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Nicaragua 17 NICARAGUA "Land of Lakes and Volcanoes." In a subcontinent filled with both, it's a mark of the country's extraordinary beauty that the ones found here attract more attention than those of its neighbors. The largest country in Central America, 20% of the land is unblemished beaches, green forests that shelter over 700 types of birds, and waters rich with whales, easily accessed from the capital of Managua. Two of the largest lakes in the country buttress this city along with three remarkable preserves, where land--bound wildlife is even easier to spot. In the Chocoyero Nature Reserve alone, hummingbirds and motmots flit freely among howler monkeys, capuchins, agouti, green parakeets and 60 other types of animals. Just south is colonial Granada, known for its otherworldly Moorish architecture, Andalusian influence, and ecological treasures that include the Mombacho Volcano and its cloud forest; the 300-plus Isletas in Lake Nicaragua; and the Zapatera, where petroglyphs and statues stand tall in stone. In the San Juan del Sur area, near the Costa Rican border, it's surfers of all levels that stand with pride, dotting the waves this region has become known for. Gigante, characterized by fishing villages and coastal hotels, boasts fresh seafood and surfing camps; sunsets and cowboys; yogis and hikers, all seeking peace in raw, untouched shores. Windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving, and golfing make Montelimar another active vacationer's paradise, while the old home of Nicaragua's ruling family welcomes guests as a casino in present day, proving no end to the adventure in Nicaragua. Playa Gigante Tegucigalpa H O N D U R A S C O S TA R I C A EL SALVADOR N I C A R A G U A Golfo de Fonseca P A C I F I C O C E A N Caribbean Sea Managua Lago de Managua Lago de Nicaragua Bluefields Rivas San Juan del Sur Granada Masaya Matagalpa Estelí San Carlos Casares Pochomil Puerto Sandino Corinto Potosi Jinotega Somoto Ocotal Las Manos El Rama Juigalpa Siuna Rosita Puerto Cabezas R í o G r a n d e d e M a t a g a l p a Islas de Maíz Bahía Punta Gorda El Espino Chinandega Rí o C oc o o Se gov i a R í o K u k a l a y a R í o B a m b an a León Laguna de Perlas Isla de Ometepe 50 0 50 miles 0 km Guacalito VACATIoN ENhANCINg TouRS In a country whose diversions are action-packed, it only makes sense that your itinerary should be, too. Arrange your tours ahead of time for maximum adventure. Adventure to Ometepe Island Canopy Tour & Mombacho Reserve Colonial Granada & Sunset Kayaking in Lake Nicaragua Folkloric Thursday Night at Masaya Horseback Riding Managua City Tour Montibelli Tropical Forest Consult your travel agent for more details on these and other tours. Transfers: A complete selection of private transfers is available.

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