Matagalpa

Coffee lovers unite in this city that offers the best of both worlds—a moving and grooving city where hipster cafes are taking over and the mountains nearby to explore crashing waterfalls and coffee farms. Reaching Matagalpa from the capital takes just over 2 hours, via bus, which departs from Managua every hour. It is one of the most mountainous departments in Nicaragua and boasts a cooler climate, perfect for those looking to avoid the often hot and dry weather of this country. Visitors here should plan on spending at least a day exploring the city itself, as it boasts numerous interesting museums, restaurants, hotels and various forms of entertainment. Stay at Selva Negra Ecolodge where hearty mountain food and fine wine await you. The surrounding area is packed with things to see and do including natural hot springs and mud baths located in the area of Playitas. San Ramon, just outside the capital city, offers reserves and coffee plantations to explore. Don’t miss out on taking a tour on coffee plantations, where visitors can see the entire process of coffee making from start to end, while at the same time exploring the flora and fauna.