The revolutions and counterrevolutions ended more than a decade ago, yet many in the wider world continue to imagine Nicaragua as a dangerous place. The reality of today's Nicaragua is very different. Although few would call it a thriving country—unemployment is high and infrastructure is modest at best—it is politically stable and is making efforts to draw more foreign visitors. A number of new hotels have opened in the capital, Managua, and the nation's first world-class beach resort opened in 2004. The rising interest in ecotourism is drawing travelers eager to see Nicaragua's natural attractions. Indeed, the country contains far more lakes than the rest of Central America (including the very large Lake Nicaragua), and there are also a number of protected areas and nature preserves. The Masaya Volcano National Park features one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the region. Budget travelers will be attracted by Nicaragua's relatively low prices, and almost everyone will be impressed by the friendly and hospitable people.
Still, tourism in Nicaragua can be tough because oRead More ... f its limited (if improving) travel resources—hotels, transportation and quality roads. Crime, although no worse than in many other Central American countries, does remain a problem in some areas. Given these potential concerns, we recommend seeing the country as part of an organized tour.< Show Less
