355.NicaraguaThe Spanish may have conquered it, the Somozas may have ruled it but its forty volcanoes continue to dominate it. Nicaragua is a marvelous Central American amalgam of natural wonders, colonial splendors and political survival.
Purposely first heading to Leon for its renowned Semana Santa festivities, we began our trip witnessing Leon’s myriad religious processions and Good Friday “carpet” creations. Heady political murals and dozens of colonial churches added to the conversation.
Granada, our next stop, is Nicaragua’s more restored colonial city. With Lake Nicaragua lapping at Granada’s shores, Isla Ometepe - the lake’s mythic twin volcano island - is an easy and essential excursion for any visitor.
But the no trip would be complete without checking out conditions at Volcan Masaya. A night time tour is the most dramatic. Just remain calm and “duck and cover” under a nearby car if the volcano decides to spew a few rocks in your direction. Remember, you were warned.
