In the waters of Lake Nicaragua lie over 400 islands. The largest of these, Ometepe, is also its most frequently visited. Spanning 16 miles long by 8 miles wide, it was formed by the lava from years of eruptions by the two volcanoes, Madera and Concepcion, which earned it its name (Ometepe comes from Nahuatl words meaning “two mountains”).
Not only is the island itself quite the sight to behold (picture two volcanoes rising up out of a lake), it also offers opportunities for exploration, relaxation, or a quick history lesson. Home to just a few small settlements and coffee plantations, it also contains some of the only cloud forests in the Pacific region of the country.
Here are a few things you should be sure not to miss on your next trip to Lake Nicaragua:
Kristian Golding
1. Moyogalpa
Your boat or ferry from the mainland will likely bring you to the island’s main port of Moyogalpa, which means “Place of Mosquitoes.” The city itself offers a few hotels and restaurants, as well as places where you can rent a vehicle or book a tour. It’s also the place to access the Concepcion volcano.
As you hike to its 5,280 foot peak, you’ll pass through forests full of exotic birds, insects, and several species of monkeys. At the top, you’ll enjoy great views of the lake and surrounding islands, provided that the clouds don’t block your view. Although the volcano is an active one, it hasn’t erupted since 1957. Don’t be alarmed by the tremors or occasional expulsions of gases. The locals will reassure you that they’re quite common.
B. Faucet
2. Charco Verde
In the shadow of Concepcion sits the Charco Verde area with its shady beaches and tranquil lagoon. The sand is dark with volcanic matter, and the lagoon is emerald green due to an abundance of algae. The waters are great for swimming, and the ecological reserve is home to many rare species.
The area is rich in history, including myths about the lagoon itself. Locals tell of the demonic Chico Largo who lives beneath its waters and materializes on the local paths, where he lures visitors into making an evil pact. Charco Verde is also home to the La Ceiba Museum, which contains many pre-Columbian artifacts that are native to the island.
Céline Colin
3. Altagracia
Second in size to Moyogalpa is the town of Altagracia, which lies on the northeastern slope of the volcano Concepcion. More authentic than its larger counterpart, Altagracia has a central park with a historic church and a wooden bell tower. The church’s grounds contain stone idols that have been found throughout the island.
Altagracia also gives access to Playa Santo Domingo, one of the island’s top vacation destinations. Located on the northeastern side of the island, the beach enjoys a constant breeze. The water, while generally choppy, is warm and shallow. There are established hotels and restaurants, and the beaches are home to over 40 species of birds.
MalmBerrys
4. Maderas
Unlike nearby Concepcion, the volcano Maderas is not active. Its base has coffee plantations, which give way to a thick cloud forest at its higher elevations. At its 4,573 foot peak, you’ll have a view of the lagoon that has formed inside the volcano’s crater. Its still waters and the mysterious mist that hangs over them make for a swimming experience like no other.
Due to the plant and animal life, as well as some ancient petroglyphs carved into its rock formations, much of the area around Maderas is designated as a nature reserve. Howler and capuchin monkeys, butterflies, orchids, and ferns grace its slopes. The volcano and its surrounding areas also sparked the formation of the Maderas Rainforest Conservancy, which works to preserve Mesoamerican forests.
Lee Hamilton
5. Merida and San Ramon
The cities of Merida and San Ramon lie just to the south of volcano Maderas. Merida is a small fishing and farming community that also offers a few rustic lodging facilities and kayak tours to the Rio Istian, an aquatic habitat on the island’s isthmus, and the Monkey Islands, which are home to troops of capuchin and spider monkeys. Beware the capuchins, which can bite.
Nearby San Ramon is home to a large waterfall that cascades down from the southern slope of the volcano. A 1.5 to 2 hour hike leads to the 164-foot waterfall, which fuels a hydro-electric plant before ultimately being collected and bottled as pure “Maderas Volcano Water.” Both Merida and San Ramon also have a number of petroglyphs.
Make sure your next trip to Lake Nicaragua includes a visit to Ometepe Island, where you can enjoy these and other sites full of nature, history, and mystery.
Katie Laird
Like some of its Central American neighbors, Nicaragua is another great place where you can live on much less than your cost of living in the U.S. And without sacrificing your quality of life in the slightest.
Take for example food costs in Nicaragua. While prices do vary according to where you live–and for that matter where you shop–buying food in Nicaragua can represent a considerable savings over what your grocery bill would run back home in the States, even as much as a 60% discount.
Now in order to see this kind of savings in your own household budget, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. But first, have a look for yourself at some of the bargains you can find in Nicaraguan markets and grocery stores, compared with the price of the same item in the U.S.
|
Item |
Nicaragua |
U.S. |
%Discount |
|
1 dozen eggs |
$1.35 |
$3.18 |
58% |
|
Filet mignons steaks, 1 lb |
$3.38 |
$19.99 |
83% |
|
1 liter milk |
$1.25 |
$3.19 |
61% |
|
Bananas, 12 |
$ .42 |
$2.36 |
82% |
|
Laundry soap |
$1.37 |
$5.45 |
75% |
|
Deodorant |
$1.89 |
$3.19 |
41% |
|
Watermelon |
$1.27 |
$5.99 |
79% |
|
Pineapple |
$ .85 |
$3.99 |
79% |
|
Rice |
$ .60 |
$2.82 |
79% |
|
Cheese, large round (16oz.) |
$1.90 |
$6.99 |
73% |
|
Organic lettuce, 1 head |
$3.40 |
$1.69 |
-100% |
|
Ice cream |
$ .52 |
$1.98 |
74% |
|
Nacho chips |
$ .78 |
$2.68 |
71% |
|
Fresh bread, 2 loaves |
$2.92 |
$4.18 |
30% |
|
Chocolate bar |
$ .82 |
$1.80 |
54% |
|
Shrimp, 1 lb |
$4.65 |
$8.99 |
48% |
|
Chicken breasts, 1 kg frozen |
$4.20 |
$6.15 |
32% |
|
Mahi mahi, 1 lb |
$2.96 |
$7.99 |
63% |
|
Coca-cola, 12 cans |
$5.07 |
$3.98 |
-27% |
|
Total |
$39.60 |
$96.59 |
60% |
As you may have noticed, not all food costs in Nicaragua are less than in the U.S. In fact some things, like Coca-Cola for example, are actually more. This is true of a number of name brand, imported items.
The good news is that many common U.S. labels are available, if you’re someone who just can’t live without your specific brand of breakfast cereal or barbeque sauce. However, you may pay slightly more than you would for the local equivalent. Our advice? Try the domestic varieties. You might be surprised to find that the taste is comparable or even better than what you’re used to.
Another great way to save is by avoiding the temptation to do any one-stop shopping. While there are a few stores that carry most everything you need, they may not have the best prices on everything. Shop at supermarkets for things like spices and other staples. Drinks, from cerveza to bottled water, are cheapest if you buy them directly from the beverage distributor. Go to markets or food carts for produce.
Speaking of produce, it’s one of the best things about living and eating in Nicaragua. Because of the climate, many fruits and vegetables can be grown almost year-round. They’re fresh, often organic, and they’re locally grown. And mangos grow almost everywhere in Nicaragua. You can pick them up off the ground, just like you would an acorn. Hey, it’s hard to beat free!
Because of the availability of fresh produce, fish, and other healthy options (as well as the absence of much of the junk food that’s common in North America), many expats in Nicaragua say they’ve also seen as much improvement in their health and weight as they have in their food budgets.
So, in order to save on your food costs in Nicaragua, learn to shop smart. Embrace the local brands and the local markets. Your wallet will thank you, as will your waistline.
Walking down the cobblestone streets of Granada, Nicaragua past the brightly painted colonial buildings, wandering through the burgeoning markets, and watching the sunset from the top of the Merced Tower, it’s easy to understand why many cite it as their favorite city in Central America.
Pete Schnell
The small size and walkability could fool you into thinking it is a town, that is until you taste some of the incredible food and soak up all of the culture. Situated along Lake Nicaragua and resting below the towering Mombacho volcano you can find yourself from city to nature in minutes. For those looking for first world comforts, exciting culture, and nature adventures, Granada is an ideal place to live.
