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NICARAGUA
Nicaragua borders Honduras to the north and Costa Rica to the south. To the east lies the Caribbean, and to the west the Pacific. In the north are the Isabella Mountains, while the country’s main feature in the southwest is Lake Nicaragua, 148km (92 miles) long and about 55km (34 miles) at its widest. The island of Ometepe is the largest of the 310 islands on the lake. These islands have a reputation for great beauty and are one of the country’s main tourist attractions. Lake Managua is situated to the northwest. Volcanoes, including the famous Momotombo, protrude from the surrounding lowlands northwest of the lakes. The country’s main rivers are the San Juan, the lower reaches of which form the border with Costa Rica, and the Rio Grande. The Corn Islands (Islas del Maiz) in the Caribbean are two small beautiful islands fringed with white coral and palms. They are very popular as holiday resorts with both Nicaraguans and tourists. The majority of Nicaragua’s population lives and works in the lowland between the Pacific and western shores of Lake Nicaragua, the southwestern shore of Lake Managua and the southwestern sides of the range of volcanoes. It is only in recent years that settlers have taken to coffee growing and cattle farming in the highlands around Matagalpa and Jinotega.
The days of the Contra war and the Sandinistas are over, no more than fascinating graffiti and gunfire stuck stubbornly on walls. And, although certain parts of Nicaragua are best avoided, it is actually one of the safest countries in Central America, enhanced by its friendly, foreign-welcoming people. Although certain areas lack tourist facilities, some do not – and those that do, are arguably better for their untouched beauty and 'off the beaten track' appeal. This appeal, should you visit, is instantly evident: Nicaragua incorporates three stunning eco-regions (Pacific, Central and Atlantic), containing everything from volcanoes, tropical forests, beaches, and agricultural land.
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