Un Buen Viaje - Travel to Nicaragua

We're Different

The Journey

At ¡Un Buen Viaje! we're about the spirit of the journey. We take time to create connections with the country, know its people, and explore.

Let us guide you out of the travel book and into the country.

This is not your typical "package tour." Our travel groups are small, and timetables are flexible. We purposely don't set our itineraries in stone. Instead, we recognize that our guests (and Nicaragua itself!) run on unique schedules. As such, we plan ahead for all our journeys then take it one day at a time, always mindful of the country's rhythm and our travelers' desires.

You’ll meet people who live, work, and play in the places we visit. We'll visit their homes and communities. You'll learn about Nicaragua from the inside out, through the voices of its people, its complex history, and rich culture.

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See us on muchbetteradventures.com

Socially Responsible Travel

In addition to our organic style of travel, each year we contribute a percentage of our profits to a community-based, locally-run organization working towards a better future for all Nicaraguans. This annual commitment allows us to develop long-term relationships in Nicaragua and engage our travelers on a personal level by visiting works in progress. In 2009, we will be sponsoring children enrolled in Empowerment International's education program.

• Download our Responsible Travel Policy (PDF)

Treading Lightly in the Developing World

At ¡Un Buen Viaje!, we don't just think about what we can bring back from Nicaragua, but also what we can contribute. We want to become part of the fabric of everyday Nicaraguan life, so we live by simple but important rules:

  • We take time to learn about local history and culture.
  • We spend money on locally produced goods and services.
  • We use water and electricity sparingly.
  • We don’t give money or sweets to children. Instead, we give to recognized, local, socially conscious organizations.
  • We protect natural resources, and we never buy souvenirs or goods made from wildlife unless they are clearly sustainably produced.
  • We always ask before taking photos/videos of people.

Our passion for adventure has taken us around the world. But only Nicaragua keeps us coming back for more. So join us for an adventure you’ll never forget, in a country you’ll forever remember.

Please note: Nicaragua is an inexpensive country in which to travel, however, that does not mean it is cheap. We do not haggle to get the lowest, often unfair, price. We pay our way and then some. It is possible to be a vegetarian in Nicaragua but it is a boring experience. Additionally, if your expectations include hot water 24/7, air conditioning, and wireless Internet wherever you happen to be, this is not the tour for you. Tours are geared towards people who value a genuine travel experience.

Your Guide

Jessica Schugel has been traveling in Nicaragua since 2002. Peace Corps introduced her to this magical place she now considers her home. Jessica has covered a lot of ground in the past seven years, taking the time to learn and explore before putting together several itineraries that she feels offer her clients that extra something special that can’t be found by following the gringo trail. She will introduce you to her Nicaraguan friends and family, giving you a genuine glimpse into life as it is lived in the Land of Lakes and Volcanoes.

The Places You Will Go

We're Off!

Your adventure begins in a country full of incredible natural beauty, volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests and spectacular Spanish colonial cities. We will walk, hike, ride horseback and use local transportation; generally doing as the locals do. There's a lot to see and do, but we’ll go slowly, tread lightly, and really experience this special place. 

We offer affordable, privately led tours for individuals, families, and groups (4-6 people) with a variety of interests: photographers, bird watchers, hikers, kayakers, history buffs, foodies, coffee lovers. If you are looking for a custom itinerary or would like to choose your own travel dates, please e-mail us at info@ToursToNicaragua.com or call (612) 886-7516 to discuss the possibilities.

You can also choose from a few of our upcoming tours, specifically designed to participate in local festivities and based on our personal experience traveling and living in Nicaragua.


Heart of Nicaragua Tour

This tour takes us through the districts of Masaya, Granada, and Carazo – unique in Nicaragua for their artisans, European architecture, and preservation of precolonial Nicaraguan culture. Read about this adventure in detail (text drops down below).

