APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB
MAJOR EXCURSION #
DISCOVER NICARAGUA
16 days – 15 nights
Nicaragua Walking and Touring - Natural and Human History
Cities, Volcanoes, Cloud Forest, Lakes and Pacific Beach
OCTOBER 28 – NOVEMBER 12, 2006
Thank you for your interest in our excursion to the Central American country of Nicaragua. Please take time to
read the trip prospectus and itinerary for details We believe that you will find it a very exciting trip and invite
you to join us.
Why Visit Nicaragua?
In today's shrinking planet few countries can boast such an authentic character and culture as Nicaragua.
Nicaragua's unjustly negative image has ironically served to preserve its charm from the hordes of mass tourism.
In addition, the legendary hospitality of the Nicaraguans is obvious to all who visit the country today and has been
noted by visitors to Nicaragua for more than five centuries.
Nicaragua has unique forms of dance, music and festivals, but most of all Nicaragua's culture breaths poetry, the
unrivaled national passion, which has produced some of the most important poets in the history of the Spanish
language. Nicaragua's food is amongst the finest in Latin America with a premium put on fresh ingredients and
generous servings. In addition to the numerous fresh fruits that one expects in the tropics, grilled meats and
fresh fish are complimented by local made cheeses, vine-ripened vegetables, hand made tortillas, fruit drinks,
local beers and Nicaragua's famously smooth rum.
Nicaragua is just now being discovered as a land of great nature reserves. The nature is nothing new it has just
been a well kept secret. The two largest forest reserves in Central America are found in Nicaragua and they are
part of 78 national nature reserves that cover 21,000 km2, more than 18% of its landmass. The reserves protect
a diverse portfolio of ecosystems, flora and fauna. Biodiversity in Nicaragua is so rich that animals are not only
found in parks and distant reserves, but even greater Managua is still home to howler monkeys, deer, iguanas,
toucans and parrots.
What makes Nicaragua land most distinct is its dramatic geography marked by lakes and volcanoes. The thorny
spine of volcanoes that run from Nicaragua's northwestern-most point to the dual-volcano island of Ometepe in
the great lake of Nicaragua includes countless beautiful cones, 14 of which are filled with crystal clear crater
lakes and 7 of which are active. Nicaragua numerous lakes and rivers include Central America's biggest Lake
Nicaragua, which is punctuated by more than 500 volcanic islands that support unique wildlife and hide ancient
indigenous relics.
Nicaragua's rich combination of warm, authentic culture and diverse nature and geography make it a treasure for
travelers. The fact that Nicaragua has not been overrun by tourists means that it is a place where the visitor can
enjoy both the nature and culture of Nicaragua at a relaxed pace and in a unique environment.
Discover Nicaragua is a holiday for those who travel to learn about cultures, experience real nature and truly
relax under a tropical sun. It is a combination of cultural touring, hiking, ecotourism and down time to relax on the
beach. Discover and then recharge your batteries. This is a diverse experience with visits to coffee haciendas,
cigar factories, colonial cities, rural villages, cloud forests, volcanoes, fresh water beaches and Pacific Ocean
beaches. Nicaragua offers such vacations, ones that are full of real culture, real nature and genuine relaxation.
Climate: Nicaragua enjoys an average temperature of 75°F year round. Humidity averages 65%. There are two
seasons, green and dry. The green season is from mid-May to mid-November, the dry season from lateNovember to early-May. Rain during the green season is normally limited to short and powerful bursts with
longer showers at night. The hottest time of year is at the end of the dry season, from March to May, while the
coolest period is from October to January. The most pleasant and beautiful time to visit Nicaragua is from June
to January.
Walking/Hiking: If you are looking for a strenuous hiking trip…this is NOT the trip for you. We will be actively
walking every day, sometimes for many hours. There are hikes scheduled on Days 3, 5, 9,and 11. See itinerary.
El Porvenir: One of the goals of this trip is to get to know and understand the people of Nicaragua. We will visit
a project sponsored by El Porvenir, an organization that was formed to support self-help, community –initialed
water, sanitation and reforestation projects. El Porvenier means “the future”. Clean water means a healthier
future for Nicaraguan children. Included in your trip fee is a $30 pp contribution to El Porvenir. You can learn
more by going to the El Porvenier website (www.elporvenir.org )
El Porvenir's mission
 To improve the standard of living of poor people in Nicaragua through sustainable self-help water,
sanitation and reforestation projects.
