Discover the Rich Culture of Esteli Cigar Tours

• HelloHola
  [oh-la]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor
  [por fah-vor]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [pair-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gar, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah kohm-prahr...]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una en punto
  [ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
• Half past (10)Media hora (10)
  [meh-dee-ah oh-rah (deh-eez)]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (pah-rah)]

The city of Esteli, located in the northern highlands of Nicaragua, has a rich history that is closely tied to the cigar industry. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate have made it an ideal location for growing tobacco. In the early 20th century, the first tobacco plantations were established, setting the stage for Esteli to become a central hub for cigar production.

The 1979 Sandinista Revolution was a pivotal moment in Nicaragua's history, and Esteli was at the heart of the conflict. The city was a stronghold for Sandinista forces, and many battles took place here. Despite the turmoil, the local cigar industry demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing to produce high-quality cigars even in the face of adversity.

The 1990s marked a golden era for Esteli's cigar industry. Following the end of the Nicaraguan Civil War, the country experienced a period of economic growth and stability. Esteli's cigar manufacturers capitalized on this opportunity, investing in modern equipment and expanding their operations. This era saw the rise of numerous renowned cigar brands, cementing Esteli's reputation as a world-class cigar-producing region.

Cigar making in Esteli is not just an industry but a cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations. The meticulous process involves growing, harvesting, curing, fermenting, and hand-rolling the tobacco leaves. Each step requires a high level of skill and craftsmanship, reflecting the dedication and pride of the local community. Visitors to Esteli Cigar Tours can witness this artistry firsthand and gain a deep appreciation for the tradition.

In recent years, Esteli's cigar industry has embraced sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of its operations. Efforts include organic farming techniques, water conservation, and fair labor practices. These initiatives not only protect the environment but also enhance the quality of the cigars. As Esteli continues to innovate and adapt, it remains a vital destination for cigar aficionados from around the world.

Esteli is located in the northern part of Nicaragua. The closest international airport is Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua, about 150 kilometers away. From Managua, you can take a bus, rent a car, or use a private shuttle service to reach Esteli. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road.

In Esteli, local taxis and buses are the primary modes of transportation. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. Public buses are available, but they can be crowded and less comfortable. Renting a car is an option if you prefer to explore the area at your own pace.

The official currency in Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO). While some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Esteli accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Esteli, but it's wise to have some cash on hand before arriving.

Esteli is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas in Esteli have higher crime rates, particularly targeting tourists; it is best to stay vigilant and avoid these areas. Ask locals or your hotel for advice on which neighborhoods to avoid.

In case of emergency, dial 118 for police assistance, 128 for medical emergencies, and 115 for fire emergencies. There are local police stations and medical facilities available in Esteli. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in town can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly and comfortably. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive accessories. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices, especially in religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful of fellow passengers. Don’t occupy seats reserved for elderly or disabled individuals. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Esteli like a local, visit the local markets such as Mercado Central where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Nicaraguan goods. Engage with locals, many of whom are friendly and eager to share stories about the area’s rich history and culture. Don’t miss exploring the tobacco plantations and cigar factories, which are integral to Esteli’s identity. For a unique experience, take a walk along the Esteli River or hike in the nearby Tisey Estanzuela Natural Reserve for stunning views and a taste of the local flora and fauna.