Nicaragua

The country is mostly famous for its lengthy war in which a popular uprising was suppressed by a US-backed government, as well as its breathtaking landscapes, flora and fauna, culture, beaches and of course, its lakes and volcanoes. Although the country is still emerging from a state of shock, the recent calm is reason to be hopeful. Certain parts of Nicaragua are best avoided, however it’s actually one of the safest countries in Central America, enhanced by its friendly, welcoming people. Some areas lack tourist facilities, some do not – and those that do are arguably better for their untouched beauty and 'off the beaten track' appeal. Nicaragua incorporates three stunning eco-regions, containing everything from volcanoes, tropical forests, beaches, and agricultural land.

Understanding The Geography

Nicaragua is a democratic republic in Central America. It is the largest nation in the isthmus. The country is bordered on the north by Honduras and on the south by Costa Rica. Its western coastline is on the Pacific Ocean, while the east side of the country is on the Caribbean Sea.

The Pacific Lowlands

Located in the west of the country, these lowlands consist of a broad, hot, fertile plain. Punctuating this plain are several large volcanoes of the Maribios mountain range, including Mombacho just outside Granada, and Momotombo near Leon.

The lowland area runs from the Gulf of Fonseca to Nicaragua's Pacific border with Costa Rica south of Lake Nicaragua. This region is the most populous. About 27% of the nation's population lives in and around Managua, the capital city, on the southern shores of Lake Managua.

In addition to its beach and resort communities, the Pacific Lowlands is also the repository for much of Nicaragua's Spanish colonial heritage. Cities such as Granada and Leon abound in colonial architecture and artefacts.

The Central Region

This is an upland region away from the Pacific coast, with a cooler climate than the Pacific Lowlands. About a quarter of the country's agriculture takes place in this region, with coffee grown on the higher slopes. Oaks, pines, moss, ferns and orchids are abundant in the cloud forests of the region.

Bird life in the forests of the central region includes the Resplendent Quetzal, goldfinches, hummingbirds, jays and toucanets.

The Atlantic Lowlands

This large rainforest region, with several large rivers running through it, is very sparsely populated. The Rio Coco forms the border with Honduras. The Caribbean coastline is much more sinuous than its generally straight Pacific counterpart. Lagoons and deltas make it very irregular.

Nicaragua's tropical east coast is very different from the rest of the country. The climate is predominantly tropical, with high temperature and high humidity. Around the area's principal city of Bluefields.

A great variety of birds can be observed including eagles, turkeys, toucans, parakeets and macaws. Animal life in the area includes several different species of monkeys, anteaters, white-tailed deer and tapirs.

Understanding The Culture

The country has strong folklore, music and religious traditions, deeply influenced by Iberian Peninsula culture but enriched with Amerindian sounds and flavours. Nicaragua has historically been an important source of poetry in the Hispanic world, with internationally renowned contributors such as Ruben Dario.