Discover Nicaragua: Travel, Culture and Music
Nicaragua is one of Central America’s best kept secrets. A country of colonial cities, Pacific beaches, volcanoes, cloud forests, and a musical tradition as warm as its people. For travellers who want more than a resort and a checklist, Nicaragua rewards curiosity in a way few destinations still do.
This is the country NICW calls home. Every workshop we run is built around it, and every participant leaves understanding why.
Travel with purpose in Nicaragua
Most trips to Nicaragua are built around a checklist. Volcano, cathedral, beach, market, home. NICW is built around something else.
Travelling with purpose means arriving with intention and leaving having actually met the place. Singing in the cathedral rather than photographing it. Rehearsing with Nicaraguan musicians rather than watching them perform. Sharing meals with people who live in Granada, walking through León with someone who grew up in it.
A country becomes real when you contribute something to it rather than just observing it. For NICW participants, that contribution is music. For any traveller, it is time, attention, and openness.
"One of the best trips I have taken because it combined my favourite things: making music, spending time on the ocean, and mingling with locals."
A country waiting to be discovered
Compared with its better-known neighbours, Nicaragua sees a fraction of the tourism. That is precisely its appeal. Streets are unhurried. Restaurants are family run. Musicians play because they mean it. Nicaraguans have a reputation across the region for genuine hospitality, and travellers feel it within hours of arriving.
The country is safe, affordable, and geographically remarkable. Two oceans, dozens of volcanoes, colonial architecture that predates most of North America, and a cultural life that runs deeper than the guidebooks suggest.
For anyone considering a trip to Nicaragua with purpose behind it, this is a country that gives back more than it asks.
Things to do in Nicaragua
NICW itineraries are built around the experiences that make Nicaragua unforgettable. The list below is what past participants have done, not a menu of add-ons.
Explore colonial Granada.
Cobblestone streets, painted facades, and one of the oldest cities in the Americas. A walking day in Granada takes in the cathedral, Parque Central, the artisan market, and a slow lunch overlooking Lake Nicaragua.
Visit the cathedral of León
The largest cathedral in Central America and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rooftop views across León, colonial art collections, and, on NICW itineraries, opportunities to sing inside it.
Discover Ometepe Island and Lake Nicaragua
Twin volcanoes rising from freshwater, howler monkeys in the trees, and some of the best swimming in the country.
Climb or overlook the Masaya volcano.
One of the few places on earth where you can look down into an active lava lake after dark. A Masaya volcano tour is a fixture of most NICW itineraries and remains, for many participants, the single most extraordinary evening of the trip.
Spend time in San Juan del Sur
Pacific beaches, sunset walks, boat trips, and a coastal pace that resets everyone who visits. This is where NICW workshops typically begin and end.
Meet Nicaraguan musicians
Every NICW project includes rehearsal and performance alongside local singers and instrumentalists. This is the part that turns a trip into an exchange.
PRE-TOUR PREP
Model recordings, home study aids, annotated (digital) scores, will be provided mid fall Singers in Ottawa may join Ottawa Choral Workshops’ Fall 26 intensive study of Handel’s Messiah, leading to performances with orchestra and soloists in Ottawa in December. The OCW fall workshop will provide comprehensive training and instruction for singers who are new to Messiah or haven’t sung it recently.
Pre-tour rehearsals will be offered on select dates this fall in Ottawa, Montréal, and Toronto to support singers preparing independently. Rehearsals in Nicaragua will focus on interpretation and ensemble, and not be given to learning notes.
Where you will travel with NICW
Every workshop moves through several regions of Nicaragua. Distances are short, and each stop adds something the others cannot.
Managua
The capital, home to the Rubén Darío National Theatre and the setting for major performances.
Granada
Colonial cities and lakeside afternoons. NICW's longest, standing base.
León
Cathedrals, history, and one of Nicaragua's strongest choral traditions.
San Juan del Sur
Pacific coastline. Rest, rehearsal, and reflection.
Ometepe & beyond.
Volcanic islands, cloud forests, and the parts of Nicaragua most visitors never see.
Music, culture and Nicaragua
Nicaragua has a strong choral tradition and a genuine appetite for musical exchange. It is why NICW exists here rather than anywhere else.
Every workshop brings Canadian singers together with Nicaraguan musicians to rehearse and perform. Past collaborations have included Vivaldi’s Gloria, a traditional Nicaraguan mass, and, in 2027, performances of Handel’s Messiah at the Rubén Darío National Theatre as invited guests.
