Top 7 Things to Do in Nicaragua: Activities in and Around Estelí
Looking for unforgettable things to do in Nicaragua? Whether you’re here to study Spanish or explore the country, Nicaragua offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and community life. At Spanish School Nicaragua, we encourage students to go beyond the classroom and immerse themselves in real Nicaraguan experiences.
Here are 7 of the most popular activities near Estelí that our students and visitors love:
Meet Don Alberto Gutierrez – The Hermit Sculptor of Estelí
Tucked away in the mountains outside Estelí lives Don Alberto Gutierrez, a reclusive yet welcoming artist who has spent over 40 years carving stunning rock sculptures into the cliffs on his property. From lions and elephants to intricate symbols, his imagination and talent are displayed across acres of trails.
Despite living simply in a one-room home without electricity, Don Alberto gladly guides visitors through his private sculpture park, surrounded by trees and plants he’s nurtured into a botanical garden.
2. Visit Ixchen Women’s Medical Clinic
A powerful cultural and humanitarian experience, the Ixchen Clinic in Estelí provides vital health services to women, including cancer screenings. Visit the clinic to support their mission, practice your Spanish with staff, or purchase handmade bracelets that benefit more than 80 cancer patients. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the community
3. Visit Waterfall La Estanzuela
Just minutes from Estelí lies La Estanzuela Waterfall, located in the El Tisey Estanzuela Nature Reserve. The entry fee is only $1 USD, and guided motorcycle tours combining the waterfall and Don Alberto’s farm cost around $15.
This lush, serene area is perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the peaceful beauty of Nicaragua’s countryside.
4. Somoto Canyon tour:
One of the most thrilling things to do in Nicaragua, Somoto Canyon is about 90 minutes north of Estelí. Declared a national monument in 2005, it offers a range of outdoor adventures like:
- Swimming
- Tubing
- Cliff jumping
- Rappelling
- Horseback riding
- Hiking and more
The canyon’s turquoise waters and dramatic rock walls make for an unforgettable day trip
5. Visit the Estelí Market
If you want to learn Spanish in Nicaragua, a great activity for language and cultural immersion is visiting a Nicaraguan market. Discover first-hand the large variety of different fruits and vegetables and other local products. Strike up a conversation with one of the vendors in the market. Observe the preparation of tortillas and other food products each day. Take in the rich variety of colors, smells, and sounds while trying to understand the conversations occurring all around.
6. Enjoy the local coffee in a café
Take a break in the afternoon and visit one of the many cafes and food stalls. Practice your Spanish in ordering coffee, smoothies, ice cream, pastries, or other treats. Meet up with locals or other “extranjeros” for a little conversation or just watch the daily life passing in the street.
7. Visit Miraflor Nature Reserve
About 40 minutes north of Estelí, Miraflor Nature Reserve is a must-see for nature lovers. This cloud forest is filled with orchids, tropical birds, butterflies, and even howler monkeys.
Popular activities include:
- Guided hikes
- Waterfalls and swimming holes
- Natural pools
- Cave exploration
- Visiting the local ceramic workshop and museum
It’s a top weekend destination for tourists and locals alike, offering peace, beauty, and ecological learning.
Experience Nicaragua Beyond the Classroom
At Spanish School Nicaragua, we believe that learning the language also means living the culture. Whether you’re here short-term or long-term, we invite you to explore, connect, and discover the real Nicaragua.
Every experience—whether it’s hiking, shopping, or sharing a coffee—is a step deeper into the rich traditions, warm people, and natural beauty that make this country so special.