January 15-23, 2011 (9 days) Fiesta San Sebastián
February 12-20, 2011 (9 days) Granada's Intl Poetry Festival
March 12-20, 2011 (9 days)
July 31-August 7, 2011 (9 days) Santo Domingo de Guzmán
August 13-21, 2011 (9 days) Granada Hípico
October 29-November 6, 2011 (9 days) Day of the Dead
November 19-27, 2011 (9 days) Toro Venado
Choose your own dates
US$1,899 per traveler

• Download registration (PDF)

Managua

First stop, the capital city of Managua. We’ll be waiting at the airport to welcome and guide you to your Managua hotel.

Our journey begins. We’ll set off through Managua’s busy streets. For first time visitors and history buffs alike, this city tour will tell the story of civil war, natural disaster, and survival. We’ll visit plazas, statues, and monuments. Our organic timetable may allow us to catch a performance at the Ruben Dario Theater or a traveling art exhibit at one of the museums.

The steep climb to Coyotepe, built as a fortress in 1893 to protect the land and later used as a prison, gives us some idea of just how much water and how many volcanoes make up the largest country in Central America.

Chocoyero Nature Reserve is a hardwood forest in the midst of pineapple farms–one of which we will visit for a first-hand glimpse into the life of a campesino. We’ll hike the park’s well maintained path to view its two waterfalls, one of which magically disappears into the earth below. The reserve was named for the incredible number of chocoyos (parakeets) that inhabit the cliff walls surrounding the falls. Perhaps we’ll catch a glimpse of the curious-looking guatuzo.

Masaya, City of Flowers & Los Pueblos Blancos

Volcán Masaya National Park was established in 1979 as Nicaragua’s first national park. We’ll spend time exploring the park’s several volcanoes and craters, including Volcán Masaya, one of the country’s most visibly active volcanoes. Wedged between the volcano cones is the relatively new Santiago crater, where at night you might catch a glimpse of incandescent rock and glowing magma.

There will be a moderately challenging hike up (and down) the rugged road from a small countryside town leading to a sweeping view of Volcán Masaya’s expansive domain. Halfway up, we’ll stop into the local paper weaving cooperative to see what new and inventive creations they are working on (a great place to stock up on gifts).

We’ll pass through San Juan de Oriente on our way to Catarina, where artists offer pottery-making demonstrations and sell their work alongside the narrow brick streets. In the hillside pueblo of Catarina is the Mirador, a vantage point that allows you to look out over Laguna de Apoyo, Granada, Lake Nicaragua, and the Island of Ometepe in the distance.

Diriamba (January)

Diriamba definitely has its own flavor, with a heavy emphasis on its people’s indigenous roots. In January, we’ll take part in the celebration of the Holy Martyr San Sebastian, which mixes traditional song and dance with colorful costumes that predate the Spanish arrival. Its mix of pre-Columbian ritual and Catholicism is as compelling as the vivid colors and distinctive music. The social satire, El Güegüense, depicts the indigenous peoples’ first impression of the Spanish, and is told through its intricate masks and costumes. Have your camera ready.

Granada, Colonial Jewel

We’ll give you time to explore the relaxed colonial city of Granada at your own pace. Granada is both the oldest city on the continent and the most developed tourist destination. Nowhere else in the country will you find such an array of excellent restaurants offering both local and international fare. Grab a horse-drawn taxi and ride along the shores of Lake Nicaragua. Walk the streets, tour the churches and museums, or Salsa dance at the disco.

Nearby, along the shores of Lake Nicaragua, an electric motorboat is waiting to guide us through the many water corredors around Las Isletas, an exotic tropical archipelago of 365 tiny islands of volcanic origin. There is the option, if everyone is up for it, to hop in kayaks and paddle our way around.

Volcán Mombacho rises nearly 4,400 feet above sea level, its summit hidden in a dense cloud forest.  We’ll hike around one of its forest-lined craters through an amazing ecosystem, home to colorful orchids and bromeliads, curious wildlife, fascinating insects, and over 160 species of birds. You'll also get a first-hand look at organic coffee farming, and a butterfly garden tour.

In the community of Granadilla, not far from Granada, we’ll spend the morning on a caminata (walking tour) of their farming cooperative. After a hearty homemade lunch we’ll set out on horseback for an alternative perspective of the landscape. Later, a group of young Nicaraguan boys and girls will show us how they make their unique seed jewelry, and you, too, will have the opportunity to create your own.


