Hola! I’m Margreet, and together with Leonel I run Mono Loco Adventures. Nicaragua has captured my heart, and we can’t wait to share why it belongs on your travel list too. From untouched volcanoes to Caribbean vibes, here are the top reasons why you should travel to Nicaragua.
1. The warmth of the friendly locals
The heart of Nicaragua is its people. Everywhere you go, you’re greeted with smiles, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to help. Maybe you will be invited to share a meal with a family, taught to dance salsa by strangers on the street, and guided to hidden spots by locals who just want you to love their country as much as they do. Traveling here feels personal, like you’re not just visiting a country, but being welcomed into it. And trust me, those connections will become some of your favorite memories.
2. Landscapes that leave you speachless
Nicaragua’s nature is pure magic. Imagine waking up on an island formed by two volcanoes, kayaking across the largest lake in Central America, and ending your day on a golden Pacific beach. The variety is amazing: misty highlands in the north, lush jungles in the south, smoking craters of the volcanoes, and tropical islands. Every corner feels like a different world, which makes traveling here endlessly exciting. It’s like traveling through different worlds all in one country. Everywhere you go, the views will leave you in awe.
3. Volcano adventures you will never forget
Where else in the world can you slide down the side of an active volcano? Only in Nicaragua! Cerro Negro is the only place in the world to try volcano boarding and yes, it’s as crazy and fun as it sounds. Beyond that, you can hike to the rim of Telica at sunset, camp on El Hoyo with views over León, or stand in awe at Masaya as glowing lava lights up the night. Nicaragua’s volcanoes aren’t just mountains they’re alive, and they make every adventure unforgettable.
4. Food that tastes like home
Nicaraguan food is simple but full of soul. Start your day with a plate of gallo pinto (rice and beans) with fresh cheese and plantains. Share on Sunday morning a nacatamal (a traditional dish wrapped in banana leaves) with a local family. Go to the market for the best Carne en Baho, Vigoron or Chancho con yuca. On the coast, it’s all about fresh lobster, ceviche, and fish caught just hours earlier. And if you love coffee, Nicaragua’s highlands produce some of the richest beans you’ll ever taste, best enjoyed while looking out over the plantations where they were grown. Eating here isn’t just a meal; it’s a way to connect with the country’s rhythms and traditions.
5. Colonial cities with soul
León and Granada are so much more than beautiful towns, they’re places that tell stories with every step you take. Granada charms you with colorful houses, leafy courtyards, and horse carriages that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. León is bold and passionate, full of murals, art, and buzzing nightlife. In both cities, history mixes with everyday life in the most beautiful way. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a sunny square, exploring museums, or watching the sunset from a cathedral rooftop, you’ll feel the magic.
6. Authentic heart of Central America
Nicaragua has the same stunning nature as Costa Rica, volcanoes, jungles, and endless beaches, but without the crowds. You can still find stretches of sand where you’re the only one watching the sun dip into the ocean. Every adventure here feels more personal, more real, and often costs far less. It’s a little raw, a little unpolished, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. If you’re looking for the true, untouched heart of Central America, you’ll find it in Nicaragua. Nicaragua is where you need to be.
7. Two very different coasts
Nicaragua is lucky to have both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, each with its own charm. On the Pacific, places like San Juan del Sur, Popoyo, El Transito and Las Penitas are perfect for surfing, relaxing, and enjoying unforgettable sunsets. On the Caribbean side, Cayos Perlas and the Corn Islands are all about white sand, palm trees, and snorkeling in crystal-clear water. Whether you want adventure or peace, you’ll find it here.
8. A country that fits your budget
One of the best things about Nicaragua? You can have an incredible trip without spending a fortune. Imagine sipping a cold beer for just $1 or enjoying a hearty local meal for around $5. Nicaragua is actually the cheapest country in Central America. That means you can experience more, stay longer, and enjoy the best of everything without worrying too much about the cost. Nicaragua proves that amazing adventures don’t have to be expensive.
9. Lakes full of wonders
Nicaragua is known as the land of lakes and volcanoes. The most famous is Lake Nicaragua, the largest freshwater lake in Central America and one of the biggest in the world. Standing on its shores feels like looking out at the ocean, with waves, islands, and distant volcanoes rising on the horizon. What makes it truly unique, though, is that it’s home to freshwater bull sharks one of the only places on earth where they live! Around the lake, you’ll find the beautiful Isletas of Granada, hundreds of tiny islands perfect for boat tours, kayaking, or even staying overnight in a private eco-lodge. Whether you want adventure or tranquility, Nicaragua’s lakes are a magical part of the journey.
10. Feeling safe in Nicaragua
Before I came to Nicaragua, people asked me if it was safe and honestly, I had the same question. But after living and traveling here, I can tell you: I feel safer here than in many other countries in Central America. In León, I often walk home after dinner or grab an ice cream in the evening and wander through the lively streets without any worries. The atmosphere is relaxed, the people are kind, and there’s this genuine sense of community that makes you feel welcome. Compared to some of its neighbors, Nicaragua feels calm and peaceful, and that’s something I really value. For me, safety isn’t just about numbers or statistics, it’s about how you feel. And here, I feel at home.
Catch the plane and travel to Nicaragua
Nicaragua is raw, beautiful, and welcoming. It’s a place where nature feels wild, people feel like family, and every day brings a new adventure. Once you visit, you’ll understand why so many travelers fall in love with it and why I can’t stop sharing its magic.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and let Nicaragua surprise you.