Strong Expat Community
With affordable investment opportunities, plenty of volunteer programs, Spanish language schools, and research programs for teachers, environmentalists, and anthropologists, there are many established expats living and thriving in Granada already. This community is well-connected and dedicated towards improving the living standards for the outlying community.
Expat hubs like The Garden Cafe with organic healthy fare and Pure Spa with yoga, pilates, and healthy communal meals, organize volunteering events and connect individuals with the greater community. Moving abroad can be a much more seamless experience when a well-established, accessible expat community already exists.
Low Cost of Living
Nicaragua is one of the most affordable countries in Latin America and that becomes apparent the moment you step foot in Granada. A one hour massage in a reputable spa costs $20, a full breakfast in an organic cafe is less than $4, and large beautiful colonial homes rent for less than $1000 per month.
With this low cost of living and accessibility to many luxury services provided by international restaurants, full service spas, and a strong arts and culture scene, it’s possible to enjoy a very high quality of life at an extremely low price point.
Art and Culture
It’s easy to quickly become enchanted with Granada. The beautiful streets with colonial churches and architecture are quite picturesque and might fool you into thinking you’re in a lovely town in Europe.
However the moment you walk through the bustling markets it’s clear that you are in Latin America. Locals sell fresh fish, produce, herbs, cheeses, and more on the streets which creates a colorful lively scene. The many galleries and art stores reflect Nicaragua’s long dedication to the arts and add a fascinating layer to the community.
Many international and local fusion restaurants line the streets offering local grilled steak and plantains while street vendors grill fresh cornmeal patties filled with cheese. The unique melding of European and Latin culture makes Granada a very special city to explore.
Proximity to Natural Wonders
JeffR Travel
Granada may be a city but it’s within a few miles of plenty of incredible outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy the comforts of city life as well wilderness exploration and time with nature.
Lake Nicaragua and the Isletas
At the end of town is Lake Nicaragua with its many beautiful wilderness-covered isletas that you can explore by chartered boat or kayak. The 365 tiny islands were formed from a volcanic explosion. Today the isletas support an entire community with schools, homes, and restaurants.
Mombacho Volcano
Less than ten miles from Granada is the Mombacho volcano which offers stunning views of Lake Nicaragua and the isletas. The volcano has four craters and is covered in cloud forest filled with animals. Howler and white face monkeys, snakes, deer, reptiles, and birds all call this forest home. At the top of the volcano there are plenty of trails that one can explore.
La Laguna de Apoyo
A short drive from the town center, the Laguna de Apoyo is a stunning place to observe animals and cool off from the city heat. This crystal-clear stunning lagoon was formed by the eruption of a volcano thousands of years ago. The lagoon is a great place for swimming and kayaking while the surrounding forest is teeming with flora and fauna.
Masaya Volcano
The Masaya volcano sits between Granada and Managua and sits in Nicaragua’s first National Park which boasts two volcanoes and five craters. The top of the volcano has great views and is often active. In the park there is an underground tunnel formed by lava flows and in the tunnel one can observe bats and glowing lava!
Pacific Coast Beaches
An hour and half drive from Granada are some of the most beautiful beaches in Central America with some stellar surfing. Weekend beach excursions are easy for those living in Granada. San Juan del Sur is the most popular beach for tourists, surfers, and yogis, but there are plenty of more relaxed beaches on the coast with equally surfable waves.
Las Penitas near Leon even has turtle hatchings on the beach that you can observe or participate in by protecting the baby turtles from predators as they make their way into the ocean.
With its solid arts and culture scene, established expat community, low cost, high quality living, beautiful architecture, and many outdoor activities, Granada is a great place for those looking for city comforts, immersion in another culture, and proximity to nature.
The calm blue waters of Lake Nicaragua have made it a favorite destination for nature lovers across the world. Spanning 110 miles in length, it’s the largest freshwater lake in Central America.
In fact, the lake is so large that it actually has many ocean characteristics. The lake is tidal, and the area often experiences storms of the kind you’d find on the coast. The area around the lake is beautiful, and it’s not surprising that many expats set their heart on moving here.
If you are thinking of making Lake Nicaragua your home, you have the choice of five main areas. They are Granada, San Carlos, San Jorge, Ometepe Island and San Miguelito.
These five port towns all have a lot to offer. Around the banks of the lake you will find historical architecture, churches, markets, and nightspots waiting for you to discover them.
Which area you choose depends on your personal preference. Here is some guidance to help you make the right decision.
Granada
Granada is a very popular choice. It is a beautiful colonial city, with stunning Spanish-inspired architecture and a lot of cultural experiences to offer. As it is a comparatively wealthy area, Granada offers much more in the way of luxurious living than the other four port cities. A lot of money was spent on restoring the city in the 1990s, and the city now has amenities like:
- cable and cell phone service
- four star hotels and restaurants
- a brand new supermarket and a selection of health food stores
- libraries
- gyms
- Internet cafes
Because of this, Granada offers a high quality of life for expats. Not only does it enable you to get closer to nature and enjoy the fantastic landscapes and still waters of the surrounding area, it also lets you do it with all the comforts of a modern city! However, though the real estate in Granada still offers strong investment opportunities, it is more expensive than it is in other parts of the tropics.
San Carlos
Like Granada, San Carlos is a big city with a good selection of facilities and amenities. It is the capital of Rio San Juan, and here you’ll find doctors, lawyers, and most other professional services. The town also has its own small airport, which makes for very convenient travel.
One of the main benefits of San Carlos is that it sits right on the bank of the lake and offers beautiful views across the water. The city also has idyllic features such as a tropical atmosphere, friendly people, and a very low volume of traffic. Many of the people who live in San Carlos are fishermen by trade, which means that it’s a great place to eat!
The downside of San Carlos is that it is not as picturesque as other places in the area. The natural rainforest around the town is being threatened by slash-and-burn timber techniques, and the town’s accommodation is characterized by corrugated iron.
San Jorge
San Jorge is a small village on the western side of the lake. It’s best known for its ferry links, as it’s here that people go to to catch the boat to Ometepe Island. Though small, the village does have some popular restaurants.
This rural area is rich with vegetation and wildlife. If you’re looking for a truly rural retreat, San Jorge might be the right choice for you. If you’re looking for a new home base with a bit more life, you might want to look elsewhere.
Ometepe Island
Speaking of rural living, could island life be what you’re looking for? Ometepe Island sits right in the middle of Lake Nicaragua, measures 276 square kilometers and is home to two volcanoes. The island has fertile soil, lovely beaches, and rich biodiversity. In fact, Ometepe has long been described as a paradise.
Unlike Granada and San Carlos, Ometepe Island has little to offer in the way of facilities or luxuries. It is, however, a beautiful spot.
San Miguelito
San Miguelito is a mountainous municipality that looks out over the lake. In addition to gorgeous lake views, it is also home to two rivers and numerous waterfalls. The real beauty of this area is the sandy beaches that line the edge of the lake.
The town of San Miguelito is small but well formed. Between March 8th and 14th each year the town lights up to celebrate the traditional festival of San Miguel de Arcangel.
There are some travel links to the town, but it doesn’t have much to offer in terms of restaurants or nightlife.
Wherever you choose to live on Lake Nicaragua, you can be sure of two things; beautiful lake views and friendly locals.
Away from Boredom in Granada Nicaragua
The town paints itself. Cement block buildings, boldly painted in bright splashes of red, green, and yellow. The clay tile roofs bend over the streets of Granada Nicaragua, then hesitate and separate for furious sprigs of bright, flowering plants, shaded parks, and clean, gentle streets easing by colonnaded buildings. In the air, is a feeling of excitement and energy.
Face it. The modern concepts of city planning have become boring. Look-alike houses, all painted the same color, with tiny lawns and only a number to separate one home from another, and a street sign to tell you you’re in the right neighborhood. Shopping malls, fast food diners, playgrounds, and parks all based on the same architecture. It’s little wonder creativity has taken a nose dive and a person’s favorite “real estate” is an Internet capable cell phone. Real-time adventure is limited to zip-lining over a rock quarry. Romance is a dirty word, associated with melodrama and cheap paperback books.
Yet there is absolutely no ignoring the fact that Granada, Nicaragua is romantic. How could it be otherwise? Founded in 1529, it’s not only the first colonial town built on firm land, its marked Baroque style is based off early Moorish architecture, giving it a unique flavor found nowhere else in Central America.
