White Towns

Those, about a dozen, towns are located on the constantly green hills south of Managua and famous for the colour of their pretty churches.

Catarina is mostly visited because of its viewing point over the Volcan Apoyo, Granada, Lago de Nicaragua and Isla de Ometepe. The local pottery and basket making is also worth a look.

In the small and narrow town of San Juan de Oriente you can buy local crafts, such as pots, vases and plates in any art shop or directly from peoples homes

Diria and Diriomo are located next to each other and named after the indigenous Dirian people. Diria is used as an entrance for hiking down Laguna de Apoyo and has as well a spectacular viewing point, although less famous than the one in Catarina.

Niquinohomo houses a 320-year old church and an extraordinary cemetery with brightly painted tombs and ornaments. The town is also known for being inhabited by witches.

Volcan Masaya makes nice scenery when entering the town Masatepe where the beautiful pastel coloured church as well is worth a look.