Greytown

Greytown, known locally as San Juan de Nicaragua, sits on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua where the San Juan River meets the sea. Though small in size, this town has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century when it served as a crucial transit point during the California Gold Rush.

The town's architecture still shows traces of its British colonial past, with wooden buildings that have weathered many Caribbean storms. Despite being hit hard by Hurricane Joan in 1988, Greytown has rebuilt while maintaining its historical character.

Surrounded by lush rainforest and wetlands, Greytown serves as a gateway to the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve, one of Nicaragua's most important protected areas. The reserve is home to jaguars, tapirs, and hundreds of bird species that thrive in this untouched environment.

What makes Greytown particularly interesting is its cultural mix - Creole, Rama indigenous people, and mestizo populations all contribute to the town's unique identity. The local cuisine reflects this diversity, featuring coconut-infused seafood dishes that blend Caribbean flavors with traditional Nicaraguan cooking techniques.

Though off the standard tourist path and sometimes challenging to reach, Greytown rewards visitors with authentic experiences and a glimpse into a less-seen side of Nicaragua where history, nature, and diverse cultures come together.