should i travel to nicaragua

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory January 11, 2024

Nicaragua - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to  arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability . Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to  crime.

Country Summary : Throughout Nicaragua, government and law enforcement officials continue to target individuals and organizations seen as opponents of President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo. U.S. citizens, including dual Nicaraguan-U.S. citizens, have been subject to revocation of Nicaraguan citizenship, reentry bans, expulsion, and other actions. The government and its affiliated groups have been reported to:

• Arbitrarily prevent individuals from entering or departing Nicaragua by air or land for perceived associations.
• Search personal phones, computers, and documents for anti-government content, limit photography of government property, and sometimes seize devices.
• Systematically target individuals for political reasons, regardless of nationality, including former allies, political activists, business representatives, clergy, human rights advocates, civil society leaders, academics, and members of the press.
• Arbitrarily target pro-democracy advocates and their family members.
• Confiscate privately-owned land, residences, financial assets, and personal property without warning or due process.
• Arbitrarily detain, accuse, and charge individuals with terrorism, money laundering, and organized crime offenses for political reasons without respect for fair trial guarantees.

U.S. citizen residents of Nicaragua also report increased scrutiny of alleged political speech.

U.S. citizens arrested in Nicaragua may find themselves subject to prolonged detention without charges or respect of fair trial guarantees. The judicial process lacks transparency, especially in politically motivated arrests and property dispute cases. Political influence and pressure may influence the outcome of legal proceedings.

The Department has determined the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua exists.

Travelers should exercise increased caution and be alert to the risks of crime, including violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery.

Poor infrastructure in parts of the country limits the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility may be subject to restrictions on their movements at any time.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Nicaragua.

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:

• Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly.
• Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and available for a quick departure from the country, if needed.
• Avoid demonstrations and restrict unnecessary travel.
• Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks.
• Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Do not display signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Nicaragua.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Length of stay.

One page per stamp.

No (90 days or fewer). Tourist card at airport. See Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements below.

Yellow fever (in some cases, see Entry Requirements section).

Must declare $10,000 USD or more in cash.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Managua

Km 5 ½ Carretera Sur Managua, Nicaragua Telephone:  +(505) 2252-7100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(505) 2252-7100 Fax:  +(505) 2252-7250 Email:   [email protected]

Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The Government of Nicaragua has denied entry to or expelled U.S. citizens, including dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens, for political reasons including perceived support for or association with disfavored people or organizations.  The Government’s actions have been taken against NGO workers, academics, religious workers, journalists, and many others.  The Nicaraguan government has revoked residency status for foreign nationals for actions or expressions it perceives as political. Travelers attempting to leave the country have been arrested or denied permission to travel for political reasons. Immigration authorities regularly review social media for evidence of political expression or activity and warn against such activities.    

• For visitors other than tourists , the Government of Nicaragua recommends that you pre-register your trip by following the instructions available on the Nicaraguan immigration website  (in Spanish only).  See  our website  for additional information.  
• All travelers should have an  onward or return ticket  and  evidence of funds  to support yourself while in Nicaragua.  You must carry a valid identity document at all times, such as a U.S. driver’s license or U.S. passport.  
• You must purchase a  tourist card for $10 USD  at the airport (exact change recommended), valid for up to a total of 90 days in any of the member countries of the  Central America-4 Border Control Agreement .  Visitors remaining longer must obtain an extension from Nicaraguan immigration or be subject to large fines.  
• Individuals traveling from countries at risk of yellow fever transmission must show proof of yellow fever vaccination administered at least 10 days before travel to be permitted entry to Nicaragua.   
• If you use a passport of a different nationality than you did on prior trips to Nicaragua, Nicaraguan authorities may deny you entry.  If you possess multiple nationalities, you should carry a valid passport for all of them.  If you have Nicaraguan nationality, you should have both your U.S. and Nicaraguan passports with you.  
• You must  exit Nicaragua with the same passport used for entry .  If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen while in Nicaragua, you will need to  get a new entry stamp from Nicaraguan Immigration  before you can depart by following instructions available on the Nicaraguan immigration website (in Spanish only).  This cannot be done at the airport on departure.  
• There is a  $42 USD tax  that must be paid upon exiting (this tax is normally included in the price of the plane ticket for air travelers).  
• See the  U.S. Embassy website  for information regarding departure requirements for children under 18 who also are Nicaraguan citizens .  
• Nicaraguan government authorities may search personal phones, computers, and documents for anti-government content and sometimes seize such private property.  Equipment such as binoculars, drones, or other items will generally be confiscated without a mechanism to retrieve these items later.  

