The Corn Islands are far removed from the rest of the Nicaraguan Gringo trail. Located on the Caribbean side of Nicaragua, many people choose to catch an expensive ($150-$200) but quick flight from Managua. To save money but lose some time, it is also possible to catch chicken buses from Managua to Bluefield. From Bluefield you can take a ferry to Big Corn Island. However, the water is often rough making the ferry impossible. At this point it is possible to catch a $100 flight from Bluefield to Big Corn Island. Most travelers prefer to stay at Little Corn Island which will require one more speedboat trip.
After all of this work, travelers are greeted by a remote Caribbean paradise. Daily power cuts and a lack of cars and roads remind travelers how removed they are from the mainland. Diving and snorkeling are popular activities. The seafood is fresh and inexpensive. Corn Island is a hassle to get to but many backpackers consider it the highlight of their Nicaragua trip.
