Jump to:
León was once the main political, cultural and religious center of Nicaragua and is one of the oldest colonial cities in Central America.
History
The original city, León Viejo, was set at the foot of the Momotombo volcano, but was destroyed in 1609 by a violent earthquake and eruption; it was eventually rebuilt in its current location 90 kilometers north of Managua. The city is home not only to the National University and many striking buildings, such as the colonial cathedral, with its collection of statuettes tracing religious art since the 1700s, but also Nicaragua’s favorite rum distillery — Flor de Cana.
North of León
Heading further north from León is a spectacular drive through a maze of mountains and coffee plantations to reach the largest town in the north, Esteli, which has an interesting history of political battles. Rarely visited, the northern regions provide even deeper insights into rural Nicaragua’s culture and way of life.
The smaller towns of Jinotego and Matagalpa are set among beautiful scenery and although accommodation options are basic, this is an ideal option for a couple of days excellent walking and wildlife spotting in the surrounding forests. These areas are also easily accessible on day trips from León, for those that prefer to stay in a little more comfort.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua by contacting one of our Nicaragua specialists
- 617-223-4790
- Make an inquiry
Places near ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua
- Managua 74 kilometers away
- Masaya Volcano National Park 93 kilometers away
- Granada 116 kilometers away
- Matagalpa 118 kilometers away
- San Juan del Sur 172 kilometers away
- Ometepe Island 175 kilometers away
- Solentiname Islands 246 kilometers away
- Rio San Juan 307 kilometers away
- El Castillo 314 kilometers away
- The Corn Islands 418 kilometers away
Photos of ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua
Accommodation choices for ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
-
La Perla
³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua -
Hotel El Convento
³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua
Ideas for experiencing ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting ³¢±ðó²Ô & Northern Nicaragua, and which use the best local guides.
-
Volcano Cerro Negro Hike Volcano Cerro Negro Hike
Volcano Cerro Negro Hike
Rising out of the green trees the black walls of Cerro Negro create a bizarre contrast with the surroundings. You hike first on trails and later on a kind of black dune created by former lava. As you reach the foot of the volcano you begin an easy climb up to the first of two active and colorful craters.
View details -
Juan Venado Island Excursion Juan Venado Island Excursion
Juan Venado Island Excursion
Travel by boat to the important ecological sanctuary of Isla Juan Venado, where you will witness a huge variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, caiman, water birds and iguanas, among beautiful natural surroundings.
View details -
León City Tour ³¢±ðó²Ô City Tour
³¢±ðó²Ô City Tour
Enjoy a pleasant walking tour of the wonderfully-atmospheric city of ³¢±ðó²Ô, including time exploring the delightful art galleries, museums and beautiful colonial architecture of the city's historic buildings.
View details