About Nicaragua

Nicaragua lies in Central America, between Costa Rica (to the south) and Honduras (to the north). To the east of Nicaragua is the Atlantic Ocean and to the west the Pacific Ocean. Nicaragua is the poorest and the safest country of Central America. The inhabitants speak Spanish and it is a developing country, with a rich culture and many traditions.

The whole of the country has a tropical climate. Nevertheless there are many differences in temperature. This has contributed to a large biodiversity. The countryside is covered in volcanoes, lakes, waterfalls and of course the many types of beautiful tropical forests. Many of them lie undiscovered and undisturbed.

Nicaragua offers many adventurous outdoor-sports, such as: surfing the waves of the Pacific Ocean, kayaking in the lake of Nicaragua, sand-boarding off a volcano, hiking through the cloud forest, diving in tropical reefs and climbing the mountains.

Culture is mainly found in the larger cities like Granada, Léon and Masaya. There is much to be told about the many traditions, the turbulent history and the magnificent colonial houses and churches. Obviously, the primary reason behind your trip to Nicaragua will be your traineeship but it is good to know that there is enough to do in your spare-time! Check out www.vianica.com for more information about all the tourist possibilities that Nicaragua has to offer.

Fast Facts

Location:	Nicaragua lies in Central America, between Costa Rica (to the south) and Honduras (to the north). To the east of Nicaragua is the Atlantic Ocean and to the west the Pacific Ocean.
Size:	Nicaragua is 2,5 times as big as the Netherlands. 7 % of the country consists of water.
Coastline:	910 km
Climate:	Tropical climate (temperature: 27-37 degrees Celsius), cooler in the highlands.
Highest point:	Mogoton (volcano), 2438 meter
Inhabitants:	5,5 million
Population density:	41,8 inhabitants per square kilometre
Language:	Spanish. Along the Atlantic coast also English and Miskito
Min. Income:	Approximately 100 dollar per month
Religion:	Predominantly Roman Catholic
Type of state:	Republic
Capital city:	Managua
Interesting fact:	65% of the population is under the age of 35

Tips

Vaccination:	Make sure you get the right vaccinations before coming to Nicaragua.
Clothing:	Nicaragua is a warm country. Mainly pack thin, airy clothing. Certain traineeships may require a certain style of dress. If this is the case, you will be informed of this before you arrive.
Visa:	There is no need to make any special arrangements. You are allowed to travel to Nicaragua on a tourist visa. After 3 months, this can be prolonged in the country itself.
Insurance:	Make sure that your insurance covers all the necessary costs during your trip abroad. Take your insurance document with you.
Passport:	Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months on arrival in Nicaragua. Make a copy for your parents, On-Stage and for yourself.
Information:	Aim to inform yourself and those who you are leaving behind as much as possible. This way, everyone understands what is going on.
Important data:	Leave a copy of all important data with someone back home. You never know when you may need it!