Cerros y Montañas Tour

This tour takes us north into the mountainous coffee country of Matagalpa and Jinotega then south to the lush rolling hills of the Masaya region. Read about this adventure in detail (text drops down below).

December 15-26, 20011 (12 days) Holidays
Choose your own dates
US$2,299 per traveler

• Download registration (PDF)

Managua

We’ll be waiting at the airport to welcome and guide you to your hotel in the capital city of Managua.

Map of Nicaragua

Our journey begins. We’ll set off through Managua’s busy streets. For first time visitors and history buffs alike, this city tour will tell the story of civil war, natural disaster, and survival. We’ll visit plazas, statues, and monuments. Our organic timetable may allow us to catch a performance at the Ruben Dario Theater or a traveling art exhibit at one of the museums.

The steep climb to Coyotepe, built as a fortress in 1893 to protect the land and later used as a prison, gives us some idea of just how much water and how many volcanoes make up the largest country in Central America.

Chocoyero Nature Reserve is a hardwood forest in the midst of pineapple farms–one of which we will visit for a first-hand glimpse into the life of a campesino. We’ll hike the park’s well maintained path to view its two waterfalls, one of which magically disappears into the earth below. The reserve was named for the incredible number of chocoyos (parakeets) that inhabit the cliff walls surrounding the falls. Perhaps we’ll catch a glimpse of the curious-looking guatuzo.

Matagalpa & Jinotega

From Managua we’ll head north to coffee country. The city of Matagalpa offers a respite from the bustling capital. The air is clean and crisp. The people are kind and generous. Here, pulperías (corner stores) are at home next to shops selling cowboy hats and horse saddles.

In town, there is a simple but interesting museum dedicated to Carlos Fonseca, founder of the FSLN (Sandinista National Liberation Front). And just outside of town hides a humble cacao factory where we can stock up on rum-infused chocolate balls.

We’ll hike the steep slopes surrounding the city for a spectacular view of this mountainous region. In nearby Jinotega, sitting at roughly 1,000 meters, we can hike once more, through an unabashedly colorful cemetery and up the hill, for another birds-eye view of this lush, green valley.

In the month of December we will have an opportunity to see first-hand how the coffee we drink is harvested and processed. A walk outside of the extremely pleasant, tiny town of San Ramon will give you a good sense of life in el campo (the country).

Masaya, City of Flowers & Los Pueblos Blancos

Volcán Masaya National Park was established in 1979 as Nicaragua’s first national park. We’ll spend time exploring the park’s several volcanoes and craters, including Volcán Masaya, one of the country’s most visibly active volcanoes. Wedged between the volcano cones is the relatively new Santiago crater, where at night you might catch a glimpse of incandescent rock and glowing magma.

There will be a moderately challenging hike up (and down) the rugged road from a small countryside town leading to a sweeping view of Volcán Masaya’s expansive domain. Halfway up, we’ll stop into the local paper weaving cooperative to see what new and inventive creations they are working on (a great place to stock up on gifts).

We’ll pass through San Juan de Oriente on our way to Catarina, where artists offer pottery-making demonstrations and sell their work alongside the narrow brick streets. In the hillside pueblo of Catarina is the Mirador, a vantage point that allows you to look out over Laguna de Apoyo, Granada, Lake Nicaragua, and the Island of Ometepe in the distance.

Diriamba (January)

Diriamba definitely has its own flavor, with a heavy emphasis on its people’s indigenous roots. In January, we’ll take part in the celebration of the Holy Martyr San Sebastian, which mixes traditional song and dance with colorful costumes that predate the Spanish arrival. Its mix of pre-Columbian ritual and Catholicism is as compelling as the vivid colors and distinctive music. The social satire, El Güegüense, depicts the indigenous peoples’ first impression of the Spanish, and is told through its intricate masks and costumes. Have your camera ready.

Granada, Colonial Jewel

We’ll give you time to explore the relaxed colonial city of Granada at your own pace. Granada is both the oldest city on the continent and the most developed tourist destination. Nowhere else in the country will you find such an array of excellent restaurants offering both local and international fare. Grab a horse-drawn taxi and ride along the shores of Lake Nicaragua. Walk the streets, tour the churches and museums, or Salsa dance at the disco.