For experienced choral singers, this is the rare chance to perform seriously abroad, learn from musicians outside your own tradition, and see a country from the inside rather than the tour bus window.
If that combination sounds like what you have been looking for, NICW 27 is the current project.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Nicaragua?
The best time to visit Nicaragua depends on the experiences you want to enjoy. NICW programs combine cultural exploration, music, and travel across several regions of Nicaragua.
Is Nicaragua safe for travelers?
Nicaragua offers a range of destinations and experiences for travelers, including colonial cities, coastal areas, volcanoes, and cultural attractions. Travelers should plan their trip carefully and consider current travel guidance.
Can I travel to Nicaragua without joining a NICW workshop?
Yes. You can explore Nicaragua independently, while NICW offers a different way to experience the country through music, cultural exchange, local connections, and organized travel experiences.
What can I see on a trip to Nicaragua?
A trip to Nicaragua can include destinations such as Granada, León, Managua, San Juan del Sur, Ometepe Island, Lake Nicaragua, and Masaya Volcano.
What makes Nicaragua a good destination for a culture trip?
Nicaragua offers colonial architecture, music, local traditions, historic cities, natural landscapes, and opportunities to interact with local communities, making it suitable for travelers seeking cultural experiences.
What can I see on a trip to Nicaragua?
A trip to Nicaragua can include destinations such as Granada, León, Managua, San Juan del Sur, Ometepe Island, Lake Nicaragua, and Masaya Volcano.
Ready to experience Nicaragua with NICW?
NICW 27 runs from 24 January to 8 February 2027, with performances of Handel’s Messiah at the Rubén Darío National Theatre. Places are limited and experienced choral singers are encouraged to apply early.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Participants Should:
- Be able to prepare music independently
- Enjoy focused and goal-oriented rehearsals
- Enjoy travelling with a group
- Approach new experiences with curiosity, flexibility, and respect
- Enjoy warm weather and lots of sun
- Love singing Handel’s Messiah
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
PREPARING FOR THE TOUR
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
San Juan del Sur (SJdS)
León
Managua
Granada
“Nicaragua is paradise.”
PRE-TOUR PREP
Model recordings, home study aids, annotated (digital) scores, will be provided mid fall Singers in Ottawa may join Ottawa Choral Workshops’ Fall 26 intensive study of Handel’s Messiah, leading to performances with orchestra and soloists in Ottawa in December. The OCW fall workshop will provide comprehensive training and instruction for singers who are new to Messiah or haven’t sung it recently.
Pre-tour rehearsals will be offered on select dates this fall in Ottawa, Montréal, and Toronto to support singers preparing independently. Rehearsals in Nicaragua will focus on interpretation and ensemble, and not be given to learning notes.
REGISTRATION & POLICIES
Program Fee:
- Payment Schedule
- $1,000 CAD deposit ($1,500 for couples registering together) upon registration to secure your place.
- Balance payable in three monthly instalments due November 15, December 15, and January 15.
- Payment for optional excursions will be collected during the tour.
Discounts
- Register by September 1, 2026 and receive a 10% Early Registration Discount.
- Register with another participant and the second participant also receives 10% off.
- A limited number of reduced-fee places may be available for student singers and choral section leaders.
Before registering, participants must review and sign the NICW 27 Participant Agreement & Waiver, which outlines the complete registration process, payment terms, cancellation policy, travel insurance requirements, participant responsibilities, and other important conditions. Contact us with any questions about registration, fees, or payment options.
INTERESTED IN NICW 27
Start with a non-binding Expression of Interest by completing the form below. There is no commitment and no payment required. For quick questions, contact us or send an email to info@nicw.ca or join the mailing list for future updates.
Join Our News Letter
Featured Experience
NICW 2027
Handel’s Messiah in Nicaragua
January 23 – February 8, 2027
Led by Canadian conductor Roland Graham, NICW combines inspiring rehearsals, thoughtfully curated travel, and time to relax and recharge, culminating in performances of Handel’s Messiah alongside Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists.
Led by Canadian conductor Roland Graham, NICW combines inspiring rehearsals, thoughtfully curated travel, and time to relax and recharge, culminating in performances of Handel’s Messiah alongside Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists. In 2027, participants have been invited to become the first ensemble to perform Messiah at Managua’s historic Rubén Darío National Theatre—an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world’s great choral masterpieces as part of a truly unique international musical collaboration.