You Can Truly Get Away from It All
Secluded from the modern world by the miles of wilderness characteristic of Nicaragua, Granada slumbered peacefully through the Sandinista civil war in a backdrop of rich agricultural land, dry forests, and tropical rain forests and volcanoes. As though this pastoral setting wasn’t enough to keep the dreamer dreaming, it’s also located on one of the largest lakes in the world, Lake Nicaragua, or, as the locals call it, Cocibolca.
It is a natural playground for adventurers. It has three volcanic lagoons; Manares, Genirzaro and the famous Apoyo, the largest lagoon in Nicaragua. Due to its rough, unpredictable waters, as well as industrial pollution, swimming in Lake Nicaragua isn’t recommended, but tourists and locals take full advantage of the crystal clear waters of Apoyo.
You Can Also Take It with You
Although the area surrounding Granada is largely underdeveloped, with few modern conveniences, Granada, Nicaragua is no longer a sleepy little town. An initiative to preserve and restore the ancient colonial architecture that had begun to seriously deteriorate with Nicaraguan bankruptcy, resulted in foreign aid and investments, beginning in 1990. The Spanish government in particular, took a keen interest in the refurbishment of the city, even transforming the Calle La Calzada into Peatonal – a foot traffic only – street.
It didn’t take long for Americans and Europeans to discover the charm of the quaint city, and a Granada’s real estate appeal much greater than owning a few cubic yards of lawn and a two car garage. It wasn’t long before they were buying the historic buildings, turning them into retirement homes, apartments, and businesses. The pace slowed down in 2007 with the global recession, but word had already gotten around. Granada, Nicaragua was the smart place to invest in, and after a brief lull, attention turned once more to the accommodating and entirely affordable town.
Modern day Granada wakes to the sound of hammers, saws, and mixers. The repaired city has cable and cell phone service, Internet cafes, luxury hotels with swimming pools and hot, running water, four star restaurants, a new supermarket, health food stores, libraries, gyms, and still plenty of opportunities for investors.
Government Initiative
There are many advantages for investors in Granada Nicaragua. There are no real restrictions on foreign capital investment, and regulations concerning business development are minimal. There are no real estate taxes for up to ten years and supplies for starting your business are tax-free. You may import up to $20,000 in personal items tax-free. You may also import or buy a vehicle worth up to $25,000 without paying a tax.
The GDP growth rate in Nicaragua is one of the fastest in Central America. The economy has expanded at 5.2%, and construction is up 30%. Granada is one of Nicaragua’s fastest growing towns. Its recent overhaul has included updated utility services and major improvements in road maintenance.
Nicaragua’s low income base makes it once of the most affordable Central American countries to invest in, raise families, or retire. Although Granada is considered prime real estate, giving it a higher value than other locations within Nicaragua, the value of real estate and cost of living is still half what it is in the United States.
Easy Flight
Granada is located within a forty minute drive of the capital city, Managua. Air flights from Houston or Miami to the Managua International Airport take about two hours. There are shuttles available for $15. Most of the shuttle services will drop you off at nearly any point in Granada. There are also taxis available for around $35. Recently, the small airport at Granada has begun offering services between the town and the Managua airport.
Granada, Nicaragua’s Solid Economic Base
Granada’s escape from major conflict during the Nicaragua civil war was largely due to its reputation as a place to relax and refresh your mind from critical issues and decisions. Businessmen, states people, and diplomats regarded Granada as a prime vacation spot. As the war settled to a close, it attracted a growing number of European and U.S. travelers as an ideal tourist spot.
However, tourism is not its only industry. Granada has long been a Nicaraguan hub for commerce, with a vigorous trade in timber, gold, and silver. It’s also rich in agricultural land, capable of growing a large variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, as well as cotton, tobacco, coffee, and livestock.
Fishing Bonus
The fishing is good in nearby Cocibolca, keeping both the local fishermen and expat community happy. Fish include several species of mojarra and other cichild fish, sardines, tarpon, big and small tooth sawfish, and the unique fresh water bull shark. The shark, once considered a hazard to the public and nearly exterminated, is now a protected species.
It is believed the unusual appearance of the shark, tarpon, and sawfish in the Nicaragua Lake is due to a geographic event. Millennia ago, the lake was once a Pacific bay until volcanic eruptions sealed it into a landlocked body of water. As the water sweetened, the marine life slowly adapted to their fresh water home.
A Culture of Art
Its seclusion, its lakeside vantage, and its early colonial architecture aren’t all that attracts tourists. Even before it was established as a colonial settlement, it was a center for art, music, and philosophy among the indigenous culture. The music of Nicaragua is an energetic blend of Spanish and indigenous rhythms, progressing into modernism with the cheerful incorporation of jazz, hip-hop, rock, and rap. The multi-cultural blend has been the inspiration of international poets since 1929. Each year, there is a local festival of the poets in which marchers symbolically bury ignorance and intolerance.
There is no end of subject matter for artists, who have also been enthusiastically setting up their easels on the narrow streets of Granada Nicaragua. The scenery, the performing arts, the distinct cultural aspects are immortalized on canvas and fashioned into handcrafts.
The Expat Community of Granada Nicaragua
There are a variety of reasons why people choose to move abroad, but the greatest common denominator is opportunity. Just as many people from underdeveloped countries look to the Western countries as an opportunity to improve their lifestyles, Western citizens who have been severely affected by the economic slump are anxiously guarding their remaining assets and speculating on the increasing stability of the emerging countries.
Granada attracts a large number of youthful investors. With real estate available for as low as $60,000, and no restrictions on foreign ownership, opportunity holds a special meaning. Many bring their business ideas, their entrepreneurship, and their organizational skills, finding the restrictions in trying to generate self-income too discouraging in their home countries. In Granada, their modest capital can go far. All it takes is a little ingenuity and labor.
Opportunity also knocks on the door for teachers, environmentalists, agricultural specialists, botanists, anthropologists, and geologists. The field of foreign studies brings in students ready to gain hands-on experience in a volunteer project.
The expat community is close knit, with a strong sense of volunteer commitment. Many are engaged in helping Nicaragua meet its goal of higher education and health care standards for the rural communities. Although the infrastructure of Granada is excellent, with English/Spanish transitional schools, several hospitals and clinics, and a highly competent professional staff, the largely rural population within the Pacific district of Granada still suffer from limited education and inadequate health care.
The Best Way In
Those who consider uprooting and relocating to Granada Nicaragua are urged to try it out first. The average lifestyle in Granada is energetic, even among the retirees. They have a strong affinity to the outdoors.
In the tradition of Spanish/Moorish architecture, the colonial homes surround small, open court yards. Their living rooms and kitchens rest under awnings, looking out to their cultivated space.
The narrow streets encourage foot traffic and bicycles far more than automobiles. Those who own vehicles usually leave them parked in the garage unless they’re taking an excursion to Managua to buy supplies, or going on a cruise to one of the many wonderful nearby destinations. In Granada, it’s a short trip to the Pacific Ocean, or to the San Juan Rio.
The grapevine is the best way to find apartment housing, real estate deals, job opportunities, coming events, and bargain tips. By hooking in to the Internet community, you can break the ice online, and learn about expat meeting places, or you could just stroll around until you see a large congregation of expats spilling out in front of the coffee shops, sitting around small, shaded tables on the sidewalk.
Any Lifestyle Is a Good Lifestyle in Granada Nicaragua
If you talk to ten expats, you’ll find ten different opinions of the best lifestyle in Nicaragua. Many are proud of the newly renovated colonial homes, complete with swimming pools, air conditioning, Internet, cable television, guest rooms, and maid services. High-end homes can be purchased or restored for $150,000 to $250,000. Some who have invested in high-end homes rent their extra rooms for $400 a month.
Other expats build businesses or offices into their colonial homes. Their amenities may be somewhat more modest, but these budget-conscious venturers into small enterprise report a comfortable lifestyle with evenings out, restaurant dining, medical services, and automobile maintenance for $1,200 a month.
There are still others who gradually begin blending with the locals. They rent lower-cost housing outside the Central, buy products and groceries at the outdoor market and spend money at the street stands. They learn fluent Spanish and participate in the festivals and other activities. Many report living quite well on $800 a month.
