SOLENTINAME AND THE RÍO SAN JUAN

The San Juan River carries the waters of Lake Cocibolca gently out to the Caribbean through a green and uniquely lush landscape of cattle ranches interspersed with some of Nicaragua’s most extensive nature and wildlife reserves. It’s not easy to get here, and thornier still to get around, but if you’ve got the patience and determination, this lonely corner of Nicaragua may well surprise you. Hop a wooden panga, motor through the still waters of the Solentiname archipelago, or watch the sun set over the watery horizon. Wander along the ramparts of a colonial-era fortress, or meet an eclectic community of artists. The southern end of Cocibolca and the Río San Juan offer as many adventures as you’re willing to pursue.

La Isla Elvis Chavarría: One of the Solentiname Archipelago’s jewels, “La Elvis” features a museum, a hiking trail, an arboretum, and a wonderful host community of farmers, fishers, and artists. (read more)

Los Guatuzos Wildlife Refuge and Centro Ecológico: One of the best places in the south to get down and dirty with nature; start by identifying a few of the 389 species of tropical birds. (read more)

Montecristo River Resort: A cushy destination or launch pad to get further downstream. (read more)

El Castillo: The mighty embattlements of this historic mud-river fortress have watched over the river since the days pirates prowled the Spanish Mainland. (read more)

Gran Reserva Biológica Río Indio-Maíz: This massive swath of protected virgin rainforest is accessed at various points down the river, starting at the confluence with the Río Bartola. (read more)