NICARAGUA – My co-founder, Katalina Mayorga, and I created El Camino to curate offbeat experiences for small groups to special locations. We just wrapped up our inaugural trip to Nicaragua in November. Along with eleven adventurous travelers, we zig-zagged, surfed, and swam along the Emerald Coast. We learned the art of rolling cigars, shopped for local crafts in Granada, and bathed in the warm sun. It was epic. We ate together, laughed together, and bonded over the course of nine days. Memories were made and documented on our Instagram feed and by the photographer we send on trips to capture the moments.
Team Nicaragua
El Camino brought eleven amazing travelers to Nicaragua. Obligatory family photo before the adventures begin.
Surfing at Maderas Beach
Our first surf lessons took place at Maderas Beach near Maderas Village. Even though it was raining on and off, travelers were not discouraged and jumped in the water.
Natural Talent
Some of us had never surfed before and yet it was clear it came naturally to some. Matthew caught picture-perfect waves even though this was his first shot at surfing.
Taco Lunch at Maderas Beach
We washed these amazing tacos down with a dragon fruit cocktail. It was bliss as we ate beachside with our toes in the sand.
Family Dinner
All of our dinners at Maderas Village were served family style. There was some serious bonding time over delicious meals.
Catamaran Adventure
We spent the day outside San Juan Del Sur on a catamaran exploring isolated beaches. Jumping from the boat only seemed appropriate.
Swimming to Playa Banca
After anchoring, swimming to isolated beaches from the catamaran was a dream. There was ample time to swim, explore, and snack on ceviche.
Seafood for Dinner
In the morning we shopped the local seafood market at San Juan Del Sur and at night we got to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The lobster was delicious.
Fish Like a Local
One day, we scoured the Emerald Coast, fishing for our dinner. Fishing with a board and string is how the locals do it, and what eleven travelers learned to perfect.
Fishing for Dinner
Drew shows off the first catch of the day.
Tribal Hotel
El Camino travelers stay in style. We posted up at Tribal Hotel in Granada which had impeccable design and lush lodging.
Cigar Factory
We learned the art of rolling cigars at Doña Elba Cigars in Granada.
Masks For Sale
Masaya Market outside of Granada is full of treasures. Beautiful masks were just a few of the local crafts that we snatched up.
Our boys enjoying Popoyo Beach. Relaxing in the sun is the perfect way to end our trip.
Surf Lessons
Last chance for surf lessons! We learn to perfect our surfing skills at Popoyo Beach.
Take a Break
Mid-lesson photoshoot with our boards.
Catch a Wave
Lessons prove to be a success! El Camino traveler Jessica rides to shore.
Adios!
Time to head back, just in time for dinner.
Ocean Dip
After fishing, we anchored and took a dip before we headed back. Some made use of snorkel gear and others chose to float in the salty sea.
WHERE TO NEXT
El Camino is for travelers who want to do more than just escape and explore, who want a deeper understanding of the world and the people around them. We show our commitment to the places we visit by donating ten percent of profits to local social entrepreneurs working to improve their communities, like Grid Alternatives in Nicaragua. Here are our upcoming trips:
Where: Nicaragua When: April 25-May 3 Why:Find out more
Where: Cartagena, Colombia When: May 21–25 or May 28-June 1 Why:Find out more
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