Surrounded by Nature: 5 Popular Tourist Spots in Nicaragua

Nicaragua, a land of breathtaking natural beauty, is nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. On its western side, you’ll find a striking volcanic landscape, home to the famous Momotombo Volcano, which erupted in 2015, along with other active volcanoes that have earned the country the nickname "Land of Fire." Meanwhile, the Caribbean side boasts expansive wetlands and the sparkling emerald waters of the Caribbean Sea, where visitors can enjoy thrilling activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and canoeing. In this article, we introduce five must-visit tourist destinations in Nicaragua that showcase its vibrant charm.

1. Ruins of León Viejo

There are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the city of León in Nicaragua, one of which is the León Viejo ruins. "León Viejo" means "Old León," and this is the original site where the city of León was once located. However, in the 17th century, due to the increasing damage caused by the eruption of Momotombo Volcano, about 30 kilometers away, the city was relocated to its present location.

In the 1960s, excavations of cathedrals, houses, and fortresses buried under volcanic ash began, and in 2000, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since then, the number of visitors has increased. Not only is it significant within Nicaragua, but it is also one of the oldest Spanish colonial sites in the Americas. It is highly valued as a historical site that offers insight into the Spanish Empire's system and architectural methods.

Additionally, the symmetrical shape of Momotombo Volcano, visible from the León Viejo ruins, along with a lake at its base, is often said to resemble Mount Fuji. Be sure to visit both when sightseeing.

2. Masaya Volcano National Park

Masaya Volcano National Park is an active volcano located about 30 minutes by car from the capital, Managua. Since you can drive all the way to the crater, even those who are not confident in their physical strength can easily visit. It is one of the most recommended volcanoes for tourists in Nicaragua.

Within the park, there is the Masaya Volcano National Park Museum, where you can learn about the formation of Masaya Volcano and the surrounding flora. Due to constant smoke emissions from the crater, there is a warning for tourists not to stay at the crater for more than five minutes, so please be mindful not to linger too long.

There are also well-maintained hiking trails around the crater, allowing visitors to enjoy hiking while viewing the volcano. Why not experience one of Nicaragua’s most iconic volcanoes for yourself?

3. León Cathedral

León Cathedral is a cathedral in León, the second-largest city in Nicaragua, and is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many tourists visiting Nicaragua use León as a base for sightseeing, making the cathedral a bustling tourist destination.

León Cathedral is one of the largest cathedral structures in Central and South America, designed by Guatemalan architect Diego José de Porres Esquivel. Given Nicaragua's frequent earthquakes, similar to Japan, the cathedral's pillars were designed to be thick, providing a more robust structure compared to Spanish-style architecture. This gives it a stable and solid appearance.

The interior is filled with natural light, making it bright, and its ceiling and altar decorations are magnificent and impressive. From the rooftop, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of León. After renovations, the roof was repainted in pure white, creating a beautiful contrast against the blue sky, making it a new must-visit attraction for tourists.

4. Corn Islands

The Corn Islands are a resort destination in the Caribbean Sea, located on the eastern side of Nicaragua, known for their beautiful nature. The islands consist of Big Corn Island and Little Corn Island, attracting most visitors who wish to enjoy the sea in Nicaragua.

With emerald-green, crystal-clear waters, visitors can enjoy various marine sports and diving activities, observing fish and stingrays up close. Unlike other islands in the Caribbean, the Corn Islands are not overly developed, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere where both tourists and locals enjoy a slower pace of life.

Big Corn Island is accessible by a 1.5-hour flight from the capital, Managua. For those seeking an even more tranquil experience, Little Corn Island can be reached via a 40-minute boat ride from Big Corn Island.

5. Granada Cathedral: A Colonial Gem in Nicaragua

Located in the historic city of Granada, Nicaragua, the Granada Cathedral is a must-visit attraction for travelers. Its charming pastel-colored façade and well-preserved interior make it hard to believe that this cathedral has stood for over a century. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful religious paintings and sculptures of Christ, adding to the cathedral’s timeless beauty.

Beyond the cathedral, Granada’s streets are lined with colorful colonial-style houses and quaint shops, creating a picturesque atmosphere. Unlike other cities in Nicaragua, Granada is more tourist-friendly and has a safer environment, making it a perfect place for solo travelers, even those unfamiliar with the country.

For an even more breathtaking view of the city, visit La Merced Church. From its clock tower, you can admire the Granada Cathedral’s stunning yellow walls with white accents, looking like a scene straight out of a painting—a picture-perfect moment you won’t want to miss!

◎ Summary

Though Nicaragua remains an underrated travel destination, more and more visitors are discovering its hidden gems. From charming colonial cities like Granada and León to the raw beauty of Masaya Volcano, this country offers a unique blend of history and nature.
But perhaps the greatest treasure of Nicaragua is its warm and welcoming people.

Whether you're exploring its breathtaking landscapes or wandering through its historic streets, you’ll be embraced by the kindness and hospitality of the locals. Come and experience the magic of Nicaragua!

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Surrounded by Nature: 5 Popular Tourist Spots in Nicaragua