El Porvenir’s goals:
 To improve the health of poor people, especially the children, and to reduce infant mortality.
 To lessen the physical burden on women and children of carrying water.
 To support self-help, community-initiated efforts in rural villages
 To transfer to the villagers skills which they can use to improve their lives
 To preserve the watersheds on which the water projects depend.
AREAS WE VISIT
Maderas Volcano - is in the province of Rivas and located on the Island of Ometepe in Lake Nicaragua. At
1,394 meters above sea level, Maderas is usually draped in mist, the vital liquid of its rich cloud forest reserve.
Maderas Volcano is the sleepy twin of Concepción and home to a much more diverse and less disturbed flora
and fauna that includes healthy populations of howler monkeys and Amazon parrots. There are two popular
hikes on the mountain, the first a fairly easy walk up the west side of the volcano through farm land and then
cloud forest ending at a spectacular mountain cascade of more than 40 meters. Average hiking time varies from
1-3 hours up and 1-2 hours down depending on starting point. The second option is a summit hike that is muddy
and trying, but less physical than the ascent of Concepción. Normal climbing time is 3-5 hours with a 2-4 hour
descent. At the summit is a misty, ice cold crater lake. This seemingly extinct crater can be accessed by the
same rustic but charming lodging on Playa Santo Domingo located 1 hour from the cascade trail head and 30
minutes from the summit hike trail.
Masaya Volcano - is in the province of Masaya and could be the most accessible active volcano in the world. A
paved road runs to the summit of the smoking Santiago crater, just 29 km from the center of new Managua. The
park's maximum elevation is 635 meters above sea level measured from the extinct cone of San Fernando
where views of the lake valley are priceless. The ancient caldera houses more than 7 volcanic cones and a
crater lake, all of which are protected by the Masaya Volcano National Park. The park's landscape is a Martian or
moonscape and its most famous residents are the crater dwelling parakeets which live in the toxic inner walls of
the active Santiago crater. Santiago's last eruption was in April of 2001.
Selva Negra Cloud Forest Reserve - is a private reserve in the northern province of Matagalpa. The forest is
part of an organic shade coffee operation and hotel project owned by third generation Nicaraguans of German
origin. The forest is great for hiking, though wildlife tends to be difficult to spot. Howler monkeys are usually
nearby, as well as several species of birds not found south of this mountain range. The coffee hacienda is 100%
ecologically sustainable and part of the attraction for its perfect marriage of idealism and practicality. Both
currents of thought keep 1/3 of this big property forest reserve and lead to the recycling of everything down to the
soapy dishwater. Lodging is cabins located at the edge of Selva Negra's forest reserve overlooking one of the
property's 8 ponds. Selva Negra is located 2 hours and 20 minutes north of Managua.
Concepción Volcano - is in the province of Rivas and located in the western part of massive Lake Nicaragua on
the Island of Ometepe. At 1,610 meters above sea level Concepción Volcano is Nicaragua's second highest
volcano and many believe the most beautiful in Nicaragua. The volcano slopes are a nature reserve, home to
deer and monkeys, as well as numerous legends. Concepción last big lava flow was in 1957, but ash and smoke
eruptions occurred as recently as 1999.
Masaya City - this overgrown village is considered the cradle of folklore in Nicaragua and for good reason.
Masaya good be the richest crafts center in Central America. Famous for its restored 19th century open air
artisan market, every street in Masaya's indigenous Monimbó neighborhood is home to at least one artisan
workshop. The town's residents are best known for their hammocks, but handmade leather, wood and fabric
products are also prevalent. The visitor will often by amused to find the artisans of Monimbó making crafts that
carry the name Honduras, Costa Rica, Panama and even Guatemala. The reason is simple, much of the "native"
crafts of those countries are made in Masaya by the artisans of Monimbó. Masaya can be visited from Managua
or Granada hotels just 30 minutes away.
Catarina - this little colonial period village is a quiet town perched on the lip of the Apoyo Crater Lake is best
known for its nurseries which overflow onto the streets with potted plants and flowers. The visitor will also
encounter bamboo basket weavers and wood workers. Catarina can be visited from Managua (one hour) or
Granada (30 minutes) hotels.
