Nicaragua - Solentiname
Situated in the southern-most part of Lake Cocibolca, the Arhipelago of Solentiname is made up of 36 beautiful islands. The Solentiname Islands are easily accessed from the town of San Carlos, along the Río San Juan.
Most famed for the rich history and creativity of its people, the Solentiname Islands are considered to be one of Nicaragua’s best kept secrets. The islands exhibit a long history of ancient civilizations, abundant wildlife, and an incredibly artistically talented people.
Visitors to the Solentiname Islands are sure to experience the intense tranquility of the area with its natural beauty, biodiversity, and rich culture. While the archipelago is sparsely populated, approximately 29 families, their creative work is widely recognized throughout Nicaragua and the world.
In 1966 a priest named Ernesto Cardenal came to Solentiname and started a small church where he promoted Liberation Theology. He also saw the natural artistic talent in the people there and encouraged them to paint about the struggles of daily life and the beautiful natural surroundings.
In 1977 a group of anti-Somoza islanders staged a daring attack on the National Guard post in San Carlos. The dictator retaliated by torching the islands. Ernesto Cardenal formed the Solentiname Development Association and since then, most of the island has been rebuilt. Nowadays, peace has returned to Solentiname and many visit the archipelago for its tranquility and intense natural beauty.
Of the 36 islands, only the four largest are inhabited: Isla Mancarrón, Isla Elvis Chavarría (San Fernando), Isla Donald Guevara, and Isla Moncarroncito. Of the four inhabited islands only Isla Mancarrón and Isla Elvis Chavarría (San Fernando) have facilities for tourists.