It may not be at the top of your travel list currently, but Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America, offers diverse options of coastal getaways, volcanic adventures, and rich culture. Made up of three main regions: Pacific, Central, and Caribbean, each area has its own natural beauty and history for those seeking adventure and a unique cultural experience. Here are five more reasons to visit “The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes.”

Coffee Route

Take an afternoon to explore the origins of some of the best coffee in the world. The Nicaraguan Coffee Route is located in the northern part of the country. On this route, you will tour numerous coffee farms as well as take in the tropical countryside. There are also many opportunities to hike, bike, and horseback ride for those seeking a little more adventure.

Surfing & Beaches

Traveling along the Pacific coast will provide the best options for surfers of all levels. San Juan Del Sur is an old fishing town that has become a prime destination for partiers and surfers. For a more relaxed surfing and beach experience, head over to Aseradores for its big waves and isolated setting.

Wildlife

One of Nicaragua’s largest draws is its wildlife. You can watch sea turtles hatch on the Pacific Coast or head to Lake Nicaragua for incredible bird watching and aquatic life. You could even face a jaguar or cougar while taking a hiking tour in the jungle.

Cheap

Nicaragua is an incredibly affordable country, allowing you to stay for a long period of time and enjoy its many different regions. Sticking with cheap hostels and local street food including traditional gallo pinto will also help to keep the budget down.

Hiking Volcanoes

You can hike up and sandboard down many of the active volcanoes in Nicaragua. Masaya Volcano National Park was Nicaragua’s first national park and is now one of the main tourist attractions in the country. Visitors can peer into the center of the active volcano and see the lake of molten lava inside.

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