San Juan de Oriente - the most famous ceramic village in Central America that sports a restored 16th century
church. The populace of this indigenous village has been making ceramics for more than 2,000 years and 85%
of its population is working today in pottery production. The town's beautiful earthenware is now known around
the world and a visit to one of the humble workshops is a rewarding experience for lovers of ceramics or visitors
interested in cultural interaction. San Juan de Oriente is next to Catarina.
San Juan del Sur - a broad half-moon bay on Nicaragua's southern Pacific Coast, San Juan del Sur as long
since been discovered by international travelers and its popularity is by and large well deserved. The beautiful
bay is good for swimming, though the water is a bit chilly by Nicaraguan standards. There are numerous lodging
and eating options along the waterfront and the town is an excellent base for exploring other less known
beaches in the region via motorboat. San Juan is 2½ hours from Managua or 2 hours from Granada.
Granada - or the "Gran Sultan" is one of Latin America's most beautiful colonial cities. This ancient town
founded in 1524 on the shores of mighty Lake Nicaragua is full of history and Spanish colonial charm and is
famed as one of the oldest European settlements in the western hemisphere. The city's precious architecture
and history is unforgettable as is lodging in a beautifully restored colonial home at one of its fine hotels. There is
not more famous destination inside Nicaragua, with visitors coming from around the world to enjoy its timeless
beauty and quiet charm. Granada is also a great jumping off point to visit numerous nature reserves, beaches
and villages in the region.
León - set between the Pacific Ocean and a jagged range of active volcanoes León was Nicaragua's colonial
capitol for 297 years. This city is home to more than 12 colonial period churches, each one unique in its design
from tiny parish size chapels to the mighty Cathedral, Central America's largest church. León is also the home of
Nicaragua's greatest passion, poetry, the origin of numerous internationally renowned poets, including the
national hero Rubén Darío, considered one the Spanish language's 5 greatest literary figures. León has two very
good hotels, and is perfect for setting off to visit Nicaragua's Maribios Volcanoes for hiking or kayaking the Juan
Venado Nature Reserve.
Masaya - the name of both the province and its principle city. Masaya is the most densely populated region in
Nicaragua and home to some of its best kept traditions which includes the making of the world's finest
hammocks. The city has a late 19th century open-air market which has been restored and is a fine place to shop
for local made goods.
Masaya Volcano National Park - home to five cones and an active crater, Santiago, which last erupted in April
of 2001. The park is great for hiking with sweeping vistas. The most famous of its wildlife are the crater dwelling
parakeets which defy the toxic environment of Santiago crater to nest away from predators.
León - León, Nicaragua was founded in its current location in 1610. León was the colonial capital of Nicaragua
until independence from Spain in 1821. Since then it has continued as a university town, home to intellectuals,
revolutionaries and poets. The city of León, Nicaragua has more than a dozen charming colonial churches within
8 blocks of the city center and houses the biggest temple in Central America, the Cathedral of León, 113 years in
the making.
Granada - Granada, Nicaragua, founded in 1524, is one of the oldest European settlements in the Americas.
Granada was the economic capital of Nicaragua in colonial times, the scene of William Walker's failed attempt at
North American re-colonization. Granada is now rapidly becoming famous on the world stage as the most
important tourism destination in Nicaragua for its lake front beauty and splendid colonial homes.
Selva Negra - Spanish for black forest, a private organic coffee plantation, cloud forest reserve and hotel owned
and operated by descendants of German immigrants. The reserve is home to howler monkeys and a rich bird
life.
San Juan River - 190 km in length, this water passage between Lake Nicaragua and the Caribbean Sea is the
closest thing to a natural canal between the world's two great oceans. The river has a 17th century Spanish
fortress used to fend of pirates and the Indio-Maíz Biological Reserve as its principle attractions.
Ometepe Island - located in western Lake Nicaragua, Isla de Ometepe it is made up of two volcanic cones, one
active, Volcán Concepción and the extinct Volcán Maderas. Both the cones of Isla de Ometepe have nature
reserves and the isthmus connecting the two volcanoes has a long sandy beach. Isla de Ometepe has been
inhabited for at least 3,000 years and houses more than 600 archeological sites.
San Juan del Sur - located on the southern shores of Nicaragua's Pacific Coast, this half-moon bay is quickly
becoming the darling of foreigners escaping over-developed Costa Rican beaches just to the south. First visited
in 1523 by the original Spanish expedition it is now a popular vacation spot for Nicaraguans and visitors.
