San Carlos - Discovering Nicaragua

Travelling to San Carlos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Carlos, a pretty good destination in Nicaragua (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Carlos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Carlos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nicaragua, here's everything to know about San Carlos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Carlos

San Carlos is a city located in the southeastern part of Nicaragua, near the border with Costa Rica. It is situated on the southern shore of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America. San Carlos is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty, including the lake as well as nearby nature reserves and national parks. The city is also known for its historic landmarks, such as the Fort of San Carlos, which dates back to the 17th century. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in San Carlos, including hiking, wildlife watching, and boating on the lake. The city is relatively small, with a population of around 15,000 people.

What to visit in San Carlos

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in San Carlos, Nicaragua: 1. Indio Maiz Biological Reserve - It is a protected area in southeastern Nicaragua, bordering the San Juan River and the border with Costa Rica. It spans over 4,000 square km and is home to several endangered species such as jaguars, monkeys, and tapirs.
2. San Juan River - One of the major waterways of Central America, the San Juan River connects Lake Nicaragua to the Caribbean Sea. It offers scenic views, wildlife spotting opportunities, and boat tours.
3. Solentiname Islands - This archipelago of 36 islands located in Lake Nicaragua is known for its natural beauty, art galleries, and handicrafts. Visitors can take a boat tour, go fishing, or visit the local workshops that make pottery, woodcarvings, and paintings.
4. El Castillo - A historic castle-like fortress that was built in the 17th century to protect the San Juan River from pirates and foreign invaders. It offers stunning views of the river and is now a popular tourist attraction.
5. Santa Marta Waterfall - Located only 4 km from San Carlos, this waterfall is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. There are several hiking trails that lead to the waterfall, and visitors can swim in the refreshing waters.
6. Ojo de Agua - A natural swimming pool located in a forested area near San Carlos, Ojo de Agua is a favorite spot for locals to cool off during hot days. Visitors can swim, relax in the shade, or have a picnic.
7. San Miguelito Archaeological Site - This pre-Columbian archeological site located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua dates back to the 9th century AD. It was a major trading center for pottery and other goods and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can learn about the history of the region and see the artifacts that have been uncovered.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that San Carlos, Nicaragua has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nicaragua, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Carlos.

When to go on holiday to San Carlos

The best time to visit San Carlos, Nicaragua is during the dry season, which is from December to April. During this time, you can expect sunny days and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and sightseeing. The temperatures are also cooler, ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day and cooler in the evenings.
If you're planning to visit during the wet season, which is from May to November, expect high humidity and frequent rain, which can often hinder outdoor activities. However, it is still possible to visit during this time as the rain usually falls in short bursts, and you'll be able to find cheaper accommodation prices.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Carlos

The best way to get to San Carlos, Nicaragua is by taking a flight to Managua, which is the capital city of Nicaragua. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to travel to San Carlos, which is approximately 4 hours away by road.
Alternatively, you can also take a boat from Granada or Ometepe Island to San Carlos, which will take approximately 8 hours. This route is a bit longer, but it offers some stunning views of Lake Nicaragua and the surrounding landscapes.
Once you reach San Carlos, you can explore the town's historical landmarks, such as the San Carlos Fortress, take a boat trip to the Solentiname Islands, or visit the stunning Indio Maiz Biological Reserve.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Carlos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Carlos

Here are a few typical foods of San Carlos, Nicaragua with a short description for each: 1. Gallo Pinto - A traditional dish made with rice and beans cooked together and mixed with onions, sweet peppers, and sometimes tomato. It’s usually served for breakfast with eggs, fried plantains, and sour cream.
2. Quesillo - A Nicaraguan-style quesadilla with a tortilla filled with cheese (usually a soft, fresh cheese), onions, and cream. Typically served with a slaw-like salad made with cabbage, carrots, and vinegar.
3. Vigorón - A popular street food made with boiled yuca (cassava), topped with chicharrones (fried pork rinds), and curtido (a pickled cabbage salad).
4. Tostones - Fried green plantains, smashed and refried again until crispy, salted, and usually served as a side to many Nicaraguan dishes or as a snack.
5. Sopa de Mondongo - A hearty and filling tripe soup made with vegetables, yuca, plantains, and spices.
6. Nacatamales - A tamale-like dish made with corn dough filled with pork, rice, and sometimes vegetables like tomato, onion, and bell peppers. It’s wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.
7. Indio Viejo - A flavorful stew-like dish made with shredded beef or chicken, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spiced with achiote. It’s thickened with masa (corn dough) and served with rice and tortillas.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nicaragua here.

