Visit Chontales

The Chontales of Nicaragua are an indigenous group located in the Central American country of Nicaragua. They are believed to have migrated from present-day Honduras or El Salvador between AD 900 and 1300. The Chontales now inhabit the region around Lake Cocibolca, in the departments of Chontales and Boaco.

The people of Chontales live mostly off subsistence farming, growing maize, beans and other crops for their own consumption as well as for selling at local markets. Tourists can experience the traditional way of life by visiting one of several villages around Lake Cocibolca, where they will find a unique combination of pre-Columbian culture with a modern way of life. An interesting place to visit is the Masaya Volcano National Park where visitors can observe lava eruptions from up close while enjoying spectacular views over Lake Cocibolca.

An interesting historical fact about the Chontales is that during colonial times they were among very few groups who managed to successfully resist Spanish domination due to their strong military organization led by Cacique Tamao - a leader who has become a folk hero among them.