Nicaragua rental homes are also available near San Juan del Sur, in the nearby home rental complex of Playa El
Coco.
San Jacinto, León - a small village set in the center of the Los Maribios Volcano Range with an interesting
fumarolic field located right on the northern border of the settlement. Known locally as Los Hervideros de San
Jacinto the fumaroles have formed micro-craters of varying size, color and shape. The village is shadowed by
the active Telica Volcano, and extinct cones Volcán Santa Clara and Volcán Rota.
Accommodations:
Managua: Hotel Europeo, located in Managua's quiet gallery district, within one block of two of Managua's finest
modern art galleries and minutes from both the old and new centers of Managua. This quiet personal hotel is
part of a European non-profit organization. The hotel has charming rooms with telephone, private bath, hot
water, A/C and cable TV. The lobby has free Internet service and meals are served in the garden area next to a
swimming pool.
Matagalpa, Cordillera Dariense: Selva Negra Mountain Resort, located in the mountains above the city of
Matagalpa on a sprawling gourmet coffee hacienda and private cloud forest reserve. The coffee hacienda grows
100% organic shade coffee and could be the most ecologically responsible in Central America. Selva Negra's
private cabins of the hotel are also set in the forest with lush gardens and flowers growing out of the cottages'
Bavarian style roofs. Each cabin has a living room with cable TV and a bedroom and private bath with hot water.
The cloud forest reserve has 14 trails that are crossed by howler monkeys, the quetzal and wild cats among
many other species. The best cloud forest lodge in Nicaragua.
Leon: Hotel Austria, located one block from the cathedral and central park, this is one of the best-run hotels in
Nicaragua with a very warm, efficient and attentive service. Owned and operated by an Austrian Nicaraguan
family, rooms are decorated with solid wood furnishings and are super clean. The hotel restaurant offer
breakfast, lunch and dinner. 17 rooms, private bath, A/C, telephone, cable TV, safe box. León's best located,
best run 3-star hotel.
Granada: Hotel Alhambra, located on central park, facing the cathedral with a great balcony for watching the life
of Granada and dinning or enjoying a drink. This hotel owned and operated by one of the city's oldest families. A
landmark in Granada and convenient to all attractions. The interior of the hotel has an open-air garden and is
smartly decorated with antiques and Nicaraguan art. 56 rooms, private bath, A/C, telephone, cable TV,
swimming pool. Restaurant (not owned or operated by hotel) offer breakfast, lunch and dinner and is best
enjoyed on its long veranda that looks out on Central Park, great for people watching. Granada's best 3 star
hotel.
Ometepe Island, Lake Nicaragua: Hotel Villa Paraiso, located above the Santo Domingo beach on the isthmus
between the two volcanoes that make up the island. Truly a paradisiacal location with a year-round breeze off the
great lake, many exotic plants and outdoor beach and lake view eating in thatched huts. Owned and operated by
an Austrian-Nicaraguan couple, this lodge has great access to attractions on both side of the dual volcano island
and a good kitchen with a varied menu. Rooms are simple bungalows made of wood and brick with private bath
and surrounded by lush gardens. The complex has 25 cabañas, private bath, A/C and a full menu restaurant.
The hotel rooms have no heated water and geckos (harmless, but at times noisy). Ometepe island's best hotel
with the best location.
San Juan del Sur: Hotel Casablanca, located across from the beach, in the center of this small town and
across from town's best seafood restaurant. Owned by a Nicaraguan American couple, this hotel is charming
with a very warm and relaxed staff, lots of precious wood used in construction, hammocks on the communal
front patio and a family atmosphere. The restaurant is for breakfast only. Hotel Casablanca has 14 simple rooms
with private bath, A/C, cable TV. The baths have no heated water. The best located hotel in San Juan del Sur
with friendly service.
Group size: Maximum group size is eighteen.
Meals: We will have breakfasts at our hotels and dinner in local restaurants. The cost of all breakfasts and
dinners is included. At times, when it seems practical….you will be given a sum of money to cover some of your
dinners…and you can choose to dine in a small restaurant that would not work with a large group. You will
ALWAYS have the option of dining with the leaders. You are responsible for the cost of your lunches. We will
stop at small local restaurants…or have a picnic lunch. Your cost for lunches should be no more than $5 per
day….and most likely less.