Advanced Coordination Required for Volunteer Groups:  Please note that the Government of Nicaragua has forced the closure of more than 3,500 NGOs and charitable organizations.  Groups engaged in these types of activities, including the apolitical provision of basic services, may be denied entry.  You should email both the Embassy of Nicaragua in the United States ( [email protected] ) and the Nicaraguan Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( [email protected] ) to inform them of your trip and secure advance permission if you are leading one of the following types of trips, even if your group has worked in Nicaragua previously or has a local office:  

• Volunteer mission;  
• Charitable or medical brigade (the latter also need permission from the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health); or  
• Assistance visit organized by NGOs, religious groups, schools, or any other group doing this type of work in Nicaragua.    

For the latest visa and entry requirements, visit the  Nicaraguan immigration website (Spanish only).  

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Nicaragua.  

Dual Nationality and International Parental Child Abduction :  Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.  

COVID-19 Information:  As of July 21, 2023, the Nicaraguan government lifted all COVID-19 related travel restrictions.  Travelers arriving in Nicaragua do not need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.  

Safety and Security

The Government of Nicaragua is authoritarian, limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, represses internal dissent, and monitors and responds to perceived threats to its authority.  Nicaragua’s Sovereign Security Law and its Terrorism and Money Laundering law allow for discretionary interpretation of often vaguely defined unlawful activities, such as threatening the peace and economic stability of Nicaragua.  Convictions under these laws have often been arbitrary and result in long prison sentences.  

Nicaraguan authorities and armed civilians in plain clothes known as “para police” may monitor, detain, deny entry to, expel, or question U.S. citizens concerning their activities, including their contact with Nicaraguan citizens.  Visitors should avoid any commentary on Nicaraguan politics or governance.  Nicaraguan authorities have subjected U.S. citizens, including dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens, to prolonged detentions which are often politically motivated or arbitrary.  Especially in politically motivated arrests, the judicial process has regularly been criticized as neither fair nor transparent.  

Demonstrations or strikes may occur throughout the country; in the past, the Nicaraguan government has violently suppressed them.  Avoid demonstrations and exercise extreme caution around large gatherings.  

Roads may be closed, and public transportation may be disrupted due to large crowds celebrating the following holidays:  

• Semana Santa (the week before Easter);  
• Repliegue Historico a Masaya (early July);  
• July 19 celebration of the Sandinista Revolution;  
• Celebration in Managua of Santo Domingo, the Patron Saint of the city (August 1st and August 10th);  
• Day of the Nicaraguan Army (September 2);  
• Nicaraguan Independence Day (September 14 and 15); and  
• Immaculate Conception (December 8).   

Crime: Vehicle burglaries, pick-pocketing, and occasional armed robberies occur in store parking lots, on public transportation, and in open-air markets like the Oriental and Huembes Markets in Managua.  Petty street crime is common.  Police presence is extremely limited outside of major urban areas.  The Caribbean Coast’s geographical isolation further limits the U.S. Embassy’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens living in or visiting the area. Uniformed police and para-police commit violence and intimidate civilians throughout the country for political reasons.  

U.S. citizens have been sexually assaulted in beach resort areas. There are no forensic doctors on the Corn Islands , so victims of violent crimes, including sexual assault, must travel to Bluefields at their own expense for medical examinations and collection of evidence.  In several recent cases, police were reluctant to produce police reports or pursue charges .  Please report such incidents to the Embassy.  

Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for victims of crime.  

Exercise extreme caution when renting or driving vehicles.  In one common scam, “Good Samaritans” pull over to help change a flat tire.  While the driver is distracted, an accomplice steals the driver’s possessions.  

