Cart is empty It’s Friday again and my journey is to Nicaragua.
Nicaragua is known as the country of Lakes and Volcanoes because there are 19 volcanoes in Nicaragua, of which, 9 are still active. During my stay in Nicaragua, I was able to climb and “surfboard” down the side of Cerro Negro, hiked to El Hoyo and swam in the crater of Apoyo. This was an amazing experience, and every nature and adrenaline lover would enjoy this marvelous country.
This beautiful land is situated between North and South America and it is called ‘the heart of Central America’. Regardless, Nicaragua is located on one of the most beautiful places in the world and was not a very popular tourist destination until a couple of years ago. The country survived many political problems, civil wars, disruptive earthquakes and volcanoes. The capital, Managua was destroyed many times in the last two centuries. Nicaragua had a bad reputation; however, this has completely changed and it is completely safe to visit. Some of the nicest and friendliest people on earth live in Nicaragua. If you like to hike or surf, then I encourage you to visit Nicaragua.
I flew in late to Managua and took a taxi to Leon for $65, a bit pricey for Nicaragua, but I wanted to go directly to the hotel. I stayed in a hostel, had my own room and bathroom for $20 a night; however, dorms for 4 usually goes for about $7. In general, it is very cheap, and almost everyone can afford a vacation there. I ate in a restaurant for less than $5 USD per meal. Try the local food – Gallo Pinto (made with rice and beans) and Vigoron, which is one of the best local dishes. The transportation is also very cheap – $0.20 by bus and around $2-3 by taxi. Generally, activities are very inexpensive because most of them (for example a trip to Apoyo) cost between $10-30 USD.
Of course, I went to Cerro Negro, which means ‘Black Hill’ in Spanish. It was formed less than 160 years ago, which makes it the youngest volcano of Central America. We were a group of 12 and it took us about an hour to hike to the top with two stops between. Once at the top, we walked around the crater rim and enjoyed the incredible view. The views were priceless, and the crater was impressive. I decided to go for the adventure and boarded down the side of the volcano at speeds in excess of 40 mph. Wow, and what an adventure!
My next destination was El Hoyo. This time we were a group of five – Kara, the leader, Bobby, Sarah and Stephie. It was 94 degrees, and Stephanie began having problems going up the hills. I knew it was going to be a long 2 days, but we eventually took turns carrying her pack. Stephanie had a mild heat stroke on day 2 but made it out. The hike was very challenging despite stating as a medium hike, and it took the group about 4 hours to get to the rim of El Hoyo. There was a huge sinkhole located at the top of El Hoyo, and we cautiously went to explore it. The sinkhole was unlike anything I have ever seen in my life. The views at the top of Hoyo are some of the most fantastic views that you will ever see in your life.
Whatever you choose – fishing, surfing, hiking, exploring markets, visiting small villages or vast beaches, you will fall in love in Nicaragua. Because this country is made of adventure, passion, emotion, and your memories will last forever!