Nicaragua is a beautiful country brimming with wide stretches of beaches, active volcanoes, and Nicaragua colonial history. Although Nicaragua vacations are becoming increasingly popular, this country hasn't always been a hotspot for travelers. Throughout Nicaragua history there's been a series of wars, natural disasters, and government corruption that made travel to country dangerous. Nicaraguans are now enjoying a time of peace and prosperity, and the entire country is enjoying the newfound money that Nicaragua tourism is bringing in.

Throughout the history of Nicaragua, the western Pacific coast of the country has been attractive to settlers--even before the Spanish settled Nicaragua. Even today, the west coast is where people go to enjoy large beaches for surfing and snorkeling. The tropical vegetation of the western part of Nicaragua is also home to coffee farms and thousands of animal species. A fabulous way to learn about the history of Nicaragua coffee is by taking a trip through local coffee farms

When the Spanish first settled Nicaragua in the 1500s, they introduced many new traditions, one of which was the Catholic faith. Today, the majority of Nicaraguan people are practicing Catholics; they celebrate their traditions with a variety of events and festivals that take place year-round in cities such as Leon, Chinandega, and Leon. A trip to the city of Granada will reveal some of the oldest and most interesting churches in the rich history of Nicaragua architecture. The colorful roofs of the colonial-style churches stand taller than all other buildings in Granada. Enter the churches and you'll see intricate architectural details such as bright blue Spanish tiles and gold-plated alters.

Nicaragua Map

Managua is another city rich in Nicaragua history and culture. Learn more about Nicaraguan history by visiting the National Museum of Nicaragua. On display at this fascinating museum are various documents telling the story of the history of Nicaragua, along with artifacts from the indigenous people of the Mosquito Coast on the eastern side of Nicaragua.

On your visit to Nicaragua, be sure to check out the central markets, called or Mercados, in cities such as Leon and Managua. A city's central market is the place where Nicaraguans go shopping for fresh produce, meat, and spices. The mercados are also an important piece of a living Nicaragua history: they form the very heart of social and economic activity in each city. Today, you can buy much more than fresh produce at Nicaragua markets--browse the selection for the perfect souvenir such as Nicaraguan hammocks, ceramics, or handicrafts. Another important part of Nicaraguan history is the food, and these markets are great places to sample the flavors of Nicaraguan cuisine at an inexpensive price. Important staples here include grilled meats, corn, beans, and delicious fried plantains.