Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wildlife
Nicaragua is home to an impressive array of tropical ecosystems, each offering their own
outstanding wildlife-spotting opportunities.
The best spots to see big animals is in the tropical rainforests of the Reserva Bíologica
Indio-Maíz and the Reserva de Biosfera Bosawás. One of the rarest ecosystems in the
world is the cloud forest, a cool, misty tropical rainforest above 1200m, offering opportun-
ities for seeing wildlife, most famously colorful quetzals and orchids. The easiest to see is
at Volcán Mombacho, with easy access from Granada.
Nicaragua's Pacific coast is a haven for literally hundreds of thousands of nesting turtles
each year, and some of their nesting sites are surprisingly accessible. In the San Juan del
Sur area, you're within easy reach of Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor and Refugio de
Vida Silvestre Río Escalante Chacocente. There's more turtle action further north at
Reserva Natural Volcán Cosigüina.
Birders will also be drawn to Nicaragua's sweet-water wetlands and jungle-lined rivers,
which offer outstanding birding opportunities.
