it's OFTEN TOUTED AS THE "NEW COSTA RICA"... 

BUT Nicaragua is so much more than an imitation.

For one, it's cheaper, safer and less developed than Costa Rica (all good things for the budget traveler). But more importantly, Nicaragua is a unique natural playground with a vibrant culture, rising cuisine scene and a landscape all its own. 

Intrepid adventure-seekers have secretly been flocking to Latin America's poorest country to surf San Juan del Sur, "snowboard" down an active volcano and hike through mystical cloud forests for years. But Nicaragua has more than enchanting Caribbean islands and a mellow surf community to offer visitors. Quaint colonial (albeit bullet-holed) towns, rowdy folk fiestas and sweeping volcano views have helped this destination overcome the stigma of it's war-torn past to become a rising star on the ecotourism circuit.

Not yet Westernized by ex-pats and pop-culture, the people of Nicaragua are still adjusting to the influx of tourism -- which is a good thing because it means you can still find cheap eats for under $4, great thrift shops, very affordable tours and volcano hikes, and the lowest price of transportation in all of Central America.

Pack your bags, this one's going to be good.

Already been to Nicaragua? Share your tips here so we can share the wealth.

One of the reasons why Nicaragua is such an easy destination for short-term travelers is that much of the attractions are packed into the Pacific Coast. This makes it easy to pack A LOT into a few weeks. Hike the waterfalls between volcanoes on the island of Ometepe; go volcano boarding down the side of an active volcano, Cerro Negro, in Leon; surf the crystal clear waters of Maderas beach in San Juan Del Sur (or just go to party for Sunday Funday); and shop the artisanal markets of Masaya in Granada.

Have more time?  You're lucky - there's so much more to explore. Fly to the unspoiled, majestic beaches of the east coast Little Corn Islands and visit a tropical paradise that's truly off the grid.

Here are a few itineraries to get you started:

Typical Tourist Trail.

(Usually Travelers ON A Big Central America Trip).

Overland from or to Honduras stopping at Leon, Granada and Ometepe. Towns like Granada which are quite pleasant, but nothing too special, are hives of activity for budget travelers. The best way to describe them? Picking up where the Bay Island in Honduras leave off. That means good times, good weather and good company.

Many tourists coming from the south via Costa Rica hire cars and drive as far as Granada, though we don' think this is the best way to do it. 

FROM THE NORTH.

1. EL CAÑON DEL SOMOTO: If you are coming from the North, your first stop may be Leon, but you would be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t make it over to El Cañon Del Somoto for a private canyon tour. This off-the-beaten track attraction is worth the trip. Try and find your way to Bayardo Soriano, not to be confused with the other Soriano cousin who will rip you off. Bayardo gives tours and lets guests stay in his guesthouse by the canyon. He works strictly from word of mouth, so you won’t find his tours in Lonely Planet.

2. LEON: Make your way to the dingy, but historical city of Leon, where the streets are filled with farmers riding their horse and carriage side by side with the buzzing motorcycles and cars. Leon is quite the anomaly. It’s a progessive city with hostels popping up on every corner, yet, in parts of the city it’s as if time stood still.

Street markets behind the Basilica Catedral de la Asunción, and offer cheap eats cooked by women who will bargain with you for a deliciously crispy piece of pollo (we’re talkin’ a full plate of food for ~$40).

3. VOLCANO BOARDING: The real reason you’re in Leon is to go Volcano Boarding. There are a few places you can do it, but Bigfoot Hostel is the #1 party place to go. You get a free tank top, mojito, cookie, and beer for going with them. Sled your way down the side of (an active) Cerro Negro volcano; it may be one of the coolest things you’ll do in your life. Once you’ve survived made it to the bottom, enjoy a refreshing cervesa and homemade cookie. If sleeping at a party hostel isn’t your style, stay at the quiet, affordable ($8-$10/night) Via Via hostel just across the street from Big Foot.

 4. MANAGUA: Managua is the country’s capitol and is your key bus transfer, or flight destination. We skipped it, but the street art that caught our attention on the bus ride through was sincerely cool.

 5. OMETEPE: The lake (Lago de Nicaragua) is the other big draw card. Ometepe (the largest and by far the most visited island) is picture perfect, but might not hold your attention for very long. 

OFF THE BEATEN PATH.

Due to their location, the Corn Islands are not often visited -- but they should be.

As always, we strongly recommend you get out there and explore -- but don't expect too much unless you are big into relaxing on pristine Caribbean beaches with lovely locals. Don't worry about the revolution -- it's long over and there should be no lingering effects to hamper your travel.

If you're even remotely interested in waves, Nicaragua is probably on your radar as a destination in and of itself. Outside the surf scene, most travelers are visiting as part of an extended trip through Central America or as an extension of a visit to the more southern Costa Rica.

For better or for worse, hundreds of backpacks make their way to San Juan Del Sur for the insanely popular party hosted by Pacha Mama hostel every Sunday. It's reached the stuff of legends on the backpacker circuit, in much the same way that some associate the Thai islands with the Full Moon Party on Ko Phangnan.

