Southwestern Nicaragua
Rivas, Nicaragua is located in southwestern Nicaragua and refers to both a city and a department (state). The city of Rivas is the capital of the state and the center and administrative nucleus of the department that has seen amazing growth as the rest of the world discovers the beauty of this region! Bordered on the entire eastern border by Lake Nicaragua and on the west by the Pacific Ocean, Rivas is an important isthmus that was once crucial as a trade route before the Panama Canal was completed. With Costa Rica in the south and the Rio Ochomogo on the north, the department of Rivas is virtually a self-contained paradise! Though somewhat geographically separated from the rest of Nicaragua, Rivas is fully engaged in the political policies of the nation. Long and Rich History
Rivas History
Rivas, Nicaragua has a history that can be traced back to at least 600 AD when a number of indigenous tribes settled the area. Years of peaceful existence changed when the Spanish came to the area in both 1522 and 1524. As a result, the population of the area is an interesting mix of European, Creole, Indian and Mulatto descendants. The city of was officially recognized in 1835, but has many landmarks that predate that date including a famous church built in 1607. In 1855 the American filibuster William Walker stormed the city of Rivas and was driven away after a short battle. William Walker returned in 1865 and was permanently driven out of the region after a valiant stand by brave local Nicaraguans.
Rivas Developing Tourism Destination
The area of Rivas has become very heavily dependant on tourism. From the popular surf and beach destination of San Juan del Sur to the amazing nature of Ometepe Island- the area of Rivas has just about everything that you are looking for on your vacation to Nicaragua! The beautiful Volcan Concepcion, miles of unspoiled beaches, turtle nesting and some of the best sports fishing in Nicaragua can be found in Rivas- this is a vacation Paradise!