Gallery of Heroes and Martyrs – This small but powerful museum in Esteli is a must for anyone desiring insight into the Sandinista Revolution and Contra War of the 80s, the wounds from which are still very fresh in this region.
Miraflor and Tisey- Arrange for an overnight homestay at a community in the well-run Reserva Miraflor, and don’t miss the chance to bath in the deliciously frigid waters of Salta Estanzuela in Reserva Tisey.
Custom Cowboy Boots in Esteli – Picky shoppers will have a ball dictating every aspect of their custom-made dream boots in the cowboy heartland of Esteli.
Jinotega – Fall in love with tiny, peaceful Jinotega and the myriad of Ecological Fincas in the surrounding area, including the highly-regarded Selva Negra Mountain Resort.
Volunteering in Matagalpa – Do-gooders should make a beeline for Matagalpa, home to feminist powerhouse Grupo Venancia and the multifaceted center for disabled children, Centro Girasol, among many other impressive organizations.
Somoto Canyon – Not fully on the gringo-radar yet, untouched Somoto Canyon offers a vigorous rock scramble to cool, emerald-green waters, perfect for swimming and even cliff diving.