History

Bigfoot Nicaragua is Located in the city of Leon, one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Nicaragua. The beautiful Leon department has much to offer. In addition to the colonial city of León, you can also find many small, picturesque towns and villages, some of which border the Pacific Ocean, great for sun and beach activities. Also found in Leon is the Maribos Volcano range, the ruins of Leon Viejo and many other attractions. The city of León is located about 100 km from Managua and can be easily reached by the new highway.

León has always been one of the most important cities of Nicaragua, both from an economical as well as cultural perspective. The city of Leon was the first capital of Nicaragua and has functioned several times as the capital city after Nicaragua's independence from Spain in 1821. Leon and Granada spent many years fighting to be the capital city, however in the end Managua was chosen as the capital city.

León is still on of the most architecturally interesting cities in Nicaragua. The city centre is made up of many old, colonial houses, streets, monuments, and churches. Around the corner from Bigfoot hostel is the largest cathedral in all of Central America. The fascinating churches of La Merced, El Calvario, San Juan, San Francisco, Sutiaba and La Recolección are also within easy walking distance of the hostel. León was crowned the capital of the revolution due its crucial role in the uprising against the regime of the Somoza dictatorship in the 1970's. There was a strong Sandinista-movement in the area, which emerged mostly from the students who studied at the University of León, one of the first universities in Central America. There are still many related museums and monuments to be found in the city.

Despite its turbulent history Nicaragua is now the SAFEST COUNTRY IN CENTRAL AMERICA.

The Beach

The beaches of Poneloya and Las Peñitas are excellent beaches to take in some sun and enjoy a wealth of beach activities. These little towns are located less than 25 kilometers from León (about 35 minutes in car). Both of these towns are characterized by a wide beach, great swimming possibilities, and a relaxed, tranquil atmosphere.

A little further away from city but still within the Leon department you will find numerous empty beaches that have some of the best UNCROWDED WAVES in Nicaragua perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers.

The beaches close in the Leon offer it all. So whether you are on a surf trip, learning to surf or simply want to relax then you will find it all.

The gem of the beaches close to Leon is the Isla Juan Venado Reserve. This narrow, long-stretched island has empty beaches and is home to wildlife such as crocodiles, sea turtles, abundant bird life and a variety of mammals. This beautiful reserve is easily accessed from the beaches close to Leon and can be explored by kayak or boat.

Volcanoes

One of the most fascinating attractions of the department of León is the volcanoes. The so-called Maribios Range cuts through the department, this unique backdrop gives Leon a striking image. From locations around Leon including the top of the cathedral and the coast you are struck with this striking image of volcanoes such as the tallest volcano in Nicaragua - San Cristobal.

Among the volcanoes are the youngest of Central America: the Cerro Negro. This black hill offers great possibilities for hiking as well as for volcano boarding. Another climb can be realized at the Telica Volcano, which has a huge crater and fantastic views. One of Nicaragua's most remarkable volcanoes is also located in León: the Momotombo. This active volcano is one of the most challenging volcanoes in Nicaragua to climb, but your efforts will be rewarded with splendid views and spectacular surroundings. A volcano that is hard to reach but also great to climb is the El Hoyo volcano, which has an odd hole on one of its slopes. Green Pathways Tours offers fully guided hikes to all the volcanoes in Nicaragua.