Posted by We were recently driving along the highway, just outside of the town of Masaya when we spotted some youngmen on the side of the road proudly displaying iguanas. I pulled over to snap a photo and learned the following:
1. These iguanas weren’t being sold as pets. They were being sold for the meat.
2. A nice plump iguana goes for approximately $4.35. Yup, that’s right 100 cordobas gets you one of these bad boys. If you’re looking for more bang for your buck you can have both for 180 cordobas or $7.83.
Since taking these shots I’ve learned a bit more about this Nicaraguan custom through an interesting article by another WordPress blogger, Rachel Wyatt Lindsay.
To read about this vegetarian’s experience eating iguana and the link between the Catholic Church and the threat of extinction for iguanas in Nicaragua click here.
Thanks for the pingback guys! I’ve had lots of fun in Nicaragua, and it’s great to read about your adventures. Drop us a line if you come through León, you can come meet our reptilian roof-mates in person!
Hi. Gord and Elisha. The iguana story was very interesting.Have you ,or will you be trying the meat any time soon? Our river guide in Costs Rica told us that the males will fight to the death on occasion.
I don’t think I’ll try iguana meat…. just sayin 🙂
We have not tried the meat, nor do I plan to anytime…soon…or ever! LOL As for Gord I’m sure he’d try it if he had the opportunity to.
Elisha
Iguana is suprisingly good. I had my doubts as well but ended up trying and liking it. It taste like turkey only with a bit more wild flavor. The best description I can give is that it taste like a cross between turkey and caribou. I usually prepare it on the BBQ. Iguana Tandoori is great!