As one of Central America’s most fascinating destinations, Nicaragua boasts lively culture, unique wildlife and many opportunities for adventure. Known for its large, beautiful lakes, stunning beaches and volcanos – there is surely something to pick at everyone’s interest. Furthermore, Nicaragua is home to over 70 different types of ecosystems – which makes up 7% of the world’s bio-diversity.  Our first exploration in Nicaragua was navigating the unique San Juan river by way of a kayaking expedition and since this time we have developed a number of stunning adventure and wildlife itineraries for both families and couples alike.

Geography

The ‘Land of Lakes and Volcanos’, Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America (over 130,000km square) and is bordered by Honduras to the north and Costa Rica to the south. Nicaragua is located in the center of Central American. Nearly one fifth of the territory is designated as protected areas like national parks, nature reserves, and biological reserves. The Pacific Ocean lies to the West, with the Carribean Sea lying to the East.
The population of Nicaragua is around 7 million with approximately 1/4 of the population living in the capital Managua.

Politics & Security

Although often remembered for the Contra War, this ended over 17 years ago and Nicaragua is one of the safest places in the whole of the Americas. That said as a ‘wealthy’ foreigner you need to stay alert and take precautions against muggings and theft. Particular care needs to be taken in Managua, San Juan del Sur and teh rural Caribbean Coast.

Economy & Tourism

Nicaragua is predominately an agricultural economy in terms of exports, including rum, tomacco, beef, bananas, coffee and sugar. Tourism has increased significantly year on year and is now the 2nd largest industry. To this date Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in the Americas.

Language

Central American Spanish is spoken by about 90% of Nicaragua’s population. Although Spanish is spoken throughout the country, the country has great variety: vocabulary, accents and colloquial language can vary between towns and departments. On top of this other languages which are still spoken (although many speak fluent Spanish as their 2nd language) include, creole English, native languages such as Miskito, Rama and Garifuna.

Religion

Religion is a significant part of the culture of Nicaragua and is referred to in the constitution. Nicaragua has no official religion, although the largest donomination is Roman catholic. There are also Protestant, Anglican and Moravian and Mormon followers.