Often referred to as the "Pearl of the North" and a center of Nicaragua's coffee production, Matagalpa sits surrounded by hills and mountains in the northern part of the country. Although one of Nicaragua's larger cities, Matagalpa retains a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, as well some good hotels, restaurants and museums dotted around its hilly streets.

It's a comfortable base from which to explore the beautiful surrounding area, where you'll find coffee farms, indigenous communities, waterfalls and incredible mountain views.