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Nicaragua

Travelers to Nicaragua will encounter a captivating blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. From the colonial charm of the small town of Granada to the imposing, twin volcanic peaks of Ometepe Island and world-class surfing along the Pacific coast, this Central American country packs in a lot of adventure for its small size.

The Nicaraguan Islands You’ll Never Want to Leave

Ometepe

Courtesy of Isleta El Espino

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles, resources, and guides to plan and inspire your next trip to Nicaragua.

Read Before You Go
Grenada is home to the world's first underwater garden.
Islands
5 Lesser-Known Caribbean Islands for a Crowd-Free Vacation
These places offer all the charms of the Caribbean with fewer people.
August 29, 2024 03:45 PM
 · 
Kristin Braswell
The Bushnells live in Granada, Nicaragua; they retired to the Central American country in 2006.
Travel Tips + Etiquette
We Retired in Nicaragua 18 Years Ago. Here Are the Pros—and Cons—of Retiring Abroad
May 22, 2024 05:05 PM
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Andrew Parks
8 Ways People Celebrate Trees Around the World
Spring 2022
8 Ways People Celebrate Trees Around the World
April 22, 2022 04:52 PM
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Iona Brannon
The Nicaraguan Islands You’ll Never Want to Leave
Outdoor Adventure
The Nicaraguan Islands You’ll Never Want to Leave
June 12, 2017 06:30 PM
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Anna Vodicka
5 Places in Nicaragua That Will Inspire Your Inner Artist
Art + Architecture
5 Must-Visit Places in Nicaragua for Artists and Creatives
May 08, 2017 01:41 PM
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Julia Eskins
Resources to help plan your trip
Can’t Miss Places to Visit and Things to Do in Nicaragua
Aqua Wellness Resort lives up to its name by offering an array of services that cater to the body, mind, and soul.
December 16, 2020 01:21 PM
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Marianna Jamadi
The Future of Travel
This New Storyteller-in-Residence Program Wants You to Help Save the Environment
It’s a whole new take on artist-in-residence programs.
September 08, 2016 06:25 PM
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Maggie Fuller
Destination Spotlight
5 Places to Visit in Nicaragua
One traveler shares her highlights from the Central American country.
February 03, 2016 07:38 PM
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Anna Mazurek
AFAR Company Updates
Our Most Memorable 2015 Travel Experiences II: Seeking Stillness
Swimming pigs, private islands, and real-life fantasy moments: AFAR staff share their most memorable travel experiences of the year. Part II.
December 14, 2015 06:03 PM
Bars + Nightlife
Interview with Nicaraguan Coffee Entrepreneur César Vega
César Vega almost singlehandedly changed the way coffee from Nicaragua is viewed in the United States. He talks to AFAR about the inspiration and driving forces behind his work.
December 08, 2015 02:45 PM
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Michaela Trimble
Food + Drink
Weekend Guide: Explore Nicaragua’s Coffee Culture
This Central American city is on the rise.
December 02, 2015 03:01 PM
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Hillary Richard
Where to Travel Next
Five Ways You’ll Fall in Love with Granada and the Isletas of Lake Nicaragua
Explore the local crafts scene, watch fisherman take in the day’s catch, and stay in a brand-new eco-lodge.
October 16, 2015 03:59 PM
 · 
Michaela Trimble
Destination Spotlight
Is Maderas Village Nicaragua’s Most Dreamy Resort?
On a trip to Nicaragua, AFAR Brand Manager, Michaela Trimble, sees how Maderas Village has created an artistic enclave anchored in the art of living well.
August 10, 2015 07:55 PM
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Michaela Trimble
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