Nicaragua

Granada

There is a continuous fight among travelers for the question: Which one is more charming? Granada or Leon?
One thing can be said without a doubt about Granada – the main plaza and Parque Central are absolutely astonishing, giving you the chance to feel as if you are in another century.

Granada is the oldest colonial city founded in Central America located on the north western shore of Lago Nicaragua (Lake Nicaragua) and lies at the foot of Mombacho Volcano.
Granada is a city full of history, something that you will probably notice while walking through the streets, courtyards, churches, etc.

All the historical center is well preserved and maintained.
So enjoy the walks, enjoy the wonderful restaurants, the good nightlife and just sometimes stop to relax and appreciate this unique city.

What to do?

·    Tour the small islands created by the eruption of Mombacho Volcano or climb on the volcano itself and enjoy the view over the islands.

·    Take a bus to Masaya. Just behind the Bus terminal there is a huge colorful market (it should be the last stop where the bus from Granada drops you). You can walk there for hours – it is like a labyrinth. Stop and eat in the market, buy some second hand cloths or just get inside and wander around to feel how nice and welcoming the locals are.
There is also a smaller much more posh and fancy market for older tourists down the road. It is way too expensive for backpackers' budget, besides, most of the things you'll see over there, you might find in the big market for a much cheaper price anyway.

·    Consider going to Laguna de Apoyo just one hour from Granada.
This lagoon is in a beautiful valley and considered to be one of the best nature reserves in Nicaragua. This large ecosystem is just a wonderful place to spend few days and to enjoy the nature surrounds you.

·    At night it's nice to go out to the places on the shore of Lake Nicaragua.

Where to stay?

·    Bearded Monkey – The dormitories are big but the large patio with hammocks gives you enough space to mingle or to rest. The free internet is a great plus and the atmosphere rocks.

·    Hostal Oasis – Higher class hostel. Less crowded than the Bearded Monkey which is a plus and a minus. A very good option if the Bearded Monkey is full.

·    A nice place to stay in Laguna de Apoyo is the Monkey Hut run by the same owners of the Bearded Monkey in Granada itself.

Special tips:

You might get addicted to Granada. It is normal J