Esteli
City Guide

Welcome to Estelí, the rugged and vibrant heart of Nicaragua's northern highlands. Known as "El Diamante de las Segovias" (the Diamond of the Segovias), this city is a stark contrast to the colonial cities of Granada and León. 

It offers an authentic glimpse into local life, a rich revolutionary history, and serves as a gateway to stunning natural landscapes. Estelí is a destination for travelers who want to experience the real Nicaragua, away from the typical tourist trail.

Practical information

How to get there:

From Managua: Estelí is located about 150 kilometers north of the capital. Express buses from Managua's Mayoreo or Cotran Norte terminals run frequently throughout the day and take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Tourist shuttles are also available for a more direct journey.

From other cities: 

Public buses and microbuses connect Estelí to other major cities in the north and the Pacific, including León, Matagalpa, and Somoto. It is a key stop for travelers heading to the Honduran border.

Best time to visit: 

The dry season, from November to April, is ideal for outdoor activities, especially hiking in the surrounding nature reserves. Estelí's higher elevation gives it a more temperate climate than the lowlands, making it a comfortable place to visit year-round.

Getting around: 

The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot. For destinations outside the city, such as the cigar factories or nature reserves, you can take a local bus, a taxi, or arrange transportation through a tour operator.

Budget: 

Estelí is one of the most affordable cities for travelers in Nicaragua. A daily budget can range from $20 to $40, making it an excellent base for budget-conscious explorers to discover the northern part of the country.

Esteli history

Estelí’s history is defined by both its indigenous roots and its pivotal role in modern Nicaraguan history. The city's name is believed to come from the ancient Mexican words for "eye over the valley," a testament to its location. While the first permanent Spanish settlement was established in 1685, the city's modern identity was forged in fire.

In the late 1970s, Estelí was a major stronghold for the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN). The city was subjected to three intense periods of aerial bombardment by the Somoza regime, which left a trail of destruction. The resilience of the people, however, is evident in the fact that the city was rebuilt. Today, the revolutionary murals found on many of its walls tell the story of this tumultuous period and the struggle for freedom.

What to do in Estelí

Take a cigar Factory Tour: 

Estelí is known as the "cigar capital of the world." The city's perfect climate and soil, combined with the expertise of Cuban refugees who settled here in the 1960s, have made it a hub for premium cigar production. You can take a guided tour of a factory to learn about the entire process, from growing the tobacco to hand-rolling the final product.

Explore the Somoto Canyon: 

Located just a bus ride away from Estelí, Somoto Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder and a must-do activity. You can take a guided tour that involves hiking, rappelling, and swimming through the massive canyon walls. It offers an unforgettable day of adventure and stunning scenery.

Hike the Miraflor nature reserve: 

Just outside Estelí is the Miraflor Nature Reserve, a mosaic of cloud forest and rural farms. It is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, home to over 200 species of orchids and a variety of unique wildlife. You can take a day trip to hike or opt for an immersive experience by staying overnight with a local family on a coffee or organic farm.

Visit Tisey Estanzuela nature reserve: 

This reserve offers a different kind of adventure. You can hike to the Salto de la Estanzuela, a beautiful waterfall, or visit the "Galeria de Piedras," an impressive collection of rock carvings created by a local artist. The reserve also has a stunning viewpoint that provides a panoramic outlook of the volcanoes in the pacific chain.

Discover the murals: 

The revolutionary murals are a defining feature of Estelí. Take a self-guided walking tour to see the dozens of murals scattered throughout the city. They depict scenes from the revolution, local life, and the struggle for social justice, acting as a powerful visual history book of the city and country.

Food & Drink: A Taste of Esteli

Estelí's cuisine is hearty and reflects the agricultural nature of the region.

Best restaurant: Piknic Restaurante

Known for blending international flair with fresh, local Nicaraguan ingredients. It offers a more elevated and modern dining experience than most spots in the city, perfect for a quality dinner after a day of exploring.

Vegatarian option: Cafe Luz

Not strictly vegetarian, but this café is highly regarded for its fresh, healthy options and is very accommodating to plant-based diets. They focus on local produce and a conscious kitchen, plus they support local aid projects.

Local Favorite: Fritanga

For the quintessential local experience, seek out a Fritanga stall, particularly near the main park or bus terminal. This is where you'll find the best carne asada (grilled meat) and the classic quesillo or vigorón served quickly and affordably.

Best Coffeeshop: Bourbon Café

A cozy and welcoming retreat known for serving some of the region's best specialty coffee. It's a great place to relax, read, or get work done, often featuring delicious homemade pastries that are a local favorite.

Best Nightlife: The Local Cigar Lounges

Estelí's nightlife is more subdued. For a unique evening, visit one of the larger cigar factory lounges (like Drew Estate or similar) where you can enjoy a world-class cigar and a local rum or beer in a comfortable, sophisticated setting.

Where to Stay in Esteli

Accommodation in Estelí ranges from simple guesthouses to small hotels. Many travelers choose to stay at a Spanish school or a hostel that organizes tours to the surrounding area

Best Splurge: Hotel Hex Estelí

A modern and reliable choice offering international standards of comfort, spacious rooms, and great amenities. It's a strong option for travelers seeking consistency and modern facilities in the city.

Best Budget: Wally's Place

This place receives exceptional reviews for its super friendly host, spacious and comfortable rooms, and being impeccably clean. It's perfectly located near the northern bus terminal for easy onward travel to places like Somoto Canyon.

Original option: Paysage Cache

While slightly outside the city, this country lodge is a "hidden place in the middle of nature," offering tranquility and beautiful garden views. The hosts often prepare excellent, personalized meals for a truly unique, relaxing experience.

Ready for your adventure in Estelí? 

Hola Hola Tours offers the best tours and transport to help you make the most of your stay. Whether you are learning to roll a cigar or hiking a cloud forest, we have the perfect tour for you. View our tours in Estelí and book now!