See new sights with nine days in Nicaragua

PRIME — March 2012 International Expeditions, a pioneer of authentic and engaging ecotourism, is introducing a new 2012 tour to Nicaragua, combining premier wildlife reserves, colonial architecture and culture, and the best accommodations for a discerning audience. While once heralded as an exceptional destination for only the most intrepid travelers, Nicaragua is quickly gaining a reputation for offering some of Latin America's most pristine and uncrowded natural attractions. From quaint cities bursting with colonial architecture and a colorful past, to striking volcanoes, where green parakeets live amid the sulfurous smoke of a steaming crater, International Expeditions' new Nicaragua tour offers a range of natural and cultural delights. And for those who want to take in tropical landscapes and vibrant wildlife in a safe and crowd-free environment, travel to Nicaragua, where you can enjoy a retreat that's still "undiscovered" by the masses. IE is thrilled to introduce our newest program spending nine days in Nicaragua's premier wildlife reserves and the historic towns of Le n and Granada, all while enjoying grand, colonial accommodations. Plus, you'll have the pleasure of traveling with one of Nicaragua's original naturalists. "Nicaragua is really a pristine version of Costa Rica before the crowds and five-star resorts moved in," said Bill Robison, IE Director of Program Development. "We've had an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the program because our travelers want to explore this former 'backpacker-only' destination before it becomes mainstream." Guests on International Expeditions' nine-day, small-group itinerary enjoy Nicaragua's best nature travel areas — Juan Venado Island Reserve, Selva Negra Private Reserve, Montibelli Private Reserve, Chocoyero Reserve, Mombacho Reserve, Masaya Reserve and Lake Nicaragua. On naturalist-guided hikes and boating excursions, guests search for vibrant birdlife, including quetzals, toucans and "Chocoyo Coludo" — or green parakeets. Seasoned naturalist guides are a hallmark of International Expeditions' tours, and Nicaragua guests will travel with some of this country's best. Juan Carlos Mendoza is Nicaragua's first licensed naturalist guide, and Edgar Casta eda worked on teams that created the first marine park on the Pacific coast and made the first map of Nicaragua's Pacific coral reefs. Both men are part of the organization cataloging newly spotted species for the country's first bird book. This Nicaragua tour also exposes guests to the charming colonial cities of Le n and Granada. Travelers enjoy both locally guided walking tours and time at leisure to take in the architecture, art and history of these atmospheric cities. Three departures are being offered for International Expeditions' Nicaragua tour — April 14, 21 and 28. To ensure a deeply personal experience, the group size is limited to just 18. Prices start at $3,198 and include transfers, most meals, bottled water and tips to porters, wait staff, drivers and local tour guides. For more information or a brochure, contact International Expeditions at 1-800-633-4734, nature@ietravel.com or http://www.IEtravel.com. About International Expeditions When you travel with International Expeditions, you travel with a company that not only shows you some of the most remarkable places in the world - but does so in a way that's as enriching as we can make it. Our escorted tours, planned and continuously refined over almost three decades, include many elements that would be next to impossible to do otherwise. On our rainforest tours, for example, we'll take you further into the reserves than anyone else, so that you have the chance for some exceptional sightings. And as you learn, you'll also have a lot of fun and laughter - the joy that comes from making new discoveries in the company of friends who share in the excitement. Our escorted tours are companionable adventures. Our unique itineraries and trail-blazing spirit have led International Expeditions to be awarded as one of the Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine (2008 & 2009). We are proud to be included on Travel and Leisure magazine's list of "World's Best" tour operators and safari outfitters for the fifth consecutive year (2004-2010). Our Amazon River tour was recognized in National Geographic Adventure magazine as one of the "25 Greatest Adventures in the World," and by renowned writer Patricia Schultz as one of the 1,000 Places To See Before You Die. Our Web site was voted part of the "Best of the Web" by Forbes magazine. These and other honors are a testament to our mission of providing guests with the very best experiences we possibly can, and to the passion and dedication that our staff members bring to their work. In 1990, International Expeditions helped to form The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) by providing the major source of funding, and our founder and former president, Richard Ryel, also served as a member of the original board. TIES works to bring communities, conservation and sustainable travel together to promote ecotourism trips to natural areas, while conserving the environment and improving the well-being of local people. For more information on The International Ecotourism Society, please visit: www.ecotourism.org. — courtesy of International Expeditions
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