Travel: All transportation within Nicaragua is included in price of trip. We will travel on an air-conditioned
chartered bus. You will be responsible for your round trip airline tickets from home city to Managua, Nicaragua.
Leaders will assist you in finding the least expensive airline tickets possible. Price of tickets could run from $500
- $700. We will recommend a travel agent that specializes in Latin America travels.
A passport is required by Americans to visit Nicaragua. Be sure that your passport does not expire within the six
months after you return home…..otherwise you will need a new passport. We will check as time draws closer
about the inoculations that are needed or recommended. At this time no VISA is needed for US Citizens.
Trip Leadership
Kathy Didier owns and manages Pembrook in Woodstock, NH. She is an AMC Boston Chapter leader (hiking,
canoeing, and skiing). Kathy leads an average of six week-long Interchapter and Major AMC Excursions each
year. For the past sixteen years, she has led hiking, backpacking, and cultural tours to every continent of the
world. Latin America is Kathy’s favorite. Trips to this part of the world have included different areas of Mexico,
Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Bolivia. Earlier in 2006, Kathy has a group trip to
Antarctica with stops in Chile and Argentina.
Joyce Minosh is an AMC Boston Chapter leader (INTRO & Interchapter) and has led several hikes throughout
New Hampshire and Massachusetts. In September 2004, Joyce and Kathy led a Major Excursion to Cote d’Azur
(French Riviera). They plan to lead a trip to Cinque Terre and Barga in April and September, 2005. Joyce lived
in Europe for six years. She created Westford Connections to lead trips each spring to Paris, Provence and
different locations in Italy. She also wrote the Italian Workbook and the Provence Workbook.
Local Guides: We will employ local guides to provide informational tours. We do this to get a local flavor….but,
also to help support the local economy.
We will coordinate our trip through “TOURS NICARAGUA”
* Named "Nicaragua's Best Tour Operator" by Latin Trade Magazine, Feb. 2004
* License #1756 - Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism (Since 1996)
* Member ANTUR - Nicaraguan Association of Incoming Tour Operators
* Member CANTUR - Nicaraguan National Camera of Tourism
* Member of TIES - The International Ecotourism Society
* Nicaragua Tour Operator for the Sierra Club
* Featured by the London Times, The Observer (England),
Time Out Magazine (New York), World Adventure Magazine (England),
Outside Magazine (USA), CNN Magazine, Travel Weekly (USA),
Discovery Channel, ESPN Outdoors, Latin Trade (USA),
While leaders are trained to administer emergency first aid, the cost of evacuation or any treatment beyond
such first aid will be borne by the participant.
Trip Insurance - Cancellation and Medical
We will provide participants with information and applications for trip insurance. This is not included in the cost
of the trip. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance when you book. This can reimburse you if you
need to cancel last minute due to sickness, family emergency, jury duty, job change, or any other unforeseen
occurrence. It is a good idea to have the offered evacuation insurance as well.
Requirements to Participate
a) To fully enjoy this trip, recent, on-going hiking experience is recommended. If you are a non-hiker, you would
have the option of staying behind when the rest of the group is hiking. You would be on your own during those
times.
b) Adaptability: An important criterion for this trip is the ability to be flexible. Our itinerary could change from day
to day, planes can be delayed, weather could cause changes. Everyone is expected to be able to “roll with the
punches” as much as possible, be cooperative, abide by leader decisions, and add to the total group experience
while enjoying themselves. Safety will always take priority in the leaders’ decisions.
c) Ability to respect the people and customs of Nicaragua
d) Understanding Purpose of Trip This trip is designed for everyone to experience the natural wonders, history
and culture of Ecuador while enjoying the company of fellow hikers. Although each person comes with their own
expectations, this is primarily a group trip. Decisions will be made to benefit the group as a whole.
e) This is a non-smoking trip. Sorry, participants cannot smoke “on the side” as the odor of the smoke
permeates clothing and can be offensive to others on the trip.
Equipment - You provide your own daypack.
Cost Particulars - The cost is $2270.
