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Top 13 Things to Do in Managua, Managua
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Top things to do in Managua
#1Ometepe Island Full-Day Tour with Lunch
Take an unforgettable journey to one of the most beautiful places in Nicaragua, Ometepe Island. Home to 2 volcanoes – Conception and Maderas – it is the worl...
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#2Somoto Canyon River Ride & Village Tour
Venture to the Somoto Canyon National Monument – a dramatic, Miocene-era canyon that was undiscovered until 2004 – for a spectacular boat ride through the ca...
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#3Full-Day Colonial Granada & Natural Wonders of Nicaragua Private Tour
Explore the best of Nicaragua on a full-day guided tour of the colonial city of Granada, the lush hillsides and steaming craters of Masaya Volcano National P...
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#4Colonial León & San Jacinto Volcanic Fields
Set out from Managua for a day-long private tour of colonial León's fading grandeur, an exploration of its renowned museums and art galleries, and a trek thr...
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#5Managua City Explorer
Put your finger on the urban pulse of Managua with a private tour of its historical sites, architectural landmarks and controversial cathedral, then chat abo...
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#6Mombacho Volcano Canopy Zipline Private Tour
Journey to the Mombacho Volcano National Preserve on this thrilling adventure tour that combines zip lining and nature. Feel a rush of adrenaline as you go f...
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#7Full-Day of Leisure at San Juan del Sur Beach
Relax under the tropical sun as you enjoy a day at the wonderful Pacific beach of San Juan del Sur. You can dine on delicious seafood at a well-known restaur...
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#8Full-Day Tour of Colonial Granada & Lake Nicaragua Island Cruise
Enjoy one of the most popular tours in Nicaragua as you visit Granada and take a cruise on beautiful Lake Nicaragua. On this guided day trip, journey just 45...
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#9Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve & Catarina Viewpoint Full-Day Tour
Admire the unique landscape of Nicaragua with a visit to a volcano reserve and take in the scenic vista from Catarina viewpoint, one of the highest hills sur...
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#10Private Granada Tour & Lake Nicaragua Boat Cruise
Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or already staying in laid-back, beachy San Juan del Sur, an outing to historic Granada is the perfect way to soak up ...
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Things to Do in Managua
Originally a small fishing village on the lake shore, Managua’s fate was changed forever when the warring cities of Leon and Granada compromised by electing a third party to be capital. Managua was chosen and has since grown to become the second biggest city in Central America. It may not be as pretty as the two colonial gems but once you find your way around you’ll discover a city bursting with poetry and pride. There are hidden tropical courtyards, interesting street art and warm welcomes. In many ways it’s the perfect summary of Nicaragua as a whole - energetic, fun, boisterous and with plenty of charm.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Managua
City Centre - Much of the centre was destroyed by a huge earthquake in 1972 and is yet to be rebuilt but you can still explore this unique district. Discover crumbling cathedrals and thought provoking street art.
Tiscapa Lagoon - This freshwater lagoon lies in the heart of an extinct volcano, where you can also find a zip line to carry you out over the water.
Jorge Dimitrov - You need to be a little careful after dark but this up and coming area is conveniently located for the city’s best transport links and budget hotels.
Chocoyero El Brujo - This nature reserve is located not too far from the city and gives a glimpse into some of Nicaragua’s incredible tropical wildlife and jungle terrain.
Things to See in Managua
One of Managua’s most popular landmarks is the Rotonda Ruben Dario, a beautiful fountain that’s lit up at night. You can also visit the New Cathedral, completed in 1993, which is close by. Step back in time at the Huellas de Acahualinca, a set of 6,000 year old footprints that were preserved under several metres of earth by a volcanic eruption. As far as sights go, in Managua it’s more about enjoying the bustle of the city, with its markets and street vendors. As a relatively new capital, it doesn’t quite have the colonial history of some of the other cities but if you love street art, and discovering how a chaotic and modern Latin American city works, this is the place for you.
Things to Do in Managua
Take a city tour, which will very much help you negotiate a city that has very few street signs and can be very confusing. If you’re in the mood for a flutter, then check out one of the many casinos that have opened here in recent years. Nicaraguans love poetry, so look out for where readings are taking place and enjoy a cultural night out or keep your eyes out for festivals that happen throughout the year. If you want to get out of the city, head to one of the nearby beaches or volcanic lagoons for a refreshing dip.
