragua and is best approached at medium to high tide.

The beach is also known for its long, drawn-out sunsets with an amazing display of bright, shifting colors.

Discovered accidentally in 2004 by two Czech geologists, Somoto Canyon National Monument is now a protected gorge in northern Nicaragua about 2.5 hours from Leon .

The scenery here is stunningly beautiful, and this is also another perfect destination for adrenaline addicts. You can book four- or six-hour descents of the narrowest section of the gorge. Both trips require rock scrambles, floating down rapids in inner tubes, and jumping from high cliffs into deep pools. The six-hour trip also includes rappelling down cliffs into bat-filled caves. Either way this is an adventurous day trip.

Isla Ometepe is in Lake Nicaragua, the largest freshwater lake in Central America and also home to the Islets of Granada. The island has not one but two volcanos, both of which can be climbed.

Maderas is the volcano in the south of Ometepe, and it is less active than the Concepcion volcano in the north. The hike to the summit of Maderas takes you to a beautiful crater lake. There is also an impressive waterfall at the base that cascades for almost 50 meters down a sheer rock wall.

The island is also popular for horseback riding, mountain biking, or kayaking the Istian River that runs through it. You can also just laze on the white sands of Santo Domingo beach.

Second only in size to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, Nicaragua's Bosawas Biosphere Reserve was established in 1997 to protect the biodiversity found in this northern corner of the country. The reserve also protects the free flow of species between Mexico and Central America.

A birder's paradise, you'll find that 600 of the 790 bird species that call Nicaragua home live in this reserve. You'll also find plenty of mammals, including jaguars, Baird's tapir, and spider monkeys in the trees and on the forest floor.

Colorful Granada is a wonderful old city to wander for an afternoon. It is home to some of the best-preserved architecture in Nicaragua, including a number of buildings and churches constructed in Spanish colonial style.

Here, you'll find Convento San Francisco , which is one of the oldest churches in Central America. It has an unmissable Tiffany blue facade, and inside, you'll find one of Nicaragua's top museums, dedicated to the country's pre-Columbian people. There are also restaurants, shops, and coffee houses with sidewalk seating around its main square.

Granada is a popular base for exploring the islands in Lake Nicaragua on whose shore it sits.

From cooling off under icy waterfalls to horseback riding or trekking in search of some 300 species of birds that live here, including the bright queen quetzal, there is plenty to keep you naturally entertained at Reserva Natural Miraflor.

This reserve in Nicaragua's north covers three climate zones, including dry forest and cloud forest. Visitors can also participate in community tourism projects here at coffee cooperatives. These give you a chance to spend a night with a local family and get a glimpse into their culture and way of life.

Home to Nicaragua's National University , Leon is considered the country's intellectual capital. The city is also known for its cathedral, art museums, and growing food scene. Leon's cathedral is Central America's biggest, and merges Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

Just a few blocks north of the cathedral is Iglesia de la Recoleccion , which is a beautiful church dating back to 1786. It is built in Mexican-style Baroque design and features a distinct, deep-yellow facade with cream trim. While strolling the walkable downtown, also keep an eye out for murals and graffiti dating back to the political war of the 1980s.

You can also visit the 16th-century ruins of Leon Viejo (old Leon), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the first Spanish colonial settlements in the Americas. These ruins are just a short drive from Leon.

Less than a 30-minute drive from Granada , Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve is a giant volcanic crater lake that was created more than 20,000 years ago when the original volcano's cone imploded.

The lake is about 198 meters deep and is so big that when the wind blows hard enough, there are waves big enough to windsurf. The lake is also fed by volcanic fumaroles that keep the water warm and slightly salty.

Activities include kayaking, swimming, scuba diving to explore thermal vents, or just chilling at one of the restaurants on the beachfront.

If you are in the market for ceramic handicrafts , whether in the form of ornately decorated vases or functional cookware, pay a visit to the village of San Juan de Oriente. Located about 45 kilometers from Managua, it is known as the "town of potters," and the artisans here have been creating beautiful pieces out of clay since before the Spanish conquistadors invaded the region.

Upon entering the small town, which has a beautiful setting overlooking the Masaya lagoon, you'll see dozens of pottery shops . The majority of people here earn their living creating colorful works of art and are very friendly and happy to share their work and the stories behind it with travelers. Most of the shops are family-run affairs, with one member in charge of the carving and design, another overseeing the kiln, and a third polishing the finished product.

Some names to look for while shopping include Gregorio Bracamonte's recreations of pre-Columbian jaguar vases (the artist passed away in 2019, making his work even more valuable today); and Helio Guitérrez, who is known for his bold geometric designs.

For working kitchenware that includes intricate designs, visit Miguel Angel Calero's shop. His pieces are also known for their highly polished, glass-like shine, and he has been called a local Michelangelo.

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Central America: This part of the world offers many great adventures and intriguing destinations. To the south of Nicaragua, Cost Rica is fill with natural attractions, beaches, and incredible opportunities to see wildlife. Also worth checking out in Central America are the sights of Guatemala . Lakes, volcanoes, culture, and history make this a country worth working into your itinerary.