Esteli

Esteli, city, northwestern Nicaragua, capital of Esteli Department, in the central highlands at an elevation of about 840 m (about 2750 ft).  It is the administrative, commercial, and manufacturing center for a diversified agricultural and lumbering region.  Wood products and hats are manufactured here.  Esteli was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century.  Prehistoric stone carvings are nearby.  Population (1985 estimate) 30,600. 

Boaco

 The city of "Boaco" sits on two adjacent plateaus and is well known as a cattle city.  Its popular festival honoring Santiago the Apostle takes place on July 25th.  The Lacteal Fair is celebrated in the same month.  Try the delicious white cheeses produced in this region.

"Camoapa", only 25 kms away, is famous for its straw hats and hemp handicrafts.  An important archaeological site to visit is "Cuisatelpe" and its monolith.