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Introducing Southwestern Nicaragua
This is the point where Nicaragua narrows to an isthmus, a slender land bridge of low mountains and sandy beaches stretched between the mighty Pacific Ocean and tranquil Lago de Nicaragua. These two massive bodies of water play a trick of light every evening, as the sun sets and paints the skies between them a fierce swirling violet and orange.
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You may never forget your first sight of Isla de Ometepe in this light, rising from the shimmering lake to two volcanoes, one of them among Central America's most active, at press time murmuring threats of eruption. Fringing the isthmus from top to bottom are beautiful beaches that are only just now being discovered.
Their discovery may unnerve some travelers; the half-moon bay of San Juan del Sur may be the most touristed spot in Nicaragua, so come psychologically prepared. But if you're in the mood - or just looking for a way to ease yourself into Nicaragua - San Juan's well-developed infrastructure makes this region a vacation in every sense of the word.
Last updated: Mar 2, 2009
