Map of Nicaragua's regions and points of interest
Discover the sites and places to visit
Nicaragua offers a wide variety of landscapes and experiences concentrated in a compact territory. This map shows the country's main tourist attractions.
1. Corn Islands
Ideal for scuba diving, Big and Little Corn Island were discovered by Christopher Columbus. Isolated more than 70km from the mainland coast, they feature turquoise and emerald waters and coral reefs. A picture-postcard representation of idyllic Caribbean beaches, where you can combine water sports activities with total relaxation in this paradise-like setting. Populated by natives of African descent, their roots and culture are very different from mainland Nicaragua. These two small islands are a change of scenery in themselves, and the crossing between them can sometimes be a real adventure.
2. Nicaragua's Pacific Coast
Nicaragua's Pacific coastline stretches from the Honduras border in the north to the Costa Rican border in the south. Dotted with long beaches, this region is a delight for water sports enthusiasts, from surfing to sport fishing. Here, you can also explore the local wildlife, including Paslama turtle nesting in the San Juan del Sur region and whale watching off the coast.
3. Lake Nicaragua
The largest freshwater lake in Central America, whose original name is Lake Cocibolca (sweet sea), boasts atypical landscapes and extraordinary islands, including the island of Ometepe, with its two volcanoes, Maderas and Concepción. You can explore Ometepe Island on horseback, by kayak or on foot, and relax on the beaches of Santo Domingo. A little further south, the Solentiname archipelago is a collection of 36 islets, most of them deserted and cut off from the world: a true haven of peace that continues to inspire local and international artists. Last but not least, the unexpected inhabitants of the Guatuzos region (birds, crocodiles, monkeys, etc.), will welcome you and help you discover this unspoilt nature reserve.
4. León and the North West
From León to the Cosiguina volcano, at the northern tip of the country, take advantage of your stay in this region to discover all its beauties: first León, a colonial and historic city: today, an active university town, its alleyways are filled with drawings, frescoes and murals that recall the revolutionary era the country went through. Then take to the heights and conquer the volcanoes: Cerro Negro, Telica, San Cristobal, Cosignuia: there's something for every taste and level. Even the youngest are welcome to toboggan down one of them. Finally, don't miss the nearby Pacific coast, Poneloya or Las Peñitas, where you can enjoy the beaches or discover the Juan Venado reserve.
5. The Caribbean
Nicaragua's Caribbean coast, commonly known as "la Costa", encompasses the autonomous regions of the north and south, and immerses you in a relaxed, Creole atmosphere. Bilwi in the north is a little-known region, ideal for adventurers who love miles of jungle, forests and lagoons. To the south, Bluefields is the capital of the Caribbean coast, a chaotic and fascinating city. For a little piece of paradise, head for the small islands of white sand and palm trees at Cayos Miskitos.
6. Matagalpa and the northern lands
In the north of the country, you'll discover small villages, forests and mountains, where the warm welcome of the local population awaits you. Travelling on horseback and wearing cowboy hats, the people of the north have preserved the traits of rural life of yesteryear. Discover Estelí and its tobacco production, Matagalpa and its coffee plantations, Jinotega for its country walks or the Miraflor nature reserve with its 300 species of orchids and numerous birds. The recently discovered Somoto Canyon is also a good option for visiting the region on foot.
7. The Granada region
The Granada region is rich in discoveries and visits. First and foremost, Granada is known as the oldest colonial city on the American continent, still located on its original site. Nicknamed the Grande Sultana, it's a true colonial treasure that's a pleasure to explore on foot or in a horse-drawn carriage. Your stay here will also be an opportunity to discover the Isletas, an archipelago of 400 islets located on Lake Nicaragua, or the Pueblos Blancos, villages of handcrafted specialties in the surrounding area. Finally, and because Nicaragua deserves its nickname of "land of volcanoes", you can also hike on the Mombacho volcano or the Masaya volcano, whose crater you can approach at night: a unique experience!
8. The Managua region
Located on the southern shore of Lake Managua, Managua is the capital of Nicaragua. It is by far the country's largest city, with a population of over one million. Due to the many earthquakes that have shaken the city, there is no city center to speak of. After these events, most of the construction that took place in the city was on the outer edges. However, a few buildings that survived the earthquakes are still in use: the National Palace, the Palace of Fine Arts and the Government House.
9. The Centre region
The Chontales region lies in the central part of Nicaragüense territory and is characterized by cattle breeding: meat and cheese are therefore king here. In Juigalpa, its capital, you're sure to come across cowboys herding cattle. Although still little-known by tourists, this region abounds in natural, archaeological and historical attractions: you can discover the archaeological site of Piedras Pintadas or sample a "quesillo" in the village of Santo Tomas.
10. Rio San Juan
Observe the flora and fauna along the Rio San Juan, where you might even spot a shark. During your trip to this wild region, you'll discover the village of El Castillo and its fort, La Fortaleza de la Inmaculada Concepción, built by the Spaniards in the 17th century. Then take a stroll through the Indio Maiz wildlife reserve, where you may come across manatees, monkeys, crocodiles, frogs and turtles.
1. Corn Islands
2. Nicaragua's Pacific Coast
3. Lake Nicaragua
4. León and the North West
5. The Caribbean
6. Matagalpa and the northern lands
7. The Granada region
8. The Managua region
9. The Centre region
10. Rio San Juan
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