Nearby, along the shores of Lake Nicaragua, an electric motorboat is waiting to guide us through the many water corredors around Las Isletas, an exotic tropical archipelago of 365 tiny islands of volcanic origin. There is the option, if everyone is up for it, to hop in kayaks and paddle our way around.

Volcán Mombacho rises nearly 4,400 feet above sea level, its summit hidden in a dense cloud forest.  We’ll hike around one of its forest-lined craters through an amazing ecosystem, home to colorful orchids and bromeliads, curious wildlife, fascinating insects, and over 160 species of birds. You'll also get a first-hand look at organic coffee farming, and a butterfly garden tour.

In the community of Granadilla, not far from Granada, we’ll spend the morning on a caminata (walking tour) of their farming cooperative. After a hearty homemade lunch we’ll set out on horseback for an alternative perspective of the landscape. Later, a group of young Nicaraguan boys and girls will show us how they make their unique seed jewelry, and you, too, will have the opportunity to create your own.


El Norte Tour

This tour takes us north to León and Matagalpa where we'll paddle estuary waters, climb an active volcano, and hike through lush coffee-laden hills.

December 3-11, 2011 (9 days) La Gritería
Choose your own dates
US$2,099 per traveler

• Download registration (PDF)


Ultramarathon Tour

This tour is for participants in the Fuego y Agua Ultramarathon (25k, 50k, 100k and a 2/3-person 4-stage 100k relay) on the island of Ometepe. Tour will be customized depending on the interests of the runner(s) and the amount of time they'd like to spend in the country. Contact us at info@ToursToNicaragua.com for more details.

February, 2012

Travel guides speak English, Spanish, and Chinese-Mandarin (upon request).

Nicaragua, Nicaragüita

Welcome to Nicaragua

At first glance, Nicaraguan life may appear chaotic. However, once you acclimate to the country’s everyday rhythms and routines, you’ll realize that Nicaraguans are seldom in a hurry.

Most Nicaraguans are open and friendly. You'll find people approachable and excited to talk with foreigners. Don't be surprised if they ask blunt questions about your age, marital status, or your opinions about their country! With a willingness to share, you will quickly make friends.

Nicaragua is making an effort to improve their tourism infrastructure, yet they still have relatively few visitors. This is great for those of us looking for something new and adventurous, but dislike huge tourist crowds.   

Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

Nicaragua is the largest Central American country. It's located between Honduras (to the north), and Costa Rica (to the south). The Caribbean Sea is to the east, and the Pacific Ocean is to the west.

With 120,000+ square kilometers of land area, Nicaragua is about the size of New York. It's dominated by two large lakes: Lake Managua (Xolotlan) and Lake Nicaragua (Colcibolca). Together, these lakes occupy nearly ten percent of the country’s surface area.

Nicaragua’s volcanoes form part of the “Ring of Fire” that encompasses most of the western coast of the Americas, wrapping north around into Japan and Indonesia. Six of these volcanoes are active, and many are climbable.

Nicaragua's system of 76 parks, reserves, and refuges cover more than 2 million hectares. These natural areas feature:

  • 176 mammal species
  • 676 bird species
  • 172 reptile species
  • 64 amphibian species
  • and an estimated 250,000 species of insects

During the rainy season/winter in May-October, temperatures range between 27C and 32C (81–90F). The dry season/summer, which runs from November-April, has temperatures between 30C and 35C (86-95F).  Higher altitudes often mean cooler temperatures.

The Country's People

Nicaraguan’s population is fast approaching six million, and almost a third live in Managua. Paradoxically, Nicaragua is both the least populous Central American nation and the fastest growing, at just over three percent annually.

Nicaragua's official language is Spanish. The Amerindian languages Miskito and Mayagna are spoken in the eastern regions where these populations are largest. Along the southeastern coast, English and Creole are spoken as much as Spanish.

