Central America is a paradise for the active traveler. The region offers adventures such as world-class surfing in El Salvador, diving at the Bay Islands of Honduras and jungle treks in Costa Rica. However, for the ultimate in volcano hiking Nicaragua is the place to be.
The largest country in Central America, Nicaragua is also one of the most interesting to visit. Decades of exploitation by an oppressive regime and then a revolution and drawn-out civil war have left the country poor and underdeveloped. However, Nicaraguans, or Nicas as they call themselves, are incredibly friendly and welcoming. They understand how tourism can help their economy and are trying to find ways to develop this sector in a sustainable way.
Costa Rica, which borders the country to the south, has become one of the world's prime ecotourism destinations. The problem is that the large numbers of visitors are taking their toll on the environment. Moreover, the country has become quite expensive and in some areas you'll be hard pressed to find any kind of local character. Nicaragua, in contrast, is still very much unspoiled and is also one of the cheapest destinations in Central America.
Central America is located where a number of tectonic plates meet and sees a lot of seismic and volcanic activity. The Nicaraguan flag and coat of arms both feature a series of volcanoes. This isn't surprising, with volcanoes such an integral part of the landscape here. There are many to choose from if you want to take a closer look. Some are active, some feature crater lakes and some even offer the unique activity of volcano-boarding.
Mombacho and Masaya are the two most popular Nicaraguan volcanoes among visitors. This is partly because it's so easy to get to them. Mombacho lies near Granada while Masaya is about an hour's bus ride from this charming colonial city, which has everything a visitor may need, including a beautiful lakeside setting. Mombacho is dormant and Masaya is active.
After Granada, take a trip on Lake Nicaragua and spend a few days om the magical Ometepe Island. This island was formed by two volcanoes right next to each other, Madera and Concepcion. You can hike up either in a few hours and visit petroglyphs from ancient times. The views from the top are spectacular and afterwards you can relax on the beach or with a cup of locally grown coffee.
The best time to visit is during the winter months, which are the dry season in the tropical country. The weather is still hot but not as uncomfortable as in the rainy summer months. You'll need good hiking boots, insect repellent, plenty of water and sunscreen. Hikes can be arduous so it helps to be reasonably fit too.
It's best to do your hike in the company of a knowledgeable guide. There are many travel agencies in Granada that can arrange a guided tour of some of the region's volcanoes. Accommodation establishments on Ometepe Island will also be able to offer you the services of a reputable guide. It will help if you can speak a little Spanish but some guides are able to speak some English too.
The largest country in Central America, Nicaragua is also one of the most interesting to visit. Decades of exploitation by an oppressive regime and then a revolution and drawn-out civil war have left the country poor and underdeveloped. However, Nicaraguans, or Nicas as they call themselves, are incredibly friendly and welcoming. They understand how tourism can help their economy and are trying to find ways to develop this sector in a sustainable way.
Costa Rica, which borders the country to the south, has become one of the world's prime ecotourism destinations. The problem is that the large numbers of visitors are taking their toll on the environment. Moreover, the country has become quite expensive and in some areas you'll be hard pressed to find any kind of local character. Nicaragua, in contrast, is still very much unspoiled and is also one of the cheapest destinations in Central America.
Central America is located where a number of tectonic plates meet and sees a lot of seismic and volcanic activity. The Nicaraguan flag and coat of arms both feature a series of volcanoes. This isn't surprising, with volcanoes such an integral part of the landscape here. There are many to choose from if you want to take a closer look. Some are active, some feature crater lakes and some even offer the unique activity of volcano-boarding.
Mombacho and Masaya are the two most popular Nicaraguan volcanoes among visitors. This is partly because it's so easy to get to them. Mombacho lies near Granada while Masaya is about an hour's bus ride from this charming colonial city, which has everything a visitor may need, including a beautiful lakeside setting. Mombacho is dormant and Masaya is active.
After Granada, take a trip on Lake Nicaragua and spend a few days om the magical Ometepe Island. This island was formed by two volcanoes right next to each other, Madera and Concepcion. You can hike up either in a few hours and visit petroglyphs from ancient times. The views from the top are spectacular and afterwards you can relax on the beach or with a cup of locally grown coffee.
The best time to visit is during the winter months, which are the dry season in the tropical country. The weather is still hot but not as uncomfortable as in the rainy summer months. You'll need good hiking boots, insect repellent, plenty of water and sunscreen. Hikes can be arduous so it helps to be reasonably fit too.
It's best to do your hike in the company of a knowledgeable guide. There are many travel agencies in Granada that can arrange a guided tour of some of the region's volcanoes. Accommodation establishments on Ometepe Island will also be able to offer you the services of a reputable guide. It will help if you can speak a little Spanish but some guides are able to speak some English too.
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire