Rivas - Discovering Nicaragua

Travelling to Rivas

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Rivas, 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 Rivas 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 Rivas, 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 Rivas for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Rivas

Rivas is a city and municipality located in the southwestern part of Nicaragua, near the Pacific coast. It is the capital of the department of Rivas and has a population of approximately 40,000 people. The city is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and is a hub for agriculture and tourism. Rivas is also the gateway to many popular tourist destinations in Nicaragua, such as San Juan del Sur, Ometepe Island, and the beaches of Tola.

What to visit in Rivas

Sure, here are the tourist attractions in Rivas, Nicaragua along with some summary information: 1. Isla de Ometepe - A beautiful volcanic island located in the middle of Lake Nicaragua. It offers nature walks, hiking trails, and stunning beaches.
2. Las Peñitas - This beach town features a picturesque coastline and opportunities for surfing and fishing.
3. Rivas Cathedral - A historic cathedral located downtown that hosts unique religious and cultural events.
4. San Juan del Sur - A popular beach town known for its great surfing, stunning beaches, and bustling nightlife.
5. Charco Verde Natural Reserve - A nature reserve that features a picturesque lagoon and a variety of wildlife.
6. La Flor Wildlife Refuge - A refuge home to a diverse range of wildlife including sea turtles which are an attraction during nesting seasons.
7. Masaya Volcano - A volcano located within the Masaya Volcano National Park that offers hiking trails and magnificent views.
8. Granada - A colonial city that is a hub of Nicaraguan culture featuring cathedrals, historic buildings, and museums.
9. Playa Hermosa - A beautiful and less crowded beach where visitors can enjoy lazing about under the sun or engaging in water sports.
10. Mirador de Catarina - A lookout point with a stunning view of Apoyo lagoon and the nearby towns. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs from local handicraft stores.
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 Rivas.

When to go on holiday to Rivas

The best time to visit Rivas, Nicaragua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry with little to no rainfall. The wet season, from May to October, can be humid with heavy rainfall and can make getting around a bit more difficult. However, the landscape is greener and the natural beauty of the area is at its best during this season. So, it really depends on what you are looking to experience during your trip.

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

How to get to Rivas

There are several ways to get to Rivas, Nicaragua. Here are a few options: 1. By Air: The nearest airports to Rivas are Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua, Nicaragua and Liberia International Airport (LIR) in Costa Rica. From either airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Rivas.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services from Managua, Granada, and San Juan del Sur directly to Rivas. The trip from Managua to Rivas takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
3. By Car: If you're planning to drive to Rivas, it's best to rent a car at the airport or in the city and follow the Pan-American Highway until you reach Rivas. The journey takes approximately 2 hours from Managua.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Rivas!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Rivas, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Rivas

Sure, here are some typical foods of Rivas, Nicaragua along with a short description for each of them: 1. Gallo Pinto: A traditional dish made with rice and beans that are fried and mixed together with onions, garlic, and other spices. It's commonly eaten for breakfast.
2. Nacatamal: A type of tamale filled with seasoned pork or chicken, vegetables, and rice, wrapped in a plantain leaf and boiled. It's a popular dish served during special occasions or weekends.
3. Quesillo: A type of cheese that's traditionally wrapped in a fresh tortilla along with pickled onions, sour cream, and salt. It's a popular street food snack in Rivas.
4. Indio Viejo: A hearty stew made with shredded beef or pork, onions, garlic, tomatoes, sweet peppers, and sour orange juice, all cooked in a thick cornmeal broth until tender.
5. Sopa de Mondongo: A soup made with tripe, beef, and vegetables, cooked in a rich and flavorful broth. It's a popular choice for lunch or dinner.
6. Chancho con Yuca: A dish made with boiled yuca (cassava) and fried or roasted pork, served with a side of cabbage and tomato salad. It's a hearty and filling meal that's often served at family gatherings and holidays.
7. Tres Leches Cake: A decadent cake made with three types of milk (evaporated, condensed, and whole), cake flour, butter, and sugar. It's a popular dessert that's served on special occasions and celebrations.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nicaragua here.

