it is the largest nation in Central America, is bordered on the north by Honduras, on the south by Costa Rica, on the east by the Caribbean Sea, and on the west by the Pacific Ocean. 

Known as "the land of lakes and volcanoes," it contains Central America's two largest lakes and numerous active volcanoes.

Half of Nicaragua is covered by forests. Pines, broad-leaved evergreens, deciduous hardwoods, and savanna grasses provide habitats for many species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Small amounts of gold and silver are produced. 

The rainy season extends from May through November on the Pacific coast and in the highlands and longer in the east. Annual rainfall averages 1,207 mm (47.5 in) at Managua and 2,124 mm (123 in) at Puerto Cabezas and has reached 7,554 mm (297 in) at Bluefields. Temperatures average 27°C (80°F) along the coasts and are lower in the highlands. 

Check out weather information in Managua in real time!!

Other maps here:

Managua

is the capital and largest city of Nicaragua, located in the west central part of the country along the south shore of Lake Managua. Managua serves as the commercial and transportation center of the nation, especially for cotton and coffee grown in Managua's agricultural hinterland. The National Palace, the modern cathedral, and Dario Park are well-known landmarks. 
Managua was a large Indian town by the 16th century, when it was taken by the Spanish. In 1857 it was chosen as the capital of Nicaragua, to resolve a conflict over the location of the capital between the larger cities of Leon and Granada. In 1931, Managua was destroyed by a severe earthquake and fire, and subsequently rebuilt. In 1972 another earthquake occurred, resulting in more than 10,000 casualties. A new commercial center is now being built 10 km (6 mi) away from the former city center. 

Interesting places:

Lago de Nicaragua 

Lake Nicaragua lies in southwestern Nicaragua, 19 km (12 mi) east of the Pacific Ocean. More than 160 km (100 mi) long and averaging 72 km (45 mi) in width, with a maximum depth of 61 m (200 ft), it is the largest freshwater lake in Central America. The Tipitapa River connects it with Lake Managua, and the San Juan River connects it with the Caribbean Sea. Once an arm of the Pacific, the lake still contains varieties of ocean creatures, including the only known freshwater sharks.

Isla de Ometepe 

The Island of Ometepe is one of the most famous places of Nicaragua, it is so for a good reason. People are even more relaxed and friendly on the island than in the rest of the country and the natural sights are amazing. 

Lago de Nicaragua and the two volcanos of Ometepe Island 

Discover the island with us during our December 2002 visit.

And More...

	Pueblos Blancos: The best might be the village of Catarina with its Mirador offering a scenic view of the Laguna de Apoyo, and lakes Nicaragua and Managua in the distance. It could be a starting point to a hike down to the laguna. You may want to arrange for a taxi to pick you up at the bottom so you don t have to hike back up.
	Parque National Volcan Masaya: allows you to get as close as you ever would to an active volcano. There are numerous hiking trails through the lunar landscape of the parc.
	Granada: Granada is a pleasant colonial town with nicely restored buildings. Hotels are more reasonably priced than in Managua. It is a starting point to explore the Lake of Nicaragua, Las Isletas, the Volcan Mombacho.
	Leon: The museum of the revolution is a little treasure. It offers a recollection of the sandinista revolution against Somoza. You can feel that the revolutionary ideals are still alive, and explore the past with photos and books.
	Pacific Beaches: Poneloya, Pochomil, La Boquita, Casares used to be popular touristic centers.  San Juan del Sur is a touristy port town in a beautiful bay with choices of hotels and restaurants. Playa la Flor and Chacocente are protected areas and nesting sites for sea turtles. The beaches are pristine. The only accommodation available is camping at the ranger station.
	Hotel Montelimar: is a luxury hotel that is said to be of good value.
	Then of course there is always Los Cardones SURF LODGE a short distance from Managua, Leon or Granada!

LINKS

Forums:

www.nicaragua.com Lonely planet thorntree www.gotonicaragua.com travel forum and useful travel information

Travel directories:

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