TRAVEL Nicaragua’s Corn Islands: A Crossroads of History, Culture, and Adventure – by Carlos Lander, Caracas, Venezuela Carlos is a self-taught amateur archaeologist, author, programmer, and statistician with over 25 years diving experience.
Nicaragua’s Corn Islands embody a lay- ered, turbulent history – including clashes among the Kukras, Miskitos, Europeans, and pirates. A Brief History: The islands were de-
Travelers can also choose a more adventurous route via ferry from Bluefields Pier, departing Wednesday and Sat- urday, with a crossing time of roughly seven hours. Little Corn Island is accessible via small public boats or private charters from Big Corn. The islands host only three dive centers, typically charging around US$35 per dive – a great value given the pristine environment. Travel Planning: For remote destinations like these, using a travel agency is wise. While the region is safe and welcoming, logistics can be unpredictable, making it impor- tant to plan carefully and confirm arrangements with your hotel and dive center. When possible, speak directly with the owner or manager.
scribed by Alexander Olivier Esquemeling in The Bucca- neers of America, a period when England used pirates and buccaneers to counter Spanish and Portuguese influence. Pirates settled along this coast extensively, forming a net- work linked to colonial trade, exploration, and British pro- tectorates. The British established settlements and introduced traders and missionaries from England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. Cotton production soon flourished, with Liverpool becoming the primary destination for ex- ports.
A highly recommended option is Las Palmeras Hotel & Dive Center, operated by Italian instructor Clara Lonardi. She offers PADI courses from Discover Scuba through Di- vemaster and can customize pack- ages for dive shops and professionals, including group dis- counts. The center also leads an im- pressive conservation initiative, partnering with Nicaraguan univer- sities on coral restoration, artificial
By 1894, the islands petitioned to join Nicaragua, settling long- standing territorial disputes with Colombia and Costa Rica.
Creole Voices and Flavors: British influence lingers in the names of local communities – Corn Islands, Bluefields, Pearl La- goon – and in the region’s Creole language, a blend of Miskito, Afro-Caribbean, and English her- itage. This fusion is also reflected in the islands’ culture and cuisine. Island Adventures: The Corn Islands offer adventure in every direction. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive along vi- brant coral reefs, charter a boat for cruising and fishing, paddle kayaks through tranquil lagoons, or explore natural landscapes on horseback. The variety of activities ensures something for every traveler. How to Get There: Travel to the islands from the U.S. generally involves routing through Managua, Nicaragua, fol- lowed by a domestic flight. Direct international flights from Miami, Houston, or Atlanta are available on Copa, Avianca, United, and American, often averaging around US$300 round-trip from Miami. From Managua, daily domestic flights depart from the terminal adjacent to Augusto Cesar Sandino Airport and reach Big Corn Island in about 90 minutes. Local taxis provide the easiest transport to hotels.
reefs, and nursery development. Diving Spots on Little Corn: Most dive sites lie just 10 minutes from Little Corn. North side: shallow coral gardens with nurse sharks, ▪ stingrays, and turtles – ideal for photography. East side: rocky terrain with tunnels and caverns, ▪ where hammerheads and larger pelagics may appear. West side: one site reaching 26 meters (85 feet), rich ▪ in invertebrates. South side: home to Yellowtail, a soft coral reef teem- ▪ ing with tropical fish. Divers should also request Stanley Reef, White Holes,
Tarpon Channel, and especially Blowing Rock – a dramatic submerged pinnacle filled with corals, sharks, and rays. Blowing Rock requires perfect conditions, a one-hour boat ride, and a minimum of six advanced divers.
email Carlos
PAGE FIFTY | SCUBA DIVING INDUSTRY
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker