Introduction
Nicaragua has three main eco-regions: Pacific, Central and Atlantic; the Pacific region is home to volcanoes, lakes, tropical forests, beaches and mangrove systems; the Central region is home to mountains, rivers and agricultural areas; and the Atlantic region contains rainforests, marine lagoons, mangrove systems and coral reefs. Tourists are well catered for in these areas.
The centre of the capital was completely destroyed by an earthquake in December 1972 and there was further severe damage during the civil wars of 1978-1979. The Government has now decided that it will rebuild the old centre, adding parks and recreational facilities. In the old centre of Managua, the National Palace and the Cathedral are excellent examples of colonial architecture. There are several museums of note in Managua, one of the most interesting of which is Las Huellas de Acahualinca which houses the site where 9000-year-old footprints were found – testimony to Nicaragua’s pre-historic past. There are several volcanic crater lagoons in the environs of Managua – centres of watersports and residential development with boating, fishing and picnicking facilities. Laguna de Xiloa is the most popular of these lagoons. Boats can be hired on the shores of Lake Managua for visiting the still-smoking Momotombo volcano and the shore villages. On Tiscapa Lagoon, there is a recreation centre.
This is the intellectual capital of Nicaragua, with a university, religious colleges, the largest cathedral in Central America and several colonial churches. A number of projects are currently underway that will highlight the historical and cultural roots of the city.
Located at the foot of the Mombacho volcano, Granada has many beautiful buildings and has faithfully preserved its Castilian traditions. The cathedral has been rebuilt in neo-classical style. Also of interest are the Church of La Merced, the Church of Jalteva and the fortress-church of San Francisco.
One hour’s drive from Managua are Masachapa and Pochomil beaches. Montelimar Beach Resort is the largest of its kind in Central America. A visit to the El Velero beach is recommended. On the Caribbean coast, there are a number of small ports, the most important of which is Bluefields. From here, one can get a boat to the beautiful, coral-fringed Corn Islands (Islas del Maiz), the larger of which is a popular Nicaraguan holiday resort with surfing and bathing facilities that make it ideal for tourists. The Pacific coast has a number of fine beaches, including El Coco, Marsella, Ocotal, San Juan del Sur and many others which are located in the south of Nicaragua in the department of Rivas. These beaches are distinguished by their unique and beautiful surroundings, and a number of touristic developments are underway in this region.
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