Included in the price
1. Land transportation by chartered bus and ferry boats in Nicaragua
2. Admission and tours as stated on the Itinerary
3. Accommodations in comfortable hotels (double occupancy)
4. Meals: All breakfasts and seven dinners
5. Bi-lingual Local Guides
6. $30 per person contribution to El Porvenir
6. Two AMC Leaders
7. 10% AMC Administrative Fee
Not included in price
1. Round trip flights from home cities to Nicaragua
2. Airport Taxes
3. Departure fees
3. Gratuities to local guides
4. Optional activities
5. Personal expenditures
6. Meals not included in itinerary….all lunches and eight dinners
7. Costs resulting from illness or injury and emergency evacuation
8. Program changes and delays beyond our control
9. Any pretrip costs such as Passport or anything else not in the above list of “included in the price”
10. Trip Insurance
Payment Schedule – 2006
Registration - $900
May 15 $800
July 15
$570
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation must be in writing - :
a) $250 non-refundable portion
b) Any moneys paid out to vendors and money necessary to keep the trip cost from increasing - causing an
increase for other trip members. Therefore, you should have purchased travel insurance to safe guard
your investment.
Once a trip begins, there is absolutely no refund, partial or full, for any reason.
Registration
A separate application is required for each person. To reserve a space on the trip, please fill out the application
completely, sign the liability form and mail these with your deposit to:
Kathy Didier
PO Box C
Woodstock, NH 03293
Make checks payable to Kathy Didier - AMC Trip. The leaders will promptly review your application. Upon
acceptance, a receipt and additional information will be sent to you. If not accepted, your deposit will be
returned.
If your application is received and accepted after May 15, 2006, please add scheduled payments to the amount
of deposit. Thank you. If you have any questions, please call:
Leaders: Kathy Didier
PO Box C
Woodstock, NH 03293
603-726-3553 (Tele. & FAX)
kdidier@coopresources.net
Joyce Minosh
9 Stone Ridge Rd.
Westford, MA 01886
978-692-2323
westfordconnect@aol.com
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT NICARAGUA IS SUBJECT TO STRIKES, LANDSLIDES, ETC. BE PREPARED
FOR EVENTS BEYOND OUR CONTROL WHICH MAY CAUSE DELAYS AND UNAVOIDABLE CHANGES IN
OUR PROGRAM.
APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB
DISCOVER NICARAGUA
OCTOBER 28 – NOVEMBER 12, 2006
ITINERARY
OCTOBER 28 – NOVEMBER 12, 2006
Discover Nicaragua is a holiday for those who travel to learn about cultures, experience real nature and truly relax under a
tropical sun. It is a combination of cultural touring, ecotourism and down time to relax on the beach. Discover and then
recharge your batteries. This is a diverse experience with visits to coffee haciendas, cigar factories, colonial cities, rural
villages, cloud forests, volcanoes, fresh water beaches and Pacific Ocean beaches. Nicaragua offers such vacations, ones
that are full of real culture, real nature and genuine relaxation.
NICARAGUA CLIMATE: Nicaragua enjoys an average temperature of 27°C year round. Humidity averages 65%. There
are two seasons, green and dry. The green season is from mid-May to mid-November, the dry season from late-November to
early-May. Rain during the green season is normally limited to short and powerful bursts with longer showers at night. The
hottest time of year is at the end of the dry season, from March to May, while the coolest period is from October to January.
The most pleasant and beautiful time to visit Nicaragua is from June to January.
.
DAY 01 – SAT, OCT 28 : MANAGUA
Daytime flights from home cities to Managua, Nicaragua. Airport greeting and transfer to Hotel Europeo in Managua's
quiet gallery district.
DAY 02 – SUN, OCT 29 : CIUDAD DARIO - MATAGALPA - SELVA NEGRA
Tour of the nation’s capital of Managua with visits to key political and cultural sites, including its historic center and to see
the incredible footprints left by the Managua residents of 4,000 BC. Transfer north along the eastern shores of Lake
Managua to the quiet cowboy village of Darío, birthplace of Nicaragua's supreme hero of the same name. Visit with an El
Porvenir non-profit site. El Porvenir is a small but very efficient non-profit that brings essentials like clean drinking water,
sanitation and reforestation to deeply rural Darío and other places around Nicaragua. Continue north into the Cordillera
Dariense and the forest of the Selva Negra coffee hacienda. Selva Negra is a model of sustainability not just for its organic
shade grown coffee, but also for its intensive recycling program. Lodging at Selva Negra Mountain Resort in private cabin.
DAY 03 – MON, OCT 30 : SELVA NEGRA
Coffee tour of the farm at Selva Negra. This completely sustainable coffee hacienda has made groundbreaking use of
recycling and grows a fine altitude shade bean. Time to walk in the quiet cloud forest and enjoy this highland paradise.
