The largest of the countries making up Central America, Nicaragua is also the most undiscovered; thanks to a history of dictatorship, civil war and natural disaster. However, Nicaragua's tourist industry is now enjoying a revival and now is the time to discover a range of delights including wildlife-rich rainforests, colonial-era architecture and an amazing topography, both above and below water, from mountains and lakes, to volcanoes and reefs.

Just 80 kilometres off the coast and a short flight from the capital, Managua, are the islands of Great Corn Island and Little Corn Island. Once ruled by Britain, they are now part of Nicaragua but largely self regulated. Unsurprisingly, Great Corn Island is the larger of the two islands. At 11 kilometres, it offers palm fringed, unspoilt white sand beaches and is uncrowded, peaceful and untouched. The diving is good with a wide and healthy variety of corals, sponges and marine animal life. There is plenty to see, from Nurse Sharks and Eagle Rays to puffers and spotted drums, plus a whole host of Caribbean reef fi sh. If you're into sharks, a visit to the Shark Hole is recommended to see Black-tip Sharks, Reef Sharks, and Bull Sharks.

itineraries

	Costa Rica & Nicaragua - Two Countries, Two Worlds, Two Oceans An action packed 17 day itinerary to combine volcanoes, diving in Catalina Island and the Gulf of Papagayo, Apoyo Lagoon and bountiful Corn Islands	View itinerary
	Nicaragua Highlights A 13 day itinerary taking in the best of the stunning islands and dive spots around Nicaragua.	View itinerary
	The Corn Islands of Nicaragua The Corn Islands are surrounded by a barrier reef system which is a unique underwater ecosystem for snorkelling and scuba diving. Whether snorkelling from the beach or on a dive you can expect to s...	View itinerary