HOW DO WE RATE NICA? 6/10

Sure, the culture could be richer or more unique & the people a little more welcoming, but there is no denying the beauty of this country, even if it hasn't yet found its niche.

Beaches, mountains, waterfalls plus a surf and party scene – this place will leave you with memories you’ll never forget.

 Just make sure they’re not memories you’ll regret after having too many Flor de Caña’s on Sunday Funday.

THE RAD.

On the cutting edge of tourism and growth, the potential for a Costa Rica-type effect is evident. Especially in places like San Juan Del Sur, where expats and westerners are slowly migrating to on account of it’s beautiful, lush beachscapes.

Want to know more? We've got a handy list of our favorite things about Nicaragua over on the Think Less. Travel More. blog.

THE BAD.

CRIME.

Can be a major bummer in this beautiful place. Although less common than in Costa Rica and Honduras, be sensible with your bag and take the obvious precautions: don’t go on the beach at night, don’t walk alone at night (especially you, ladies), and leave your phone locked up in your hostel, if you can. The number one target of robbers is the coveted iPhone.

HYGIENE.

 Can be an issue in Nicaragua, but it's on par with it's Central American neighbors. It’s a shame, but make sure you check the restaurant you’re eating at for mice or roaches before you sit down and enjoy that gallo pinto.

TRANSPORT TO CARIBBEAN COAST.

Is not easy, but well worth the effort. The only way to get to the Corn Islands (safely) is by flying there. A round-trip flight from Managua will cost you somewhere around $200. There is no sort of reliable ground transportation to the Caribbean cost of Nicaragua. Stories are rumored that you can easily be stranded in the middle of nowhere for days on end in the Wild Wild East Coast of Nicaragua.

Highlights.

AFFORDABLE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES.

Affordable outdoor activities abound. The activities are endless for anyone looking for a fun adventure and include everything from hiking up and ash-boarding down volcanoes, zip-lining, kayaking, surfing and more! 

Much of Nicaragua’s land has been beautifully preserved, leaving lush jungle rain forests, deserted beaches and dozens of volcanoes, rivers and lakes. This reason alone is worth visiting.

COLORS.

Nicaragua is bursting with color, from their old colonial architecture, to the local fashion, art and the indigenous flora and fauna. One of my favorite days was spent wandering the streets of Grenada, the oldest colonial city of Nicaragua filled with beautiful Spanish architecture and bright colorful buildings.

BEACHES & SURFING.

Although Costa Rica has dominated the surf tourism in Central America,Nicaragua offers up excellent conditions without the crowds. Just north of San Juan Del Sur, Playa Maderas is one of the most popular surfing beaches with serene white sandy beaches and consistent surf for beginners to pros.

CEVICHE & COFFEE.

It’s impossible to leave Nicaragua without becoming a ceviche-lover. Nicaraguan ceviche is made with local raw fish, onion, peppers, lime juice and cilantro. So fresh and delicious! And the coffee, some of the best I’ve had. Café Las Flores is Nicaragua’s top coffee producer and has been in the family for over three generations.

LOWLIGHTS.

"ONLY IN NICARAGUA".

The lowlight? Nicaragua lacks a specific site that can't be found in another country -- but that doesn't mean you should overlook the place. 

ACCOMMODATION.

Comfortable, economical lodging used to be a problem anywhere outside of Granada, though this is rapidly changing.

LOCALS.

Expect to rub elbows with locals that are much friendlier than in Costa Rica, the friendliest of which are said to be found in the areas around Ometepe.

Though not as culturally rich or colorful as the traditionally Mayan country of Guatemala, the people have a strong attitude towards the politics and history of their land. Can you blame them? The fight for stability is pretty evident in the streets of Managua and Leon to this day. They are proud to tell the story behind the name “Nicaragua”, meaning the center and surrounded by water. It’s a pretty accurate statement, so don’t be afraid to ask.

That said, there have been reports of "machismo" in the bigger cities, making some female travelers less keen to wear shorts because of cat calling -- but nothing major has been reported.

CROWD FACTOR.

Up to 8/10 in surf spots like San Juan Del Sur, though much lower once you're off the beaten path.

OTHER TRAVELERS.

Standard gringos, many on side trips from Costa Rica rather than those traveling the whole region. You will also find plenty of Peace Corps volunteers on leave as this is the poorest country in the region.

PER DAY. US$20

If decide to stay at a sketchy (but cheap) hostel you can spend even less, but you’d be sleeping on a mattress as thin as your quick-dry towel. Decent hostels will run you $8-$10 per night and you're looking at about the same to dine out 3x/day, not including bebidas. 

TRANSPORT.

You can get from one city to another for $1-$2 dollars. It’s pretty easy to get from destination from destination, and if you’re lucky, you’ll have a priest preaching words from the bible to you the whole ride. If you take shuttles from place to place, you’re looking to push that budget up an extra $15-$25 per day. Local buses may seem scary at first, but they are much more adventurous and economically sound.