Lodging at Selva Negra Mountain Resort in private cabin.
DAY 04 – TUES, OCT 31 : SELVA NEGRA - ESTELÍ - LEON
Transfer through the onion and rice growing region of Sébaco to the cigar capital of Central America, Estelí. Visit to a small
handmade cigar operation to learn about this unique process (Mon-Sat only) then transfer through the rustic mining region
of El Jicaral to the 21 strong Maribios Volcanic Range, 5 of which are active. Stop at the rural village of San Jacinto, in the
middle of the densely active Maribios Volcano chain, to visit with its population and see their fumarolic fields, the result of
water being superheated on a volcanic vein beneath the earth's surface. Transfer to León current location, founded in 1610.
Lodging in historic city center at Hotel Austria.
DAY 05 – WED, NOV 1 : CERRO NEGRO VOLCANO – EL TIGRE CRATER LAKE - LEON
Early departure for the black sand, gravel and lava rock Cerro Negro Volcano slopes. Climb to the summit on the cones
north side with a west face foot sliding decent. Continue hike to El Hoyo Volcano and its mysterious perfect hole in its
western face, hike down to the secluded crater lake, Laguna El Tigre for swimming. Box lunch in route with assistance of
local mountain guide, 4x4 and English speaking guide. Transfer back to León for lodging at Hotel Austria.
DAY 06 –THURS, NOV 2 : LEON – GRANADA
Breakfast at hotel and morning visit to rural school in the León area to meet with schoolchildren in their countryside
classrooms. Deliver school supplies and clothing. Afternoon walking tour of Nicaragua's intellectual and artistic capital
colonial León, with visits to the world famous poet Rubén Darío's house, a colonial home art gallery, some of the city's 12
colonial period churches, which includes Central America's grandest cathedral. Lodging at Hotel Austria.
DAY 07 – FRI, NOV 3 : LEON - LEON VIEJO - GRANADA
Breakfast at hotel and transfer south to the base of the smoking Momotombo Volcano and the archeological site of León
Viejo, now declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site. León Viejo was Nicaragua's first capital before being destroyed by
earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in the late 16th century. It is now being excavated and the tragic history of the site has
come to light. Complete historical tour of this ancient colonial locale. Transfer to Central America's oldest European
settlement, early 16th century Granada. Granada is quickly becoming a must visit for travelers to Central America for its
unique beauty, relaxed atmosphere and great dining possibilities. Private tour of lake front Granada's colonial beauty,
history and art. Lodging on historic central park at Hotel Alhambra.
DAY 08 – SAT, NOV 4 : GRANADA - MOMBACHO VOLCANO - LAS ISLETAS – GRANADA
Breakfast at hotel and transfer to the slopes of the dormant Mombacho Volcano for a canopy tour high up in the cloud
forest. Afternoon visit to the island archipelago of Las Isletas for ocean kayaking in Lake Nicaragua. Lodging at Hotel
Alhambra.
DAY 09 – SUN, NOV 5: INDIGENOUS VILLAGES - MASAYA - GRANADA
Breakfast at Hotel and transfer to the ancient highland villages of "Los Pueblos de la Meseta", for visits to the indigenous
artisan's workshops of Catarina, San Juan de Oriente and Masatepe. All these precious towns have colonial period houses
and churches and a hardworking, native population. After the highland villages, transfer to the historic city of Masaya.
Masaya has been populated for more than 3,000 years and the arrival of the Spanish in the early 16th century organized the
local artisans in small workshops for export. The principle item was hammocks and today Masaya makes the world's finest
hammocks, as well as wood, leather and clothing goods, all created by hand. Masaya's friendly population has restored their
19th century outdoor indigenous market for the sale of their hand made goods. After a visit to the market and a hammock
maker's shop transfer to the active cone of Santiago at the Masaya Volcano National Park for hiking or just observing the
inside of this big smoking crater. Return to Granada and Hotel Alhambra.
DAY 10 – MON, NOV 6: GRANADA - OMETEPE ISLAND
Breakfast and transfer to San Jorge for the ferry to the dual-volcano island of Ometepe. Dock greeting and transfer around
the active cone of Concepción with visit to the ancient indigenous village of Altagracia to see ancient Indian statues in route
to Santo Domingo Beach. Lodging at Hotel Villa Paraiso.
