Last updated:: 12:00 AM ET, Tue September 22, 2015
Central Park in Granada (photos by A Cruising Couple)
Nicaragua is one of those destinations that steals your heart from the moment you arrive. And with expansive lakes, majestic volcanoes, verdant jungle and pristine beaches, it's not difficult to figure out why. Not only is Nicaragua blessed with natural abundance and countless picture-perfect snapshots, the local Nicaraguans are some of the friendliest in all of Central America. Add to that world-renowned cigars, coffee and chocolate, and you have the makings of a truly fantastic vacation.
Nicaragua is only continuing to grow in popularity, with many travelers dubbing it "the new Costa Rica." We're hesitant to call it the new anything - Nicaragua is uniquely wonderful and boasts a culture that is quite different from what you'll find south of the border.
However, there is no denying that now is an excellent time to visit the country before too much tourism changes the authentic experience currently available. And if you're still on the fence, just have a look at these photos from our most recent trip to a small pocket of the country: Granada, San Juan Del Sur and Isla Ometepe. They sure make us want to head back to Nicaragua the first chance we get!

Ziplining In Maderas National Park

Ziplining "Superman Style"

The View From The Bell Tower In Granada

Mombacho Volcano From Granada

Horse Carriage Tour In Granada

Traditional Cemetery In Grenada

Church In Granada

Typical Horse Carriage Scene In Granada

Waterfront Park

Church

Central Market

Friendly Locals

Masaya Volcano

Masaya Volcano Crater

Locals Fishing In The Isletes

The Isletes

Streetside Men

Secluded Beach on Isla Ometepe

Conception Volcano in Isla Ometepe

Punta Jesus Maria

Maderas Volcano Lagoon

Hiking Maderas Volcano

Conception Volcano Isla Ometepe

Capuchin Monkey

Kayaking Isla Ometepe

San Juan del Sur

Sailing in San Juan del Sur

Sailing at Sunset

Boats in San Juan del Sur Harbor

Surfing at Playa Maderas

Maderas Beach

Infinity Pool Overlooking Playa Maderas
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