Northern Nicaragua Waterfalls & Coffee Country
Explore the cities of Estelí and Matagalpa, zipline to the base or walk behind a waterfall, and choose your own accommodations on our customizable Northern Nicaragua tours.
The northern regions of Nicaragua offer a variety of activities and experiences, depending on the time of year you visit. We offer bespoke trips you can customize to suit your party’s size, interests, budget, and the time you have available to explore this stunning area.
Nicaragua Trips provides safe, insured transportation suitable for your group size and the roads you plan to traverse in the north, as some require 4-wheel drive. We provide you a knowledgeable driver and guide so you can spend your time exactly the way you like. Our customers set the agenda, book their own accommodations (we are happy to make recommendations), and pay for entry to the attractions you choose so you can truly make your trip your own.
Here are a few of the places you might choose to experience in northern Nicaragua.
City of Estelí
The city of Estelí, often referred to as "El Diamante de Las Segovia," (the diamond of Las Segovia) is the capital of the department with the same name and is located 150 kilometers from Managua.
This vibrant city serves as the gateway to Las Segovia, a region encompassing the departments of Nueva Segovia, Madriz, Estelí, and the northern part of Honduras, making it a crucial hub for agro-tourism and commercial activities.
Nestled in a valley and surrounded by plateaus at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level, Estelí offers a pleasant climate that visitors will enjoy. The city features a cozy park, a must-visit spot showcasing monumental monoliths and pre-Columbian archaeological pieces, which are remarkable expressions of Nicaraguan rock art.
Additionally, the magnificent cathedral, with its striking façade and the impressive statues of San Francisco de Asís and Santo Domingo, stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.
Optional activities & experiences
El Jalacate and the incredible rock carving works of El Ermitaño
La Garnacha en Estelí nature reserve with hiking and scenic views
Reserva Natural Miraflor, a beautiful reserve and an excellent place for birdwatching
Finca Neblina del Bosque, a friendly farm stay with quirky accommodations and farm-to-table meals in the cloud forest
City of Matagalpa
Nestled among the mountains at elevations between 700 and 1500 meters above sea level, Matagalpa offers a cool climate and lush, green landscapes thanks to its frequent rains. Just 130 km from Managua, this region is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Nicaragua.
Matagalpa is a key part of the Coffee Route, boasting stunning nature reserves, impressive waterfalls, thriving coffee farms, and a rich cultural heritage. With cozy hotels, guest houses, and delicious dining options, the area provides a perfect blend of nature, history, and comfort.
Optional activities & experiences
Mirador El Calvario, where you can see the entire city from high in the mountains
Museo Del Cafe for a coffee tour and to learn about the history of coffee production in this region
Catedral San Pedro next to the city’s central park
Northern Nicaragua Waterfalls
One highlight of the region is Cascada de la Luna, where thrill-seekers can zipline down to the bottom of the falls and take a refreshing swim. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the rustic bar and restaurant overlooking the falls is a perfect spot to enjoy a cold Victoria Clasica.
Cascada Blanca, located at kilometer 147 of the Tuma-La Dalia highway, is another must-see. Here, visitors can walk under the river and feel the invigorating energy of the 17-meter-high waterfall. The Eco Lodge Cascada Blanca serves as the entry point, offering coffee and a visitor’s center where you can purchase tickets.
Salto de La Estanzuela is a charming waterfall situated roughly six kilometers from Estelí. Although it may not be grand in size, its beauty is undeniable, and the cool waters of the pond below offer a refreshing swim. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, taking in the natural scenery and enjoying the serene environment. The entry fee is approximately $1 per group, making it an affordable and delightful stop for nature lovers.
Optional activities & experiences
Take the zipline or rappel to the bottom of Cascada de la Luna to swim beneath the falls
Have lunch or dinner at the Cascada Blanca Ecolodge overlooking the river beneath the falls
Take a refreshing swim below the Salto de La Estanzuela waterfall
Selva Negra Ecolodge
Selva Negra is a beautiful ecolodge reminiscent of the Black Forest in Germany. Stay overnight in a fairytale cabin nestled in the enchanted forest, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in the main lodge. Enjoy a morning walk in the cloud forest, spotting birds and savoring the cooler temperatures.
A tour of the coffee farm reveals Selva Negra’s commitment to sustainability, with solar-powered cabins, chemical-free growing practices, and greenhouses producing food for the village and lodge. The in-house cheese selection, including brie, gouda, and manchego, is a delightful treat.
Coffee farm tour
Night tour in the cloud forest
Hike the trails on your own during the day
Creating Your Perfect Northern Nicaragua Roadtrip
Travelers seeking adventure and cultural richness should consider spending at least two days in Northern Nicaragua. The experiences in Matagalpa and Esteli offer a refreshing contrast to the colonial charm of Granada, the beaches of San Juan del Sur, and the bustling energy of Managua.
With beautiful sights, heartwarming encounters, and a bit of magic, Northern Nicaragua is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.
Get in touch with us at Nicaragua Trips today on WhatsApp at +505 8866 4378 and let’s plan your adventure.