The Great Motivating Factor
Opportunities exist throughout the emerging countries, but the opportunities that bring the expats together is marked by the spirit of self-determination. They visualize how things could be in a country truly open to free expression, and understand the liberties you ask for yourself are also the liberties requested of others. Free expression might be given with colorful explosions or in a musician wistfully playing a flute on a street corner. It might be flamboyant. It might be nothing more rhythmic and plodding than a farmer’s cart being pulled by a horse.
This free expression is what they embrace most. Whether they are starting a business, working a profession, volunteering services, or just planning that perfect retirement home, they thrill in the expression of their individual creativity and anticipate their roles in society. For them, anything is possible in this newly recovering country.
Granada mixes the ancient with the modern, hand-crafted items with sophisticated electronics. It is historically diplomatic, serving as a meeting place for scholars and a busy hub for commerce. The expats who choose to live there do because they believe in a future where individuals can make a difference and that Granada Nicaragua can help shape that difference.
Further Reading on Granada
For an in depth look at Granada check out our Granada Starter Kit, a 64 page book packed full of info on Granada.
Central America has definitely become an expat hotspot, especially among North Americans, and although it remains one of the least visited countries in the region, Nicaragua is steadily gaining popularity.
So what is it about Granada Nicaragua that makes it an expat haven?
No longer too exotic for travelers, today expats are making their way down to this amazing country to experience the beaches, the volcanic views, and the picturesque, colonial city of Granada, all at a very affordable cost.
And while you may think that you know a thing or two about Nicaragua, and Granada in particular, there are a few things that you may not have known that might just tip the scales in Granada’s direction.
1) Granada is considered the ‘colonial jewel’ of Nicaragua and is becoming a gateway to tourism growth
Dubbed ‘La Gran Sultana’ or the ‘Great Pearl’, the ancient city of Granada is the oldest city in Central America and has been settled for over 500 years.
A city rich in history and beauty, Granada has become the most developed tourist spot in Nicaragua. And the industry is blossoming as expats and tourists alike head down to Nicaragua’s ‘colonial jewel’ to enjoy the historic architecture, the shores of Lake Nicaragua, and the ideal, spring-like climate.
In Granada, your days can be spent taking canopy tours of Mombacho Volcano, viewing the picturesque churches, or even taking a carriage ride through the city, which will definitely take you back in time.
2) Granada is sister city to Antigua, Guatemala
Founded by Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba in 1524, Granada was originally the sister Capital city of Central America, along with Antigua, Guatemala.
Having a lot in common, both of these beautiful, colonial cities are safe and well-preserved, and are both tourist hotspots in their respectable countries.
3) Granada was once a prime target for pirates
Another thing you may not have known about Granada, is that it has a history of being sacked by pirates on numerous occasions.
It didn’t just happen in the movies. Between the years 1665 and 1857, Caribbean pirates roamed the clear waters of Lake Nicaragua, the largest fresh water lake in Central America that is connected to the Caribbean Sea by the San Juan River.
Making its home on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, Granada was an important trading post, which made it a prime and frequent target for these rogue buccaneers.
Arguably the most famous of these pirates was William Walker, who settled in Granada with the master plan to become the ruler of all Central America. Needless to say, he did not succeed, but he left his mark by setting fire to the city and leaving behind the words ‘Granada was here’. Luckily, it’s still here.
4) Life in Granada is cheap
Although on the rise, Nicaragua is not yet choked with the high volume of tourists that you will find in other areas of Central America, and because of this, the cost of living in Granada is very low.
In Granada, expats can soak in the scenic beauty, the unbeatable weather and the cobblestone streets without draining their savings in the process.
Renting a home in Granada is extremely affordable and a spacious one bedroom apartment with a large kitchen and all utilities included will run you anywhere from $350-500 a month, a mere fraction of what you would pay back in the States.
And with markets selling fresh, cheap produce and moderately priced restaurants, gyms, and even a movie theater, you can live a full life in Granada, on a low budget.
5) There is a green tourism movement
Ecotourism is experiencing a new wave of popularity when it comes to deciding on a vacation destination or retirement spot and Granada is definitely on board.
Working out of Granada, the Rainforest Alliance (a group working to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices, and consumer behavior) is currently working on an urban sustainability tourism project that will make it easier for travelers to choose sustainable tourism options when they decide where to vacation, or retire.
In Granada, you will find that a lot of energy is going into sustainable development and nature conservation. Certain hotels are recycling and efforts are currently going towards making the Isletas (small islands around Granada) a natural reserve.
This is all in order to prove that Granadean hotel owners, tour operators and other business owners working in a sustainable manner, can in fact, fuel the local economy.
6) Granada is filled with great restaurants
Mainly due to the fact that Granada is Nicaragua’s main tourist destination, Granada is a hub for amazing dining experiences.
In Granada, you can indulge in a diverse range of cuisine at very reasonable prices, so it can be all too easy to go overboard when it comes to dining.
Feast on local dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and tostones (fried plantains), but if you’re itching for something different, there is much to try in Granada.
Get your fill of Indian food at Buddha Viva where you can purchase the dinner buffet for $7, savour tasty, handmade pizza at Pizzeria Don Luca or fill up on delicious Mexican food at Tequila Vallarta.
And if cooking is your thing, head down to the local market to stock up on fresh, local ingredients like beans, rice, peppers, garlic, and potatoes to make your own meals.
7) Willy Wonka, Nicaragua style
Orange Bompton
Although not as well-known for their chocolate as the Swiss or the Belgians, Nicaraguans make fantastic chocolate that can be tasted and observed at the ChocoMuseo in Granada.
If you make a trip to the ChocoMuseo you will be able to witness the chocolate making process, as it moves from cacao bean, to a smooth bar of chocolate.
And if you’d like to experience more, you can try a chocolate making workshop where you can learn to make chocolate bars, decadent truffles, and even chocolate ganache.
Is Granada the city for you?
Now that you know a few more things about the beautiful city of Granada, Nicaragua, plan a trip and come down to experience this colonial gem for yourself.
With perfect weather, scenic beauty and a low cost of living, consider Granada, Nicaragua, and all of the great things it has to offer. And who knows, while you’re down there, you may just find the perfect spot to call home.
It was bound to happen. At some point, the elegant city of Granada would be discovered by a tourist trade, fascinated by the early colonial architecture settled tranquilly by the fitful waters of Cocibolca, with the dormant volcano, Mombacho, rearing triumphantly a few miles away. The idea of living in Granada would also attract a residency of expats and retirees, searching for their paradise, or just an escape from the political pressure and economic instability of their native countries.
The freshly painted buildings gleam next to the domed cathedral, the central plaza, the shaded park, the antique cannons reminding the visitor of an era of pirates and land struggles.
The streets seem nearly deserted. Late model cars line up in front of sheltering canopies, supported by equally freshly painted pillars, while a few pedestrians wander back from the market, woven shopping bags clinging to their arms.
Living in Granada: The Expat’s World
Inside the sedate buildings is a vigorous lifestyle. The post-preppie generation has moved in with coffee shops, health food stores, arts and crafts displays, sports equipment and gyms. As the day winds down, they come out to cluster around cafes and restaurants, with tables and chairs spilling out the doors and into the streets. They chatter about philosophy and politics, rising prices, places they’ve been and haven’t been yet, and sometimes, nothing at all.
Away from the decidedly middle to upper class central, there is a different life, a different beat. Traffic edges bumper to bumper, on rain-eroded pavement, competing with ox-carts, bicycles, and pedestrians for momentum in narrow avenues sliding by multi-colored concrete block store fronts and dwellings. Bright orange and yellow umbrellas hang over street stands loaded with hand prepared candies, freshly picked fruits and sea foods simmering in their juices. Hawkers demonstrate the wonders of plastic toys, carved bamboo flutes, incense, and religious candles.
Living in Granada is a choice between carrying your home with you, blending your expat life with dips in a private swimming pool and participation in the numerous Nicaraguan festivals, or immersing yourself completely in local culture. Typical of Central American countries, the poor set up homes in barrios and make-shift shacks next to the more affluent residents, the modern gas stations, video stores, and Internet cafes. There is no zoning committee. There is no careful separation of economic social classes offering shopping malls, theaters, and boutiques undisturbed by low-income housing.