DAY 11 – TUES, NOV 7: OMETEPE ISLAND - MADERAS VOLCANO - PORVENIR RANCH
Morning transfer to the base of the extinct, cloud forest wrapped Maderas Volcano for a 4-5 hour hike to a secluded 40
METER mountain cascade in the forest on the west face of the mountain. Nature viewing in route. , simple box breakfast.
Return to Playa Santo Domingo. Afternoon….optional mountain bike riding to country ranch to view ancient preColumbian petroglyphs. Lodging at Hotel Villa Paraiso.
DAY 12 – WED, NOV 8: OMETEPE ISLAND - SAN JUAN DEL SUR
Breakfast and transfer to Moyogalpa for the ferry to the mainland. Dock greeting in San Jorge and transfer to the lovely
half-moon bay on the Nicaragua Pacific, San Juan del Sur. Lodging beach front at the charming Hotel Casablanca.
DAYS 13 & 14 – THURS & FRI, NOV 9 & 10: SAN JUAN DEL SUR
Breakfasts and days free to enjoy the beach. Lodging at Hotel Casablanca.
DAY 15 – SAT, NOV 11: SAN JUAN DEL SUR - MANAGUA
Breakfast at hotel and transfer north to Managua for lodging at the Hotel Europeo.
DAY 16 – SUN, NOV 12: MANAGUA
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to airport for flight home.
APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB
DISCOVER NICARAGUA
OCTOBER 28 – NOVEMBER 12, 2006
APPLICATION
Please take this form seriously. It must be completed in order to be considered for this trip. Registrants will be
considered on a first come (deposit plus completed forms) first served basis. Each person must fill out a
separate application. Final selection will be determined by the leaders.
NAME: _________________________________
PHONE: hm (
)___________________________
ADDRESS: ______________________________
wk (
)___________________________
______________________________________________ E-Mail Address ________________________
Cell Phone number _____________________________
OCCUPATION: ___________________________
DATE OF BIRTH: _____________
SMOKER: ____
NONSMOKER: ___________
SEX ____ HEIGHT _______ WEIGHT _______
EXPIRATION DATE OF AMC MEMBERSHIP: _____________
NONMEMBER: ______________
PASSPORT NUMBER ______________________________ EXPIRATION DATE ________________
Do you snore: ______________ (Helpful info when assigning roommates.)
EMERGENCY CONTACT:
NAME: ________________________________ PHONE: hm (
ADDRESS: _____________________________
wk (
)___________________________
)__________________________
_______________________________________ RELATIONSHIP: __________________________
From what airport would you like to travel? ___________________
Do you plan to travel with the group? ______ If not, please discuss with trip leader.
Do you plan to extend your trip? __________
Do you want to room with a friend or family member? If so, whom? _____________
If no designation is made, we will match you with another participant of the same sex.
If you are a couple, do you prefer two twin beds or one double bed. If possible we will try to get you the beds of
choice. ___________________
1.
Please be candid about your expectations concerning this trip. Why are you interested in coming on this
trip? Are you able to adapt to group living and changing itineraries?
2. Have you been on a previous guided adventure trip? _____ With Whom? Where? When?
3. Describe the extend of your, hiking experience over the past three years. Include frequency and level of
difficulty.
4. Describe your physical fitness level and any physical activity that you routinely do in order to maintain your
health. Please include types of activities, frequency of each, and duration of exercise.
5. Describe health/medical conditions and any disorders, however slight, for which you take medication. Have
you ever had altitude sickness? List medications and dosages and medications. Describe any chronic disorders
that you have (i.e. knee, ankle, back, etc.)
7. Dietary restrictions/preferences?
8. I have insurance covering injury and health.
Company _________________________ Policy # ____________________
9. How did you hear of this trip?
10. Have you read the detailed description for the trip? Yes ____. ________________________
Signature
Doctor’s note: A note from your doctor certifying that you are in satisfactory health to enjoy and complete
a
trip of this nature is not normally required. At the leaders’ discretion such a note may be required.
As a condition of participating in one of our adventure programs, we require that you read, understand and sign
the contract/release indemnification agreement on this form.
Thank you. Please mail this form along with your deposit ($900 prior to May 1, 2006, $1700 from
May 1 – July 15, 2006 and the full amount of $2270 after July 15, 2006).
Kathy Didier
PO Box C
Woodstock, NH 03293
603-726-3553