What to see in Nicaragua: 10 must-sees

Step through the threshold of the yellow Cathedral facing Central Park and stroll the cobblestone streets of Granada, one of the oldest colonial cities on the American mainland, founded in 1524. Visit the Municipal Market, where tropical fruits and crafts are sold, and climb the bell tower of the La Merced church for views of the red rooftops stretching all the way to Lake Cocibolca. End the day on Calle La Calzada, among colorful facades, cafés, and horse-drawn carts.

Immerse yourself in Managua with a stroll along the Lake Xolotlán malecón, where families gather at sunset and vendors offer vigorón and cacao. Visit the National Museum in the Palace of Culture, facing Revolution Square, and look at the facade of the old cathedral, damaged by the 1972 earthquake. Buy crafts and fruit at the Roberto Huembes Market, explore the Salvador Allende Port, and head up to Loma de Tiscapa park to see the silhouette of Sandino overlooking the city.

Momotombo, an active 1,610-meter volcano rising beside Lake Xolotlán, near León. Climb trails of volcanic rock and ash where the heat of the crater can still be felt. From the summit you take in the lake, the ruins of León Viejo, and the chain of volcanoes of the Los Maribios range. Look out for fumaroles, formations of solidified lava, and the vegetation that clings to the slopes. The ascent requires good physical fitness and usually begins before dawn to avoid the heat. Bring plenty of water and hire a local guide, as the routes are not fully marked.

Watch the orange glow of the lava lake in the Santiago crater, one of the few in the world accessible by vehicle all the way to the edge of the overlook. Ascend at dusk, when the shadows bring out the sulfurous smoke and the walls of the active volcano turn red. Follow the trail to the crater, listening for the roar rising from within, and cross the national park among solidified lava flows, parrot nests in the volcano's walls, and tropical dry forest home to coyotes, iguanas, and birds of prey.

Explore the crescent-shaped bay of San Juan del Sur on Rivas's Pacific coast and climb up to the Christ of the Mercy viewpoint to see the entire coastline. Surf at nearby beaches such as Maderas or Remanso, walk along the shore at sunset, and dine on fresh fish at the restaurants facing the malecón. The town retains a fishing-village feel with hostels, bars, and lively nightlife, making it a starting point for exploring Nicaragua's southern coast.

Wander the trails of the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve, in Río San Juan, as howler monkeys, toucans, and caimans move through the rainforest. Watch birds from the forest clearings, follow routes along mighty rivers, and learn about the work of the park rangers who protect jaguars and tapirs in one of Nicaragua's most biodiverse reserves. Access is arranged from San Carlos or El Castillo with local guides.

Wander the naves of the largest cathedral in Central America, in the heart of León, and climb up to its dome for views of the city and the volcanoes of the Los Maribios mountain range. Inside, admire the colonial architecture: arches, altarpieces, and the tomb of the poet Rubén Darío, marked by a stone lion. The cathedral, seat of the diocese and a gathering place for León's religious life, brings together history, spirituality, and sweeping views over the old town. Wear comfortable shoes for the rooftop steps and clothing appropriate for a place of worship.