Beyond the Hub
A walk down to the lakefront reveals a mother supervising her children on a rusting swing set. A little girl in a fluffy pink dress walks along a stone pier, bits of rock bubbling away into the dust from years of neglect. Under the banyan trees, their exposed roots bleached and twisted, a family peacefully picnics. An old man plays a xylophone, while at one end, a purple-headed parrot listens and sometimes bobs to the music.
In the evenings, the local community is alive with sound. Youths straddle their bikes like a motorcycle gang, although their ride is nothing more than a bicycle, and they’ve come to watch the show, not make trouble. The show is a set of musicians, one setting the beat with bongos, while Spanish guitars and trombones pick up the melody. A circle is cleared within the crowd, and four young boys demonstrate their break-dancing skills. The jugglers appear, one tossing around fire brands, another machetes, and yet a third, popping crystal balls from his arm muscles.
The town, so quiet, so unnoticed just a few years ago, now contains a modern supermarket. While expats fill their carts with favorite products from home, and examine the fresh produce, the locals walk through the aisles in awe. They remove a few boxes of crackers and cookies, shake them and sniff. Their fingers rove over the jars of spaghetti sauce, prepared Texas salsa, and catsup. They finally settle on a box of cereal and a few packages of maizena.
Their own outdoor market hums with the steady flow of brisk business. Folded tee-shirts, flounced little girl dresses on hangers, sexy women’s wear, plastic shoes and sandals threaten to burst from the confines of the tented shelters, while fruits, freshly caught fish, herbs and vegetables pile up in pyramids.
The Meeting of Cultures
The stark difference between local life in Granada and the newly found prosperity of Granada central doesn’t seem to bother the international community of retirees and expats. Some brag about their ability to exist on a three hundred dollar a month budget, by living in humble apartments, sacrificing air-conditioning and surrendering their Internet privileges to monitored time at a cyber-café. Others delight in their ability to afford maid service, dining out at restaurants three times a week, and cruising to Ometepe in a boat for the classic get-away-from-it-all.
There is however, a strong sense of volunteer service within the community. Although the country has been striving for a population-wide literacy program, the average native Nicaraguan has no more than a fourth to fifth grade education. The small sub-class of educators has stretched its resources. Many of the expats are committed to improving the quality of life for the friendly people who have welcomed them into their country, and have organized schools teaching both Spanish and English skills.
There is also an internal sense of community. Within the loose network of colonial home owners, expats gone local, rural back-to-earthers, and island hoppers, is a cyber-linked information center for showing newbies the ropes. The wired-in rookie can find apartments for rent, directions to legal counsel, tips for shopping places, activities, excursions, and places to hobnob with the crowd.
Choosing Your Rhythm
With so much diversity, it would seem there isn’t much any two people agree upon. Some state that the scaled- back, simpler life of Ometepe island is better than the quickly modernizing colonial hub. Some state renting a house among the local populace is too noisy, others claim it’s the magic touch for integrating into the populace.
Living in Granada, after all, is an explosion of sight and sound. It is music flooding from the streets and drifting from the windows of early morning risers. It is a party set up with amplifiers piled one on top of another, secured with bamboo poles, a tangle of wires leading to a heavy electric cable, while piñatas swing from the trees. It is long rolling months of hot, sunny days, relieved only by a rainy season, which usually begins in May and ends in December.
The rain brings its own music, tinkling on metal roof tops, sliding down garrets, tapping against windows and thudding against tent style canopies. For some, it’s a lull in the busy tourism industry, and they restlessly wait for the drier season. For others, it’s the eagerly waited moment when their carefully cultivated gardens begin to bloom and fresh greenery unfolds on the hillsides.
Making the Adjustment
For all the differences of opinion, there are some things the community of retirees and expats are agreed on. While Granada is incredibly beautiful, you should rent a place for a few months first before deciding it’s where you want to live. Although there are over a thousand expats living in the city, the numbers are lost among two hundred thousand residents. Its flavor, its color, its vibrancy is local.
For this reason, you should also learn to speak Spanish. While there are many English speakers, especially among businesses and services, Spanish is the dominant language. Without learning it, your options are limited, as well as your understanding of the people.
Granada not only has excellent medical care (though you might have to travel to Managua for it), it is cheap, with services that undercut even those of Mexico, Costa Rica, or Panama.
Granada is the place they settled on because it’s vibrant and alive. It’s filled with opportunities. It has a vision, multi-cultural and tolerant of new ideas, new customs, and diversified lifestyles. The freedom of expression that had once characterized American democracy and has become lost in bureaucratic red tape has been found again in Granada.
If you are one of many North Americans searching for the best place to live in the world, but don’t know where to begin, then these rankings are for you.
In this inaugural retirement power rankings, I have put together a comprehensive grouping based on the most important criteria for living a happy overseas life.
While most of Central America has a warm tropical climate and a relatively low cost-of-living, each country, city, and town is different and will have something unique to offer you.
To help narrow your search, I have ranked 15 of Latin America’s top destinations based on the combined criteria of value, beauty, ease of access, and healthcare, and quality of life. The number one selection meets the most of the chosen criteria.
So move through the ranked cities and towns, determine which attributes are most important to you, and begin compiling your own list of possible destinations as you search for the best place to live in the world and the perfect spot to call home.
1) Cuenca, Ecuador
Photo: Bill Grenn
Nestled in the Andes and surrounded by four sprawling rivers, the friendly city of Cuenca, Ecuador has become the best place to live in the world for many expats. Cuenca is the ideal retirement spot for expats who like having large city amenities like bars and shopping malls at their fingertips, while living in a tropical environment.
The cobbled streets and historic architecture make Cuenca look like a snapshot straight from a European postcard and the vibe of the city allows expats to live like they would in Paris or San Francisco, but at a fraction of the cost.
A city of 500,000 respectably, Cuenca locals are extremely welcoming of North American expats and many of the people and store owners speak English, making it easy for expats to settle into Cuenca life.
The perfect place to retire or even to raise a family, this artisan community promotes education (there are 8 universities in Cuenca) and has a good health care system comprised of 18 hospitals and medical centers. Time will tell if Cuenca can last atop the ratings or become a passing fad.
2) Boquete, Panama
Rita Willeart
Boquete is the old Cuenca, and other than being slightly more expensive and a bit smaller, it’s still an incredible option and one of the best places to live in the world.
Known as the valley of flowers and eternal spring, Boquete makes its home in the Panama highlands at an elevation of 4,000 feet, which allows it to avoid some of the humidity that can be found in other areas of the country.
Bursting with exotic flora and accented with rainbows that appear frequently as a result of the bajareque (light rainfall that comes down from the mountains with the north wind) the scenic beauty of the surrounding area of Boquete is truly a sight to be savored.
A town of 20,000, but only a 30 minute drive from the Chiriquí capital of David, in Boquete you can relish in the small town life. The downtown area is not the most attractive place in the world, but its good food and ease of living make up for it in spades.
Hike, rock climb, horseback ride, and experience the culture of the local Ngobe-Bugle people as you learn to enjoy what several others have already learned: this is a great place to live.
3) Nosara, Costa Rica
Photo: Jason Ewa
A small town located in the Nicoya Peninsula, on the northwest Pacific coast, Nosara is a well-known surfer’s and Yoga paradise.
Nosara is the highest ranked beach area on the list, and it has a fighting chance to be a contender with all its offerings, but its Achilles Heel is that it can be a little expensive. Comparable to the cost of living in many U.S. towns, Nosara is not for the budget-minded.
People come to Nosara to soak in the small beach town vibe, and with a two and a half hour drive to Liberia, a four hour drive to San Jose and an undeveloped road leading into town, the town remains remote.
Yet, despite its remote location, Nosara is filled with expats who think of this as a benefit. There isn’t much for local culture and Nosara can actually feel like an English-speaking town.
But what Nosara lacks in local culture, it makes up for in natural beauty.
With four miles of white sand beach of Playa Guiones and access to Playa Pelada (a bordering neighborhood of Playa Guiones), for many expats, Nosara is a little slice of heaven.
4) Roatan, Honduras
Photo: Matteo Tarenghi
Not everyone wants to live on an island, but this place is well worth it even with the negative headlines often received by the country of Honduras.
Retire in Roatan, Honduras, and spend each day enjoying the unspoiled beaches and crystal blue ocean without having to worry about the crowds like you do in other parts of Central America.
The largest bay island in Honduras, Roatan is only a 2.5 hour flight from Houston, Texas, making it beautiful, as well as convenient.