Is San Carlos an expensive destination for tourists?

San Carlos is relatively affordable compared to other tourist destinations around the world, but it may be considered a bit expensive for Nicaragua, which is generally an inexpensive country. Accommodation and food costs may be a bit higher than other areas in Nicaragua, but still very reasonable compared to other destinations in Central America. Since San Carlos is located near the Nicaraguan border with Costa Rica, prices may be slightly higher due to increased tourism traffic. Overall, while San Carlos may be considered a bit more expensive than other cities in Nicaragua, it is still a great value for travelers looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination in Central America.

Where to find accomodation in San Carlos

San Carlos is a city located in the south of Nicaragua, close to the border with Costa Rica, and it's a departure point for trips to Solentiname Islands and the Rio San Juan. If you want to be close to the city center and the main attractions, it's best to find accommodation in the central area of San Carlos, near the Plaza de la Revolución or near the port. This area has a good offer of hotels and hostels. Another option is to stay in El Castillo, a small town located on the banks of the Rio San Juan, about 20 kilometers south of San Carlos. El Castillo has beautiful colonial-style houses, some have been turned into hotels or B&B's, and a few budget hostels. It's a great place to stay if you want to explore the Rio San Juan. Finally, another option is to stay in one of the lodges located in the Solentiname Islands, which are very popular for their natural beauty, tranquility, and artisan workshops. The islands are only accessible by boat, but some lodges offer transportation from San Carlos.
You can check hotel prices at San Carlos here:
Booking.com

Is San Carlos a safe destination for tourists?

San Carlos, Nicaragua is generally a safe place for tourists, but like many tourist destinations, it's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It's recommended to take the necessary precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash, not displaying expensive belongings, and avoiding walking alone at night. It's also a good idea to stay informed about the current political and security situation in the country, as there have been occasional periods of unrest and civil unrest in recent years. Overall, traveling with a reputable tour operator or staying in established, well-reviewed accommodations can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in San Carlos.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nicaragua here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Carlos.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Carlos the most?

San Carlos, Nicaragua is a popular destination for different types of travelers, but it's mainly geared towards those who are interested in nature or outdoor activities. For couples, San Carlos is a romantic and tranquil location near the beautiful Lake Nicaragua, where you can enjoy scenic boat rides, hiking, bird watching, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Young people looking for fun may also enjoy San Carlos as it offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking and zip-lining. Additionally, there are several bars and restaurants in the area which can provide a vibrant nighttime atmosphere.
Families can also enjoy the activities in San Carlos together, including visiting a nature reserve, taking a boat ride around the lake, or exploring the town's culture and history.
Overall, San Carlos caters to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are interested in exploring nature and local culture.

How to get around San Carlos

The most common forms of transportation in San Carlos, Nicaragua are taxis, buses, and bicycles. Taxis are readily available and can be flagged down on the street or hired at taxi stands. Buses operate on fixed routes and schedules, making them a cost-effective option for getting around the city. Bicycles can be rented from various shops and hotels, providing a fun and eco-friendly way to explore San Carlos and its surroundings.

What to see around San Carlos

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit as a day trip from San Carlos, Nicaragua: 1. El Castillo - This charming, historic town is located on the banks of the San Juan River and is known for its well-preserved Spanish fortress.
2. Solentiname Islands - A beautiful archipelago composed of four main islands and lots of smaller ones, known for their stunning natural beauty, arts and crafts and friendly locals.
3. San Miguelito beach - A popular beach among San Carlos's locals and visitors, with a relaxed atmosphere and pristine waters.
4. Indio Maiz Biological Reserve - A nature reserve with a vast array of wildlife and plant life, stunning views of the San Juan River, and opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.
5. Granada - This charming colonial city is just a short distance from San Carlos and is home to stunning architecture, cultural landmarks, and great restaurants and cafes.
I hope this helps!
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