Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Historically separated from its eternal rival by the Río Grande de Carazo (which is, pre-
dictably, too polluted for swimming, but worth a wander if you're here), proudly Nicarao
Jinotepe is the capital of Carazo and the closest to a city of any town this side of Masaya.
Sights & Activities
The Spanish colonial-style city is centered on the impressive church,
La Iglesia Parroquial
de Santiago
, with excellent stained glass, and perpetually bustling
Parque Los Chocoyitos
.
Hertylandia
( 2532-3081; admission US$5; )
Nicaragua's first and only theme park was built by
perpetual optimist and popular former Managua mayor Herty Lewites. It's definitely a
half-assed affair, with signs pointing to things that don't exist any more, and walkways
that end abruptly in gaping precipices without guard rails. But the attached water park (in-
cluded in admission) is worth the visit if you are passing through, and offers a big, clean
pool and four vaguely thrilling waterslides. The park is a 1km, US$0.50 cab ride from Ji-
notepe.
AMUSEMENT PARK
Sleeping & Eating
The parque central is packed with food stands and
fritangas
all day long. A block away is
an enormous Super Palí, which is the best grocery store in the region.
Casa Mateo
( 2532-3284; ministeriomateo516.org; BDF, 1½c O; s/d with fan US$15/40, with air-con US$60/
70; )
The friendliest hotel in town comes with a baffling array of options - with/
without balcony or TV; 1st, 2nd or 3rd floor; air-con, fan etc - each varying the price. The
average room is spacious and clean, balconies overlook a quiet pedestrian walkway and
the downstairs restaurant serves up a decent meal.
HOTEL
$$
Buen Provecho
(Plaza Güegüense; dishes US$3-6)
Right around the corner from Casa Mateo, this popular eat-
ery is the best in town. It serves up a cheap buffet lunch and plenty of international favor-
ites from burgers to tacos. Across the small plaza from here is a good cafe and internet
spot.
INTERNATIONAL
$
El Colisseo
NICARAGUAN
$$
