Understand

Prepare for an adventure in the Solentiname Archipelago, located in the southern part of Lake Nicaragua near the vibrant town of San Carlos in the Rio San Juan Region. This remote paradise is not your typical tourist destination with grocery stores and modern amenities. On the Isla Mancarron, you can find a charming Pulperia where you can get essential supplies. The archipelago consists of 36 islands, but only a few are inhabited. The largest islands, Mancarron and San Fernando, offer breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and explore the hidden treasures of the Solentiname Archipelago!

Get in

The islands can only be reached by boat. You have the option to charter a private boat for around $100 per day, or you can take a collective boat from a pier in San Carlos. The boat schedule is available from San Carlos to Solentiname on Tuesdays and Fridays at 1pm, costing C$80. The return trip is on the same days at 4:30am for the same price. If you're lucky, you might even find someone from the island in San Carlos who can give you a ride to the islands.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nacatamales - Nacatamales are a traditional Nicaraguan dish consisting of masa (corn dough), cooked in banana leaves, filled with meat, beans, and spices. The filling typically includes pork, chicken, or beef, along with olives, plantains, and cheese. It's a hearty and flavorful meal often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.

Gallopinto - Gallopinto is a popular Nicaraguan dish made from rice and black beans cooked together with various meats, such as pork, beef, or chicken. The name comes from the Spanish word "gallo," meaning rooster, and "pinto," referring to the speckled appearance of the dish. It is a versatile meal that can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, often accompanied by plantains, avocado, and tortillas.

Vigorón - Vigorón is a traditional Nicaraguan soup featuring thick chunks of yucca (cassava) in a rich broth, often containing meat, such as pork or chicken. The soup also includes ingredients like onions, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and cumin, giving it a robust and slightly spicy flavor. Vigorón is typically served with side dishes like tortillas, sour cream, and cheese, making it a fulfilling and appetizing meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing