Nicaragua looks quite modest compared with the numerous monuments of the Mayan culture of Guatemala and the rich national parks of Costa Rica. Nearly all the monuments of ancient civilizations have been destroyed by earthquakes, wars, and revolutions. Spanish colonizers have destroyed much of the country’s history. Still, no visitor will remain indifferent to the beautiful nature of the country, its majestic volcanoes, clear lakes, picturesque mountain landscapes and vast tracts of tropical forests. These are the main attractions of Nicaragua. The nature of the country is extremely picturesque, offering the travelers a wide variety of landscapes, little affected by the influence of civilization. The ruins of ancient Indian civilizations in the country are quite rare. Many of them are scattered across the country, and the vast majority are still hidden under the canopy of lush rainforest.

The capital of Nicaragua stretches along the southern shore of Lake Managua. It is densely populated, as a quarter of the inhabitants of the country live here. The main sights are located around the Plaza de la Republica, including the magnificent cathedral on the shore of the lake, which was renovated with the help of foreign sponsors, and is now open to the public. Near the cathedral, there is the newly renovated Palacio Nacional.

A complex of buildings of the National Assembly and the Presidential Palace symbolize the authority of the local government. Across the capital, one can find an abundance of shopping centers and markets. The new shopping center, called Metrosentro, is considered one of the most modern in the region. Managua has a huge number of hotels, restaurants, bars and cinemas, and the nearby Altamira district boasts many fine restaurants and cafes. Right in the city there are several lagoons and a hot volcanic crater lake with mineral water.

Picturesque Masaya volcano to the south of the capital is surrounded by a ring of smaller volcanoes and thermal springs. Legend has it that the Indians used to throw young women into the boiling lava to appease the goddess of fire Chakitike living in this area. The Spaniards believed that this was the entrance to the underworld. Nearby one will see the city of Masaya, known as a recognized center of traditional crafts and the best place to purchase famous local hammocks, rocking chairs, traditional Indian clothing and shoes.

Laguna de Hilo is a stunningly beautiful crater lake to the north of the city; it is often called a 'number one tourist attraction.' At El Trapiche, the tourists will see huge outdoor swimming pools surrounded by gardens and restaurants. It is the favorite holiday destination of the local elite. Nearby is another center of traditional crafts, the town of Peblo Blancas.

Another pride of the country is Granada. Several times attacked by pirates, Granada continued to grow and became a financial capital of the country. Today, there are noteworthy houses La Casa de los Leones, the first Spanish city church Iglesia de San Francisco, the La Polvora 'white fortress', and the Museum of Archaeology and History.

The main attraction of the central region of the country is Lago de Nicaragua, the largest freshwater lake in Latin America. Its ecosystem is truly unique, and fans of fishing will have a nice time here. No less interesting is the island of Isla de Ometepe, which lies near the western shore of Lake Nicaragua. The island has a wonderfully fertile volcanic soil, the magnificent scenery, splendid nature, and surprisingly quiet atmosphere. In addition, one can also examine the petroglyphs in the area of Maderas volcano.

Check the list of Nicaragua travel agencies to request a circuit around the country and a free travel quote. Nicaraguan tour operators are the local travel industry professionals with vast experience in organizing tours and itineraries. They can also help you organize separate activities, for example, book a flight, make a hotel reservation, etc.

Managua View