And while it isn’t yet choked with tourists and expats, it may not remain a retirement secret for long. In 2011, Island Magazine named Roatan the number one island in the world to retire to and with so many amazing islands out there, that is definitely a bold statement. Because of this it comes as no surprise that many expats consider Roatan to be the best place to live in the world.
There is an established expat community in Roatan and getting residency is quite simple. You can be granted a retirement Visa as long as you can prove an annual income of $1,500 a month, which makes settling down in the paradise of Roatan, a very achievable dream.
5) Granada, Nicaragua
Photo: Soul Surfer
Described by some as one of the world’s best retirement destinations, in Granada, expats can set out the welcome mat in a luxurious and affordable colonial home that would have cost them an arm and a leg back in the states.
In fact, a couple can live well in Granada on a budget of around $1,200 a month.
With temperatures that hover in the 80s throughout the year and the cool breeze that blows in from Lake Cocibolca, the weather in Granada is ideal and definitely a huge draw for many North American expats.
Granada also has one of the safest communities in Nicaragua, around 1,000 expats already living in town and best of all, it will only take a two hour plane ride from Miami, Florida, to make the trip down. The only knock on Granada is that it can be perceived as a little gritty, the streets are not pristine as are other colonial cities of the region. This shouldn’t stop you though, Granada is really good value and not a huge compromise.
6) Ambergris Caye, Belize
Photo: Viv and Jill
Belize is gaining popularity with expats and tourists alike, not only for its tropical rainforests and Caribbean beaches, but also because it’s a democratic and English-speaking nation that is very welcoming of visitors.
You may know already that John MacAfee, the notorious software developer, chose to live here and could have chosen anywhere else in the whole world. (Look it up on Google if you missed this story.)
Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and the island’s only town, San Pedro, is known as the dive and water sport capitol of Belize.
The island is also home to the second largest coral reef system in the world and this magnificent reef lies a half mile east of Ambergris Caye and runs along its entire 25 mile length.
Retirees that come to Ambergris Caye will enjoy the mild climate, the beautiful beach setting and the colorful blend of cultures, from Creole to Mayan, as they kick off their shoes and sink into island living.
7) Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Photo: Simon and Vickie
Let’s just get this out of the way, I know the lake is polluted but this still doesn’t change the fact that this little town is an awesome place to live. The area is completely unique in terms of what is offered combined with the incredible opportunity to live around an amazing indigenous culture.
The deep basin of Lake Atitlan was the product of one of the strongest volcanic eruptions in history.
This vast, blue body of water is set against a backdrop of three volcanoes and is surrounded by twelve indigenous villages, many of which are still inhabited by the local Maya.
Expats come to Lake Atitlan to get away from it all and with a two and a half hour drive to Guatemala City and Antigua, life in Lake Atitlan can definitely feel tranquil and remote.
Like many areas in Central America, expats coming to Lake Atitlan can expect to live comfortably on a small budget, but with so many villages and each with a different standard of living, prices will fluctuate, so be sure to shop around.
If you choose life on the lake, get ready to enjoy the simple things in life. Take a walk to the local market to stock up on fresh food and hand-made crafts, hike the mountain trails, or simply stretch out in a hammock and watch the sun set on the water.
8) Escazu, Costa Rica
Photo: Alex Centeno
Costa Rica remains, without a doubt, the most popular Central American destination, and for many, it’s considered the best place to live in the world. After one visit to this tropical paradise, it isn’t hard to see why.
This suburb of the capital city, San Jose, can be found tucked in the Central Valley and is the best place to retire in Costa Rica for expats that want every service available.
Encompassed by lush mountain views and several choices for living and eating, Escazu can offer expats the best of both worlds, gorgeous weather, while living in an urban environment.
While Escazu is more expensive than other areas in Costa Rica, it remains cheaper than urban life in North America and a couple can still live comfortably on a budget of around $2,500 a month.
And with a strong expat community and big city amenities like great restaurants, shopping malls, and an excellent and affordable health care system, it’s no wonder many expats are choosing Escazu.
9) San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
Photo: David Amsler
Because of this popularity, the town has experienced some economic development in recent years and improvements have been made both to the waterfront and to the central park area.
In San Juan del Sur expats can live the beach town life complete with great restaurants, exciting bars and even language schools. There is also a growing alternative scene that does appeal to people who care about the environment and values things like creating your own solar power.
To make your way down to San Juan del Sur, you can hop on a bus from Managua to the municipal markets of Rivas and then board another bus that will take you on to your possible retirement destination. Nicaragua is a very poor country, but don’t let this get in the way of at least exploring it as an option. If you do, you might miss out on something great.
10) Antigua, Guatemala
Photo: Michael Swigart
Picturesque Antigua is a modern city that is rich with history. This 16th century city was founded by Spanish colonists and is filled with colonial style homes and cobblestone streets that simply beckon you to get outside to enjoy the city’s charms.
One hour from Guatemala City, Antigua has a population of 30,000 and while the cost-of-living here might be considered high for Guatemala, the prices are cheap compared to anything you might find in North America of a similar caliber.
Of course, the costs again will vary depending on what you are looking for. While a large, fully restored colonial home near the city center might cost anywhere from a few hundred thousand to a million, there are many lovely smaller homes that can be purchased for under $100,000 or even $50,000.
And with clean, well-preserved streets (the government makes preservation a priority) and no serious crime problem, in Antigua you can feel safe and comfortable as you explore your new home.
11) Panama City, Panama
Photo: WLT
If you like Miami but feel like there are not enough people who speak Spanish, then Panama City could be the perfect solution. With its ultra modern skyline and true metropolitan feel, Panama City offers a unique lifestyle only compared to a Miami Vice breed of Miami.
Hailed as Central America’s most affordable capital city, Panama City is definitely a city on the rise.
With an excellent business climate, Panama is the prime location for expats looking to put their money and live an urban life. Panama’s renowned privacy laws are no doubt a draw for individuals who value privacy but want to live in a very modern city. The established expat community and many expat-run businesses can provide the comforts of home, in a unique and modern tropical setting.
12) Cotacachi, Ecuador
Colleen Taugher
Slow down and live the small town life in Cotacachi, Ecuador, a town of only 9,000 that continues to be relatively undiscovered by expats.
This remote mountain village is hidden between a pair of volcanoes, but is only two hours from busy Quito, Ecuador’s capital city.
In Cotacachi, you will have the unique opportunity to really immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Quichua people, who live side by side with expats and continue to dress in their traditional garb. You can even walk along Lake Cuicocha and witness local Quichua shamans performing cleansing rituals on the serene shores.
Known for hand-crafted leather goods and local markets, Cotacachi is for expats who really want to live and experience authentic Ecuadorian life, but still have a great leather hand bag.
And while there is a medical clinic in town, most residents will make a trip to the nearby towns of Otavolo or Ibarra, or even Quito for any major medical procedures.
13) Playa Papagayo, Costa Rica
Photo: Josie MacDonagh
Bar none, the greatest option for the ultra-wealthy.
In the province of Guanacaste on Costa Rica’s northwest Pacific coast there is a retirement spot that not many know about.
If you are looking to retire in a luxury beach location, the community of Peninsula Papagayo just might be your best option.
This area is the country’s highest profile development and will cover 2,300 acres with 15 miles of coastline.
Currently in Papagayo, there is a Four Seasons Hotel frequented by Brad Pitt, and over 300 condos. Playing 18 holes on the local course has been compared to a life-altering experience.
14) Boca Chica, Panama
Photo: David Curry
If you crave the serenity of island living, without the bustle of large scale beach resorts, look to Boca Chica to find your perfect match.
Boasting some of the most pristine beaches in Central America, Boca Chica can offer retirees many private island settings with a growing expat community that is not yet overly congested with tourists.
Resting against the Pacific Ocean, in Boca Chica you can live out your golden years fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking advantage of the outstanding national marine park in the near vicinity.
The Chiriquí Gulf National Park is comprised of islands and sea and is filled with white-tip sharks, rays, and sea turtles. You can also visit a white sand, palm-lined beach and expect to see no one else.
15) Canoa, Ecuador
Photo: Patricio Lopetegui
Located along the dry looking northern coast, Canoa, Ecuador is the ideal spot for expats that small town living in place with personality.