The country doesn't endorse an official religion, but most Nicaraguans describe themselves as Catholic. The Moravian church, a Christian evangelical organization from Northern Europe, is also thriving on the Caribbean Coast and becoming more popular throughout the country.

Even though Nicaragua is now peaceful and safe, its people still harbor memories of revolution and war. As a result, Nicaraguans are politically conscious, and the country is vibrating with history and culture.

Arts and Culture

Nicaragua has been shaped by both natural and man-made disasters, and its people are passionate survivors. You'll find this passion woven into the country's art and culture.

In Nicaragua, poetry is very much a part of daily life. Poet, Rubén Darío, who experimented with free verse, symbolism and sensual imagery, paved the way for other internationally known poets and writers like Sergio Ramirez, Joaquin Chamorro, Father Ernesto Cardenal and Gioconda Belli. Read up before you visit!

Nicaraguan people also love their music. Every Nicaraguan knows the music of Carlos Mejia Godoy, who wrote songs about the revolutionary struggle that are still relevant today. In the clubs and streets, you'll hear salsa and merengue, as well as European and American pop and rock. 

And then there’s baseball. Nicaraguans are serious fans; we’ll catch a game when this national sport is in season.

Food and drink

When it comes to Nicaraguan fare – Nacatamales, Fritanga, Quesillo, Vigorón, Caballo Vayo, Wabul – the best advice is "try them all!” 

Much of Nicaragua's cuisine is based on corn. The legend of Quetzalcoatl, a mythical and historic figure considered the civilizer and guide of Mesoamerican people, says that he put a kernel of corn on the lips of the first woman and the first man, enabling them to think and work. Now that's brain food! Look for corn in cakes, spirits, sweets, drinks, and desserts.

You'll also get your fair share of “Gallo Pinto”, a mixture of refried red beans, white rice, onions, and peppers. Instead of a spoon or fork, you'll use large, thin, finely milled white corn tortillas as an edible utensil.

When it's time to imbibe, try the people’s drink of choice, Flor de Caña. Or compare Nicaragua's two national brands of beer. Pinolillo, is a native drink made of toasted corn and cocoa. It's so popular that the Nicaraguans call themselves “Pinoleros.” Pure fruit juice is almost impossible to find in Nicaragua but what you will find are refrescos, or frescos, which are fruit juices and spices mixed with water and sugar. The long list of choices may include pineapple, carrot, passion fruit, mandarin, lemonade, tamarind, mango, starfruit, papaya, pithaya (cactus fruit) and cacao (raw cocoa bean).

Nicaragua produces some of the world's finest premium coffee, however, most Nicaraguans are unable to afford the expensive roasts.

Listening, Reading, and Watching

Explore Nicaragua Even Before Leaving Home

Some suggested works include:

Books

  • Blood of Brothers - Stephen Kinzer
  • My Car in Managua - Forrest D. Colburn
  • Azul - Rubén Darío
  • The Jaguar Smile - Salman Rushdie
  • Nicaragua in Focus - Hazel Plunkett
  • Nicaragua: The Land of Sandino - Thomas W. Walker
  • The Country Under My Skin - Gioconda Belli
  • Understanding Central America - Thomas W. Walker
  • The Sandino Affair - Neill MacAulay
  • Bernardo and the Virgin - Silvio Sirias

Movies

  • Carla’s Song
  • La Yuma
  • El Ladroncito
  • The World is Watching
  • The World Stopped Watching

Online Resources

Read Our ¡Un Buen Viaje! Blog
Follow ¡Un Buen Viaje! on Twitter
Join ¡Un Buen Viaje! on Facebook
World Fact Book
Weather in Nicaragua
La Prensa - Newspaper
El Nuevo Diario - Newspaper
International phone calls
U.S. Embassy, Nicaragua
Learn Spanish Online
Book Your Flight / Buy Travel Insurance
What is Slow Travel?
Locally Sourced Holidays From Responsible Tour Operators

Through The Lens
Answers to Questions

How do I register for a tour?
Download our small group tour registration form here. Feel free to call us at (612) 886-7516 with any and all questions you have about traveling with ¡Un Buen Viaje!