EATING OUT.

We get it, you don’t want to eat mangos and aguacates in the kitchen of your hostel everyday. There are great eating options in Nica – the best ones are in the mercado’s.

Great, local fare usually costs less than $5 (and, we’re talking chicken, rice, beans, and some yucca if you’re lucky). Ask the locals where the closest Mercado is, and you won’t be let down (neither will your wallet).

SHOPPING.

 Unlike the artisanal mecca of Central America -- Guatemala -- Nicaragua is not swarming with original local crafts. Most of the stuff in Nicaragua that is sold on the streets originates from Guatemala. If you want to find the good, local stuff, find your way to Masaya. Just outside of Granada, you’ll find local buses (or shuttles) to this artisanal, affordable market. 

A WORD ON OMETEPE TOURS.

It should be noted that activities like  tours and volcano climbs at Ometepe aren't expensive, but not amazing value. Budget accordingly.

Navigating Buses In Nica.

Buses run around the country particularly on the Western side which is the good pan-American highway. Elsewhere roads are bad. Along the pan-American highway collectivos run at lightning speed. These are mini-buses that leave when full. Rates are fixed and good value.

VISITING OMETEPE.

The lake can often get a little rough, but transport is easy, on the island itself mountain biking is the best way to enjoy your time, but more than often it is too hot for this. If you want to really see the island, public transport will be quite time consuming, so make sure you have a few days and a good book to really 'do' Ometepe (although if you only spend a day or two you are not missing out on too much).

Per Night: < $8

With well-priced hostels are popping up left and right in places like Leon, Granada, Ometepe, and the beautiful south-pacific town of San Juan Del Sur a trip to Nicargua is easier -- and more affordable -- than ever before.

Accommodation can be found from US$5 for a very basic room, which is definitely bearable in the cooler seasons. For US$10-15 you'll get an okay room, and you shouldn't ever have to pay more than US$30 for a nice one. In large towns and on the tourist trail getting a room is never a problem.

FOOD.

Food is quite basic and limited in most places apart from those on the tourist trail where in many cases backpackers are well catered for. Prices are a little high by regional standards, but a bargain if coming from Costa Rica.

IN GRANADA.

We're big fans of The Garden Cafe, especially if you're a vegetarian or are just craving delicious fresh bread (which can be hard to find in Nicaragua).

 On the other side of the street, Calle la Libertad, you’ll find the restaurant Imagine. Although the food is not typical Nicaraguan, Imagine does work with local farmers and has great cocktails.

Basic rules to minimize the chance of getting sick from the food can be found in our Backpacker 101: Health and Safety page. 

VEGETARIANS.

Most places are fine for veggies, but more difficult as you enter more rural areas. 

DRINK.

Don't drink the water, duh. This goes for ice, popsicles that may be mixed with water, watered down fruit juice, teeth-brushing -- the standard developing nation rules.

More on this on our Health and Safety page. 

WHEN NOT TO GO.

As with the rest of the region be warned about traveling at the hottest time of year. It is still very possible, but heat is sometimes a little unbearable (especially at night) and AC rooms come at a price.

GETTING A VISA.

No visa required by most developed country nationals, but check the embassy website.

ENTERTAINMENT.

It's hard to track down books, so bring your own or crank up your kindle.

TV can be tracked down in reception at most hostels geared towards backpackers.

INTERNET.

Plentiful in the bigger cities and in most hostels.

CASH/ATMS.

In Nicaragua, stock up on cash when you can. 

Cordoba can be taken from ATMs in Granada, Leon and Managua, but ATMs do need some hunting. USD cash changes easily and is worth taking. Traveler's Checks can be changed in major cities, though the AMEX version are by far the best. Most banks in Nicaragua don't have ATMs, these are found (normally only one/two in a town) in mini shopping centers or other modern complexes. If in doubt ask locals. 

WOMEN TRAVELING ALONE.

Women be wary: wearing short shorts in places like Leon or Granada means men will be making all sorts of cat calls your way. 

More information on the topic in our Hassle & Annoyances Survival Guide.

There’s no way in hell that you can miss seeing tons of travelers wearing the branded “SUNDAY FUNDAY” tank tops, so we probably don't have to tell you about this party.

Hundreds of backpackers make their way to San Juan Del Sur for the insanely popular event hosted by the Pacha Mama hostel every Sunday. And, boy, we can confirm that it is NUTS! Love it or leave it, if this isn’t yet what Nica is famous for among travelers – it will be, soon.

Visit our Packing Survival Guide here.

Need a guidebook? here's our recommendation. 

The majority of travelers have the Central America guide as they're on longer trips through the region (which is pretty good). Footprint Central America guide is also a good option, although published in 2012.

Read our review of the top guidebooks here.

Have more questions?

feel like we should have included something else?

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CONTRIBUTORS:

Zena Hanna | @_Zigga

Carley Rudd | @CarleysCamera

Sam Shepherd | @WanderingShepherd