Nicaragua takes its name from Nicarao, chief of the indigenous tribe then living around present-day Lake Nicaragua. A friendly and peaceful country that at times, received an undue share of negative press, Nicaragua is really one of the safest places to visit in Central America. With more than a decade of political stability, this democracy has moved steadily forward, leaving behind the war-torn ’80′s, remembered as one more chapter in it’s turbulent past.
Land of Lakes and Volcanoes
The nickname “land of lakes and volcanoes” describes this beautiful and fascinating country well. Two great lakes, Xolotlán (Lake Managua) and Cocibolca (Lake Nicaragua) occupy roughly 10 percent of the countries surface area, and are the largest in Central America. Running nearly parallel to the pacific coast is a chain of 58 volcanoes, six of which are active. The country also boasts the longest rivers in Central America, vast coastal lagoons, and hundreds of miles of sea coast. As the largest and lowest Central American country, Nicaragua is essentially an emerging “land bridge” between Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Centrally located between North and South America, Nicaragua has benefited from the astonishing blend of flora and fauna from the two continents.
Nicaragua Economy
Nicaragua is primarily an agricultural country, but construction, mining, and general commerce also have been expanding strongly during the last few years. Rapid expansion of the tourist industry has made it the nations third largest source of foreign exchange. Northern Nicaragua is currently primed for real estate investment.
Nicaragua Culture
Nicaragua’s cultural wealth is without a doubt one of its major attributes. Explore the richness of its culture, filled with beauty and tradition. Its beautiful colonial cities will transport you to a bygone era. Besides friendly smiles and Nicaraguan hospitality, another “Nica” feature is the festive spirit. Myths, dances, music, and ritual make up Nicaraguan folklore. People often say having visited Nicaragua that the people are the reason that they would consider returning, and we couldn’t agree more!
Nicaragua Biodiversity
The rich biodiversity of the country and its 76 protected areas make Nicaragua a great destination for eco-tourism. Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, covering 700,000 hectares, is the largest nature reserve. Nicaragua is home to numerous species including 6,500 vascular plants, 43 fish, 3,716 mollusk, 50 coral, 62 amphibians, 172 reptile, 676 bird, 251 mammal and 10 to 15 thousand insect. In all there are 1804 vertebrate species. If you so choose, your stay may include a visit to Padre Ramos Marine and Nature Reserve, where you will discover many of the various species of Nicaraguan biodiversity.
Nicaragua Currency
Nicaragua’s currency is the Cordoba, named after Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba, the Spanish founder of the colony of Nicaragua. The U.S. dollar is also an official currency in Nicaragua, and it is advisable that travelers from other nations bring currency in U.S. dollars. Major credit cards are increasingly accepted throughout the entire country. As of September, 2008, the exchange rate of Cordobas to U.S. Dollars was roughly 19 cordobas to 1 dollar.