Is Rivas an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in Nicaragua, Rivas is not particularly expensive. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and dining options you choose. Generally, you can find budget-friendly accommodations and food options, as well as more luxury options. It's a good idea to research prices in advance and budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Rivas

There are various areas in Rivas, Nicaragua where you can find good accommodation depending on your preferences. Some of the popular areas to stay in Rivas include: 1. San Juan del Sur: This is a popular beach town just 30 minutes from Rivas. It offers a range of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.
2. Tola: This is another beach town located about an hour from Rivas. It has several resorts and beachfront hotels.
3. Rivas city center: If you prefer to stay in the city, the downtown area of Rivas has a few budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
4. Las Salinas: This is a quiet fishing village, located about 45 minutes from Rivas. It has some guesthouses and small inns.
Overall, San Juan del Sur and Tola are the best areas to find accommodation if you want to visit Rivas and enjoy the beaches.
You can check hotel prices at Rivas here:
Booking.com

Is Rivas a safe destination for tourists?

Rivas, Nicaragua is generally considered a safe place for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to take some safety precautions. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's always best to be aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings. Also, it's recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to use a trusted taxi service instead. Additionally, it's important to research any travel advisories or warnings before your trip and follow local customs and laws to avoid any issues. Overall, with proper precautions, Rivas can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
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 Rivas.

What type of travelers will enjoy Rivas the most?

Rivas, Nicaragua offers something for different types of travelers. It depends on what each person is looking for in a vacation. Here's a breakdown of what each type of traveler might enjoy in Rivas: - Couples: Rivas has several beachfront resorts and boutique hotels that offer a romantic ambiance. Couples can enjoy long walks on the beach, sunset views, and a relaxing atmosphere. There are also great restaurants in the area that offer delicious food and intimate settings.
- Young people looking for fun: Rivas is known for its surfing spots, so if you're up for some adventure and adrenaline, this is the place to be. There are also beach clubs and bars in the area where you can enjoy some music and drinks.
- Families: Rivas has several family-friendly activities, such as nature tours, boat rides, and hiking. The beaches are also great for kids to play in the sand and water. Some resorts and hotels offer kids' clubs and babysitting services.
Overall, Rivas is a great destination for those looking for a laid-back beach vacation with opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

How to get around Rivas

The most common form of transportation in Rivas, Nicaragua is buses, taxis, and rickshaws. Buses are the cheapest option and go to most destinations around the city. Taxis are more expensive but offer the convenience of a direct ride to your destination. Rickshaws, also known as cycle rickshaws, are less common but can be a fun and unique way to move around the city. It's important to negotiate the price with rickshaw drivers before getting in. It's also popular to rent a car or motorcycle if you want more independence and flexibility in your travels.

What to see around Rivas

Sure, here are some places that you can visit in a day trip from Rivas: 1. San Juan del Sur - A popular beach town located just 30 minutes away from Rivas. The beach here is stunning, and there are many restaurants and bars in the town.
2. Isla de Ometepe - A large island located in Lake Nicaragua which is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, swimming, and biking.
3. Masaya Volcano - Located 45 minutes away from Rivas is one of Nicaragua's most active and accessible volcanoes. Here you can take hiking tours and watch the lava flows.
4. Granada - A picturesque colonial city located an hour away from Rivas is the oldest city in Central America and attracts tourists due to its colorful facades, centuries-old architecture, and many restaurants.
5. Mombacho Volcano - Located around 1.5 hours from Rivas is a place known to have the best views of Granada. You can hike inside the volcano, hang-gliding, wildlife watching and much more.
6. Catarina - a small village around 40 minutes away from Rivas which is famous for its beautiful gardens and the view of the Laguna de Apoyo, one of the largest and deepest lakes in Nicaragua.
I hope this information helps you!
For every travel information about Nicaragua you can click here.

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