Things to do in Leon

It may be the second largest city in Nicaragua, but Leon feels more like a town than a city and, with almost all its key attractions and accommodation being situated within close proximity of the central plaza, everything is within easy walking distance.

Located a short distance from the original settlement (see below), Leon can trace its history back to the 17^th century and early Spanish colonists.

Almost continuously since its inception, Leon engaged in a near continuous tussle with Granada for national dominance and, throughout the years, has gained a reputation within Nicaragua and beyond as a bastion of liberalism, intellectualism and the arts.

This distinct identity remains as strong as ever, evidenced by its large, university population and popularity with backpackers from around the world.

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Things To See & Do In Leon

Aside from those attractions located outside of the city, Leon can easily and safely be explored independently on foot. As with many such colonial-era towns in Central America, half the appeal of Leon is simply wandering around on one’s own, making discoveries of your own and soaking up the undeniable atmosphere.

Leon Viejo (Old Leon)

As mentioned, Leon’s current location is not its original incarnation, that was an approximate 40-minute drive away, close to the banks of Lake Managua. Destroyed by a volcanic disruption in 1610, the city was abandoned and then lost to history until its rediscovery in the 1960s. Partially excavated, Leon Viejo is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and easily explored on the way to or from Leon.

Leon Cathedral

Nicaragua is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, one being the abovementioned Old Leon, the other being Leon Cathedral. Aside from its cultural and architectural significance, one of the most popular features of the Cathedral is the ability to pay a small fee to access its roof.

Art Gallery

In keeping with its intellectual & liberal reputation, Leon is home to one of the best modern art galleries in Latin America, the Ortiz-Gurdián Collection. Not only is the art collection outstanding, so too is the setting.

Volcano Boarding

With its popularity as a backpacker destination, it should come as no surprise that Leon has become something of an adventure and adrenaline tour centre. Most famous of the activities on offer is undoubtedly the opportunity to ‘board’ down nearby Cerro Negro volcano.

Juan Venado Island Nature Reserve

Located a 30-minute drive west of Leon, alongside its Pacific coast, this 20km long barrier island is home to wildlife rich mangroves with a wide variety of birdlife, crocodiles and, at certain times of year, nesting turtles. Best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon, we can arrange private boat or kayak trips to the reserve.