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.
Nicaragua is the region's largest country. It's also one of the most fascinating. In spite of their turbulent history and widespread poverty, Nicaraguans are incredibly friendly and love making visitors feel welcome and safe. They are discovering the possibilities of tourism as a way to earn foreign income and are determined not to make the same mistakes as Costa Rica.
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.
One of the best cities to base yourself in is Granada. It's a pleasant place with stunning colonial architecture and cobbled streets. There are many establishments that cater to tourists. Most importantly, from here it's easy to get two the country's two most popular volcanoes. Mombacho is dormant and is located near the city. Masaya is about an hour or so away and is active.
Two other volcanoes that are easy to climb are Madera and its twin Concepcion. Together they form Ometepe Island, a stunning piece of paradise in Lake Nicaragua. Allow at least three days on the island so that you can explore the beaches and coffee plantations and have time to climb each volcano. The hikes are strenuous but you'll be rewarded with stunning views and fascinating petroglyphs.
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.
When you plan a volcano hike, think about investing in the services of a local guide. This is not only for a more enriching experience but for safety as well. In Granada, simply ask at any of the local travel agencies. On Ometepe, many hotels will be able to provide a guide.
Nicaragua is the region's largest country. It's also one of the most fascinating. In spite of their turbulent history and widespread poverty, Nicaraguans are incredibly friendly and love making visitors feel welcome and safe. They are discovering the possibilities of tourism as a way to earn foreign income and are determined not to make the same mistakes as Costa Rica.
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.
One of the best cities to base yourself in is Granada. It's a pleasant place with stunning colonial architecture and cobbled streets. There are many establishments that cater to tourists. Most importantly, from here it's easy to get two the country's two most popular volcanoes. Mombacho is dormant and is located near the city. Masaya is about an hour or so away and is active.
Two other volcanoes that are easy to climb are Madera and its twin Concepcion. Together they form Ometepe Island, a stunning piece of paradise in Lake Nicaragua. Allow at least three days on the island so that you can explore the beaches and coffee plantations and have time to climb each volcano. The hikes are strenuous but you'll be rewarded with stunning views and fascinating petroglyphs.
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.
When you plan a volcano hike, think about investing in the services of a local guide. This is not only for a more enriching experience but for safety as well. In Granada, simply ask at any of the local travel agencies. On Ometepe, many hotels will be able to provide a guide.
About the Author:
If you would love to go volcano hiking Nicaragua is the ultimate destination. Book your South American tour today by referring to this travel site at http://www.karmanicatours.com.
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