Can I choose my own travel dates?
Yes. We have some set departure dates and itineraries that take advantage of some of the best Nicaragua has to offer, but we also custom design tours for individuals, families and small groups based on special interests (i.e., birding, hiking, kayaking, organic coffee farming, photography, gastronomy, history)

Is Nicaragua safe?
Yes, relatively speaking, Nicaragua is very safe. Nicaragua boasts one of the lowest crime rates in all of Latin America. We have always felt comfortable traveling through the country, but we are also always aware of our surroundings.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, you'll need a valid passport with an expiration date six months beyond your trip's return date.

Do I need a visa?
There is no visa required for U.S. citizens. You will be issued a tourist card (US$5 cash) valid for 90 days on arrival.

Do you book flights?
No. But we can recommend Pangaea Travel for both flight arrangements and travel insurance.

How will I know what to pack?
Once you have committed to a Tour, we will e-mail you all the necessary details: vaccinations, packing list, waivers, and country-specific information.

What about money?
You can use your credit card in Nicaragua, and access ATMs to replenish your cash supply. Actually, we recommend this method; it's easy and is smarter than carrying big wads of money. You'll need a four-digit PIN number from your credit card company. It’s also a good idea to inform your credit card company of your international travel destinations, and tell them how long you’ll be in those countries.

What about health issues?
Travel is relatively easy in Nicaragua. Water is purified, and food is generally prepared with careful attention to hygiene in most tourist restaurants and in the capital city. If a medical need arises, there are facilities in Managua. Un Buen Viaje! will take every step possible to keep you healthy and in the event that medical attention is needed we will ensure that you receive it promptly. If you have a medical concern while traveling outside of Managua, there are small hospitals and clinics staffed by medical personal.

Bring all prescription medications you will need, and don’t expect to be able to find refills while traveling. Most over-the-counter medicines are available in Nicaragua, but we suggest you pack whatever you anticipate needing. As with travel to most developing countries, it's a good strategy to bring Imodium, a general antibiotic, aspirin, and any other personal medical supplies. A small bottle of hand sanitizer is also recommended.

Mosquitoes are alive and well in Nicaragua so bring some mosquito repellent. Unfortunately, DEET is still the best repellent. Some people prefer to see a doctor before traveling to obtain medical information about precautions against malaria, which is recommended by the Center for Disease Control.

Most importantly, be sure that your health insurance will cover you internationally; we will be making sure through our waivers that everyone is covered internationally. We’ll also ask that you disclose special physical conditions, asthma issues, allergies, food allergies, or anything pertinent prior to departure.

Will I need any vaccinations?
No vaccinations are required for travel in Nicaragua, but we recommend a valid tetanus shot. It is also recommended by the Center for Disease Control that your hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria, and measles vaccinations are up-to-date.

How physically demanding are trips?
We generally travel at a moderate pace which allows you to enjoy yourself without becoming exhausted. Keep in mind that each group may include people with varied interests and abilities. If your group is physically able and interested, we have frequent opportunities for additional activities.

Even more important than your physical ability is a positive attitude and willingness to accept and embrace the different cultures you'll experience.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome on trips as long as they are open to new experiences and able to adjust to an unfamiliar diet.

Do I need to speak Spanish?
Spanish is the primary language spoken in Nicaragua, and very few people outside of the capital speak English. English is becoming more prevalent, but we think you'll enjoy your experience and better connect with Nicaragua's people if you're able to express simple phrases in Spanish. We recommend the following online resources: rojasspanish.com and lomastv.com.

When is the best time to travel?
November through February is a great time to experience Nicaragua. May through October is the rainy season, but don't let that turn you off, this is when the country is most vibrant! There are lively festivities in all corners of the country, all year long.

What type of communication methods will be available?
Calling home is easy and does not require a calling card. There is an abundance of phone centers where you can place a 15-minute international call for under US$2. Skype, one of the most inexpensive ways to communicate globally, is available at many the country’s numerous Internet cafés. We suggest creating a Skype account for yourself and family members before leaving home.

Questions? Contact Usinfo@ToursToNicaragua.com - (612) 386-0839

info@ToursToNicaragua.com - (612) 886-7516

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