Recognized as a water sport hot spot, in Canoa you will spend your days surfing, paragliding, kayaking or simply walking along the stretch of unspoiled shore.
A burgeoning expat community can be found in Canoa (made up of more residents than investors) and the town is steadily continuing to expand as more westerners learn what South Americans already know about this Ecuadorian gem.
The town now has a bilingual elementary school and more expat-run restaurants and businesses, but despite this development, the prices are low and the adventure is high.
So where is the best place to live in the world?
With so many amazing spots to choose from, it might take some time before you make a final decision on the best place to live in the world.
Don’t rush into buying, rent around and test the waters in a couple different areas before settling down for the long haul in your own personal paradise.
With stunning volcanoes, wildlife-covered islands, diverse inhabitants, and mystical rivers, Lake Nicaragua’s expansive waters offer endless exploration for nature and adventure lovers. The unusual history and geography of this lake as well as its plentiful and often endangered wildlife makes it a fascinating place to explore.
History
Patrick Smith
Lake Nicaragua likely played an integral role in Nicaraguan society in previous centuries. It is predicted that indigenous tribes caught fish in the lake and used its freshwater for cleaning and drinking. For centuries this lake has been an important connection between the Caribbean Sea and inland Nicaragua as well as its colonial city of Granada. In fact it is precisely the geography of this lake that led Granada to first be conquered and developed.
However, as transportation transitioned to modern forms, the lake no longer became necessary as a mode of transport. Today the lake maintains its value through its absolute beauty and environmental importance.
Many years ago it is supposed that Lake Nicaragua and Lake Managua formed an ocean bay that eventually became two lakes due to a volcanic eruption. The ocean fish that were trapped in these lakes adapted to freshwater, evidenced by the fact that this lake is the only freshwater lake in the world that contains oceanic animal life.
Geography
The largest freshwater lake in Central America and one of the largest in the world, Lake Nicaragua spans 110 miles in length and an average width of 36 miles with an area of 3,149 square miles. At its deepest points the lake plunges for 200 feet. The water level is at its lowest in the country’s dry season between December and April, and highest during the rainier months of May through October.
The lake feeds over 40 rivers, the largest is the Tipitapa River and the most famous being the San Juan River. The San Juan River connects Lake Nicaragua to the Caribbean Sea along a 112 mile course through dense forest. It also connects Nicaragua with Costa Rica and is separated from the Pacific Ocean to the west by a narrow corridor of only 12 miles.
More than 400 islands dot the lake and 300 sit just beyond Granada. These islands are covered in vegetation and wildlife and some are inhabited and somewhat developed with homes and restaurants.
The largest and most frequented island is Ometepe, which is 16 miles long and 8 miles wide. It was formed by two volcanoes, Concepcion and Madera, which are connected by the lava from numerous eruptions.
Vegetation and Wildlife
Sean Taylor
Lake Nicaragua plays a key role in the ecology of Nicaragua. It houses a vast spectrum of aquatic wildlife and also provides hydration for vegetation located in and around the lake.
The large perimeter supports a variety of climates including moist tropical forest to the south and dry forest to the east, north, and west. Most of the islands and islets are covered in dense vegetation which consists of tropical dry forest.
The tops of Maderas on Ometepe Island and Mombacho which border the lake on land have a highly unique ecosystem. They are the only places in the Pacific region of Nicaragua where cloud forests are present and consequently support impressive flora and fauna.
Thousands of species of wildlife live in and around the lake including birds, plants, and aquatic life. Birds are particularly abundant around the islands and islets but can be found all over the lake. Egrets and herons tend to stay on the waterside while flocks of cormorants can be spotted hunting for fish. Hawks and kites also hunt on the lake.
Over 40 species of fish live in Lake Nicaragua which includes 16 species of cichlids, or angelfish as many of us know them. It was estimated in 1994 that over half of the biomass of the lake consists of angelfish, which are the most popular fish purchased for home aquariums. This species is the most exploited in the lake and their prevalence has dropped significantly.
The most famous marine creature in the lake is the Caribbean bull shark, considered a freshwater shark. Its tolerance for freshwater has enabled it to survive in the San Juan River and travel into Lake Nicaragua. In past centuries the sharks would venture back and forth from the Caribbean sea into the lake however with each generation comes greater adaptation and these sharks began reproducing in the freshwater. They became permanent inhabitants in the San Juan River and in Lake Nicaragua. These sharks are aggressive predators and were feared by local fisherman and lake inhabitants. In response a shark-fin processing plant was built on the San Juan River killing thousands of shark every year. Today few remain, they are considered essentially wiped out, and have become somewhat legendary figures.
Other endangered fish that live in the lake include the big sawfish and the fine-toothed sawfish.
How to Enjoy the Lake
There are many ways to enjoy the splendor of Lake Nicaragua, including checking out the views from nearby volcanic craters, touring the many islands, and sailing down the Rio San Juan.
Marvel at the views at the top of Mombacho
The Mombacho volcano, located less than 10 miles from Granada, offers stunning views of Lake Nicaragua and its many islets. The volcano itself has four craters which are covered with cloud forest. Once atop the volcano it is possible to hike on and around the craters for views and wildlife spotting.
There are many types of trees and plants that are supported by the cloud forest’s humidity as well as howler and white face monkeys, snakes, deer, reptiles, birds, and insects. The volcano also has several endemic species including the Mombacho salamander which can only be found here.
To reach the volcano, one must take a grueling hike or a steep and adventurous jeep ride up to the top. Here you will find a tourist center where maps, photos, and information on the flora and fauna is available. It’s also possible to hire a private guide. The entrance fee and ride to the top costs $15 round trip.
Tour the Islets of Lake Nicaragua
Formed by volcanic activity, the 365 islets of Lake Nicaragua are one of Granada’s main attractions. Views of nearby Mombacho create a dramatic backdrop while exploring the lake.
The islets support an entire community with homes, schools, shops, hotels, and restaurants, using boats as their principal form of transportation. The most famous island is called Monkey Island, covered in indigenous monkeys.
The best way to explore the islands is through private boat tours, which can be arranged at the docks along the lake near Granada. Many private boat operators will take groups on hour-long tours for $15.
It’s also possible to take kayaking excursions for $25 where tour guides lead kayakers past many islets, stopping occasionally to swim, explore islands, and witness wildlife.
Stay on Isla de Ometepe
Frank McMains
Ometepe is one of the top destinations in Nicaragua and for good reason. If the majestic site of two volcanoes in water formed by an isthmus is not enough to entice travelers, it is the largest volcanic island in a freshwater lake in the world, is teeming with wildlife, and is rich in fascinating history.
This island is often called the “Oasis of Peace” and was regarded by ancient indigenous inhabitants as the promised land and a sacred island. Pre-Columbian artifacts cover the island and it is considered one of the great rock art areas in the world with its many petroglyphs and stone idols carved into its basalt boulders. With its ancient Mayan, Nahuatl, and Chorotega roots the island celebrates more religious and folk festivals than anywhere else in Nicaragua.
The volcanic ash yields extremely fertile soil so the land produces abundant crops which is why many sustainable farms, eco hotels, and organic restaurants grace the island.
Ferries leave the mainland from Granada and Rivas to reach Ometepe where one can stay in the many towns and arrange epic volcano hikes, biking excursions, and nature tours.
Boat down the Rio San Juan
Nature and adventure lovers will be enchanted by the epic journey down the San Juan River. Both sides of the river teem with wildlife and nature and hundreds of birds live along the river.
The boat excursion travels the entire length of the river out to the Caribbean into the Indio-Maiz Biological Reserve with its plentiful rainforest and wildlife. It is home to many endangered species including howler, white faced, and spider monkeys, jaguars, giant anteaters, crocodiles, toucans, scarlet macaws, and orchids and butterflies.
You can also take shorter trips to the many port towns along the way. Most boats begin in San Carlos which is accessed by plane or a rather bumpy boat ride from Granada.
Short tours take a few hours and cost around $20 while 12-hour tours that take you to the Indio-Maiz cost $70. Custom multi-day trips can also be designed and are best done with larger groups to lower costs.
The Nicaragua 3 Count, where we bring you 3 Nicaragua stories that you shouldn’t miss.
Photo: Bialy
1. Granada: Here’s Why Expats Are Choosing this Colonial Gem
Granada is Nicaragua’s colonial gem. Many expats are calling this city home and for many good reasons. One couple’s reasons for choosing Granada goes well beyond its famous architecture and they say moving there was an emotional feeling more than anything rational.