"Rather than simply presenting concerts abroad, NICW is built around genuine musical exchange—bringing Canadian and Nicaraguan musicians together to rehearse, learn from one another, and perform side by side. The result is more than a concert tour; it's a shared artistic experience created with our hosts, not simply presented to them."
“Additional experiences forthcoming — stay tuned”
past Experiences
NICW 2026
January–February 2026
NICW 2024
February 2024
WHAT MAKES NICW 2027 SPECIAL?
Participants will:
- Perform selections from Handel’s Messiah at the Rubén Darío National Theatre in Managua and Iglesia Xalteva in Granada.
- Rehearse and perform alongside Canadian and Nicaraguan singers, professional orchestra, and soloists.
- Work under the artistic direction of Roland Graham.
- Explore four remarkable destinations, from Pacific beachestcolonial cities.
- Visit volcanoes, museums, historic landmarks, and cultural sites.
- Enjoy free time to relax, explore independently, and escape the Canadian winter.
- Build lasting friendships through music, travel, and international collaboration.
"This tour is a wonderful experience culturally, musically and socially. Nicaragua is a beautiful country, with beautiful, resilient people, and the tour is well-run, well-organized and very well led."
THE JOURNEY
San Juan del Sur
León
Managua
Granada
Along the Way
Nicaragua is paradise."
THE MUSIC
Participants prepare selected choruses in advance before joining Canadian and Nicaraguan singers, professional orchestra, and soloists for an intensive rehearsal and performance period in Nicaragua.
The programe also includes a selection of works by Nicaraguan composers performed with local musicians.
Rehearsals focus on interpretation, ensemble, and musical refinement rather than note-learning, allowing participants to work toward performances of the highest artistic standard.
"Rehearsing and performing with the Nicaraguan choir was my most memorable moment."
READY TO JOIN US?
Retreat • Rehearse • Explore • Perform
Travelling north, the group explores the colonial cities of León and Granada, visits Masaya Volcano National Park, and experiences some of Nicaragua’s most important artistic, historical, and cultural landmarks.
Highlights include León’s internationally respected Ortiz-Gurdián Foundation Art Centre, home to works by Picasso, Warhol, Miró, Chagall, and many of Latin America’s most celebrated artists.
“Rehearsing and performing with the Nicaraguan choir was my most memorable moment.”
Highlights:
- Choral workshops and rehearsals
- Collaboration with Nicaraguan singers
- Performances with professional orchestra and soloists
- Historic cities and cultural experiences
- Natural landscapes and excursions
- Time to relax, explore, and enjoy Nicaragua
- Perform Handel’s Messiah with professional orchestra and soloists
- Collaborate with Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists
- Daily rehearsals and musical coaching
- Explore León, Granada, Managua, and San Juan del Sur
- Visit Masaya Volcano National Park and other carefully selected cultural and natural sites
- Enjoy time to relax, explore independently, and experience Nicaragua’s renowned hospitality
- Build lasting friendships through music and shared travel
The experience concludes with a private, all-inclusive boat excursion—a fitting celebration of two unforgettable weeks of music, friendship, and discovery.
"Nicaragua is paradise."
NICW 2027 At a Glance
Dates
Locations
- San Juan del Sur
- León
- Granada
- Managua
Who Should Apply
NICW is designed for experienced choral singers who enjoy making music at a high level while embracing travel, cultural discovery, and meaningful international collaboration.
Non-singing companions are welcome, subject to availability.
Interested in Learning More?
Package Includes
- Round-trip airfare from Ottawa
- Accommodations
- Ground transportation
- Artistic programming
- Rehearsals and performances
- Selected excursions
- Approximately 50% of meals
Program Fee
$4,650 CAD
Participants travelling from other cities—or wishing to arrange their own flights—are encouraged to inquire about alternative travel arrangements. Registration Incentives
- Early Bird: Register by September 1 and save 10%.
- Travelling together? The second participant receives 10% off when two people register together.
- A limited number of bursaries are available for exceptional young singers.
PREVIOUS WORKSHOPS
The NICW Story
NICW 2024
The Beginning
"One of the best trips I have taken because it combined my favourite things—making music, spending time on the ocean, and mingling with locals."
NICW 2026
Growing the Collaboration
"Interacting with Coro Laudate was the highlight of the trip for me."
