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Lush greenery and tranquil waters with Mombacho Volcano in the background in Granada, Nicaragua.

Central America

Backpacking Nicaragua

Nicaragua is a lively backpacker route of colonial cities, volcanoes and Pacific surf, with hostels in Granada, León, San Juan del Sur and on Ometepe island.

Photo: Alvison Hunter / Pexels

Hostel destinations in Nicaragua

Lush greenery and tranquil waters with Mombacho Volcano in the background in Granada, Nicaragua.

Granada

Colonial streets and Lake Nicaragua views, with volcano and island trips close byA stunning aerial shot capturing Telica Volcano's dramatic landscape and smoke plume in Nicaragua.

León

A university city of colonial churches, with volcanoes and Pacific beaches nearbyScenic aerial view of a vibrant coastal town in Nicaragua with colorful boats and lush greenery.

San Juan del Sur

A Pacific bay town with surf beaches, sunsets and a lively backpacker sceneExplore the stunning aerial view of Ometepe Island and its volcanic landscape surrounded by serene waters.

Isla de Ometepe

Two volcanoes in Lake Nicaragua, with farms, beaches and jungle trails

Hostels and backpacking in Nicaragua

Nicaragua has a well-worn backpacker trail across its Pacific side. Granada is a colonial lakeside city, León is a university town near volcanoes you can hike or board down, San Juan del Sur is a surf and party base on the coast, and Ometepe is a twin-volcano island in Lake Nicaragua reached by ferry.

Hostels are plentiful along that route, with pools, bars and organised tours in Granada and San Juan del Sur and quieter, farm-style places on Ometepe. Spanish schools are popular, and many travellers stay a week or more. Check current FCDO advice for the latest picture before travelling.