2. Nicaragua Fast-Tracks Huge Canal Project
Nicaragua has dreamed of building a canal for hundreds of years. Now it is pursuing a plan to give a Chinese company exclusive rights to build the largest development project in Nicaraguan history. With little information and no public debate, the canal project was made public. Nicaraguans have no idea where the funding will come from, what the proposed canal route is, how long it would take to build, what the environmental toll would be, or even how much the project will cost.
3. Nicaragua’s Beaches Among the World’s Best
Nicaragua’s beaches on Little Corn Island are now ranked among the 100 best in the world. Located nearly 44 miles off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast, Little Corn Island is approximate one square mile and known as being “low key, undeveloped and languid”, making it a perfect destination for tourist seeking a laid-back, relaxed vacation.
That First Taste of Free Air
You feel it the moment you step out of the airport, and are busy cruising down the highway to your destination. It’s not just in the traffic that crosses double yellow lines or ignores stop lights if the road is clear. It’s in the vehicles themselves; sometimes crowded to the maximum, with luggage tied to the top, sometimes appearing to be tied up just to keep the vehicle together.
Maybe you’ll notice a truck filled with workers or one that has a hammock swinging lazily in back, with the occupant blissfully taking in the sunlight. The buses lumber by, so packed, passengers cling to the door frames. If you brave one of these second-class, local buses, you might feel you’re in a barnyard. Chickens squawk from crates packed under the seat, and there might even be a goat or a lamb that somebody’s transporting to the market.
It’s a reminder of how America was before seat belt laws and strict traffic regulations, before traffic citations became profitable. If you have someplace to go, nobody cares about the means you use of getting there.
Slowing Down
Outside the city hubs, vehicles are relatively sparse. The most common mode of transportation is by bus. Pedestrians, farmers pushing along a few cows, wash women with piles of clothing on their heads are not an uncommon sight along rural roads.
This daily life, so unencumbered by appointments and punching a clock, begins to seep into you. You find yourself hurrying less and relaxing more, spending time doing those things you’ve always dreamed of doing, but never found the time or the opportunity. You begin to think about your new found freedom, that began with a freedom from worry.
The Economic Race
It seems odd that so many of the citizens who are immigrating from the United States into Central America are doing so out of a longing for freedom, but sadly enough, as a country founded on the liberties of all people, it has become a system of rules and regulations designed to give advantages and privileges to some, while penalizing and suppressing the many.
That hectic pace felt so distinctly in urbanized America is the desperate measure of a people determined to keep their heads above water. The American dream for many married couples, of a fine little home and a two-car garage, can’t possibly be realized unless both are working and they take out a twenty year loan. Those over sixty who had been planning to enjoy the benefits of their golden years, find their retirement or social security checks just aren’t enough, and take on part-time jobs for which they are over-qualified, but too financially distressed to refuse.
Then there are the young singles, working hard and studying for a degree that may not be very helpful for finding work. Jobs that had once taken an associate’s degree, now take a master’s, and debt-strapped students wallow in student loans.
When Life Becomes Stifling
The opportunities once offered in America don’t seem so plentiful anymore. Innovation, imaginative ideas, are either swallowed in a maelstrom of bureaucratic paperwork, or take a long time to mature, making the process uncomfortable for non-entrepreneurial types. For every proposal, no matter how universally beneficial, there is opposition. The red tape ticks away at finances, valuable time, and eventually, motivation.
America can barely breathe. You cannot even build a porch for your house, on your own property, without permits and inspectors. In some communities, there are agreed-upon house colors, and regulations concerning what you may have in your yard. You may discover you don’t even have a right to grow a garden instead of a water wasting lawn. The attempts to create a uniform standard of living within specified zones has swept away the concept that one’s home is one’s castle. The spirit of these rules makes sense, they are for the benefit of environment, home prices, and people’s safety, but in today’s world the rules are wielded like weapons against creativity and individuality.
You’re as Free as Your Neighbor
The migration into Central America is made up of people who have grown weary with asking for permission. The safety net hovering over American social affairs feels more like an entrapment net, encumbering freedom of travel with security checks and invasive techniques, such as airport scans and cell phone tracking.
Homes and small businesses are regulated with so many expensive codes and mandatory health care. The U.S. constituents are strapped with so many liability laws, they become nervous about allowing the neighbor kids to come over and play on a trampoline.
Coping with Drawbacks
The expats have had to make some adjustments. In an area where there is little to no regulation, cities can turn ugly fast, while everybody builds whatever they want and a smorgasbord of buildings go up. If your neighbor wants to begin his day at six in the morning, banging away at his new addition, and you want to sleep until seven, it’s best to just roll over with your pillow.
While the cities offer the modern conveniences, the farther away you are from them, the fewer commodities, such as super consistent electricity, paved roads, libraries, and U.S. foods you’ll find. You may find a lower quality in many of the common household tools, such as for gardening or carpentry.
There is a role reversal once you are an expat. You are suddenly a minority in a foreign country. You’ll feel subjected to the same type of scrutiny as given any minority. You may get pulled over just because you look like a gringo. If you are aspiring to become a global citizen, this actually aids in perspective. Outside the dynamics of the western world, you are a minority.
You Still Feel Freer than You Did in the United States
There is an enormous amount of satisfaction in living and breathing freely, without the rigid controls over an over-regulated government. It’s a learning experience in getting along with others of different cultural backgrounds and lifestyles. It allows you ample opportunities for evaluating your own beliefs. It teaches you resourcefulness with the tools and materials on hand.
For the health-oriented, it becomes advantageous to acquire a taste for the native foods. This isn’t too hard, considering the volume of fresh tropical fruits and delicious sea fare that abound in Central America’s market. Not only do you benefit from the organics, but buying local is cheaper than the shipped-in U.S. market.
The Growing Family of Expats
Families make up a vital force in the expat community. Sometimes, they come down for a year to absorb the cultural setting or as a reprieve from restrictive American life. Sometimes, they arrive with more permanent intentions in mind.
The challenge for these families, if they remain within a residential area removed from the major cities, is finding good schools. But like pioneers, they draw upon their own resourcefulness, enjoying the opportunity to educate their children in the manner they feel is best, maybe even starting their own school.
As We Look Forward
It is, in every sense, a type of pioneering. The expats that settle in Central America don’t hate their country. They hate the limits placed on their abilities to make conscious choices. They no longer wish to be treated like a kid, they trust their own ability to decide what is best.
They know this freedom comes with a price. They are moving into a different culture with different customs. They must depend on their own abilities to cope with change, to problem solve, to develop good relationships with others, but it’s all part of the excitement, the adventure. These are the stimuli for growth and development, the fundamentals of increased awareness, and the reward is an evolving society, ready to explore the new boundaries of individual rights and harmonious communities.
Sal Falko
In recent years Central America has received an influx of North Americans investing in local business. Countries like Belize, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama have become increasingly popular places for baby boomers to retire. Why has this generation chosen to settle offshore?
Quality of Life
With warm weather year round and stunning beaches, lakes, volcanoes, and hillside, Central America has an appealing climate. Many small jungle beach towns are popular among tourists, making foreign investment a lucrative possibility. For those looking for city comforts, most cities lie in close proximity to incredible wilderness. Granada, Nicaragua sits near a stunning lake and volcano and also has great restaurants, nightlife, and culture. Plentiful fruit and vegetables and many outdoor activities also make healthy living not only possible, but easy.
Lower Cost of Living
Even more expensive Central American countries like Costa Rica offer a lower cost of living than the United States. It is very possible for individuals to live comfortably on less than $1,000 per month. Nearby Panama is even more affordable and food, entertainment, and lodging in Nicaragua is half the cost of Costa Rica. This low cost of living is incredibly appealing to baby boomers looking to retire and live abroad without sacrificing luxuries like dining out, maid service, and travel.
Proximity to the U.S.
Central America is an inexpensive, quick flight from the United States, making investment or a permanent move less daunting. Individuals are still able to visit their families or live part time in each place.
Return on Investment
While some investors plan to live and settle in Central America, others buy property simply to earn income from their investment. Property costs are low and vacation rentals can yield a good salary, making these foreign investments a popular choice for those looking to save for retirement.