Overview
Jinotega is known as the "City of Mists" due to the magnificent wisps of cloud feathering the valley at 1,010 m elevation. The city is surrounded by the Dariense Isabelia mountain ranges and enjoys a cool climate of 25-27°C, offering a refreshing contrast to the lowland heat.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Hotels range from US$4-100 per night. La Biosfera Cloud Forest Retreat offers dorms and cabins 4 km out of town. Budget hostels with Wi-Fi available near center.
Connectivity
Internet cafes are available throughout the city. International phone calls can be made cheaply at cafes with phone booths.
Culture
Fiesta de la Cruz on May 3 is a three-century-old festival with pilgrimage and the traditional corn wine Agualoja. The area has a rich revolutionary history tied to Augusto C. Sandino.
Food
Mercado Municipal food court offers meals from C$30. La Perrera on Matagalpa highway is a top restaurant at C$50-140. Pizza slices available for C$10 at Pizza Movil Express.
Money
Local currency is Nicaraguan córdobas (C$). Supermarkets and some restaurants accept cards, but markets and smaller establishments are often cash-only.
Safety
Jinotega is considered very safe to walk around, even in shabbier-looking areas. Use normal urban precautions.
Transport
Taxis cost C$10 per person within town, C$35 at night. Agree on price before entering. Buses to nearby cities are frequent and cheap (C$35-110).
Weather
Cool mountain climate at 1,010 m elevation, normally 25-27°C with extremes of 13-33°C. Known as the "City of Mists" for its cloud cover.