Due to crime and other illicit activity, U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are prohibited from entering Managua’s Oriental Market and gentlemen’s clubs throughout the country.  

International Financial Scams:  See the Department of State and the FBI page for information.  

Victims of Crime: Report crimes, including sexual assault, to the local police at 118 (Nicaraguan equivalent of “911,” in Spanish).  Report serious crimes to the U.S. Embassy at 2252-7100 immediately and minor crimes during business hours.  

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .  

The U.S. Embassy can:  

• Help you find appropriate medical care.  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.  
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys.  
• Share information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States .  
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or, limited financial support in cases of destitution.  
• Help you find accommodation and flights home.  
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.  

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  

Coastal Disputes: Be aware of the following border disputes:  

• Nicaragua and Colombia have an ongoing dispute over waters surrounding the San Andres Islands.  
• The Nicaraguan Navy has challenged vessels passing through its exclusive economic zone.  
• Nicaragua and Costa Rica have stationed security forces at Harbor Head (also called Isla Calero) at the eastern end of the San Juan River.  
• Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador have maritime and land disputes over islands and access to fishing rights in the Gulf of Fonseca on the Pacific Coast, a closed sea under international law.  

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are uncommon.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in major cities.  In the event of a diving injury, the only hyperbaric chamber is in Puerto Cabezas, over 100 miles from Corn Island where most tourists dive.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .  

Beach Safety: Exercise caution at the beach. U.S. citizens have drowned at Nicaraguan beaches, and in lagoons and lakes. Warning signs are not always posted.  Lifeguards and rescue equipment are not normally available.   

Hiking in volcanic or remote areas is dangerous.  Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.  Carry sufficient food, water, and communication equipment.  If you travel to remote areas, hire a reputable local guide. Nicaraguan law requires tourists hire a local guide for several volcanoes, including the two volcanoes on Ometepe Island (Maderas and Concepcion).  

Disaster Preparedness: Nicaragua is prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions.  If you are at a coastal area when an earthquake occurs, move swiftly to higher ground (when safe to do so) to avoid possible tsunamis.  

In the event of an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or other natural disaster, U.S. citizens should pay close attention to local media reports. 

• Follow the guidance of local authorities and monitor the websites of the Nicaraguan Institute for Territorial Studies ( INETER ) and the Nicaraguan Emergency Alert System ( SINAPRED ).  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive important emergency information. 
• See the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for information about disaster preparedness.  

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.  

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Nicaragua are severe, even for possession of small amounts of illegal drugs.  
• Even with a prescription, marijuana is illegal in Nicaragua.  

There are severe penalties, including imprisonment, for domestic violence, psychological abuse, and non-payment of child support.  

Arrest Notification: Nicaraguan authorities do not always notify the U.S. Embassy when a U.S. citizen has been arrested or detained, especially if the arrestee has dual nationality.  If you are arrested or detained, ask both police and prison officials and friends or family to notify the U.S. Embassy.  After the U.S. Embassy learns of an arrest, it may be several days or weeks before the Government of Nicaragua permits a consular official to visit.  In the case of dual U.S.-Nicaraguan nationals, the U.S. Embassy may be denied consular access.  See our webpage for further information.  

• The judiciary does not enjoy independence from political influence.  U.S. citizens who have been arrested in Nicaragua may find themselves subject to prolonged detention without charges, often for political reasons.  
• Authorities have ignored or significantly delayed implementing judicial orders to release, deport, expel, or transfer prisoners.  

Purchasing Property: Exercise extreme caution before investing in property.  The Nicaraguan government may confiscate privately owned land or residences without warning or compensation.  Armed individuals have taken over privately owned land.  U.S. citizens have been arrested or threatened over property disputes.  See our website for more information.   

Customs Regulations: U.S. citizens planning to import items should contract a recognized local customs broker for assistance well in advance of their visit.  The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist with the customs or import process.  

• Nicaraguan customs officials may delay or block import of goods, including items intended for donation.  
• If you are planning to bring vehicles or household goods, consult Nicaraguan customs officials prior to shipment.  
• When entering with your vehicle, you must have the original registration and title.  
• Drones and similar devices are not permitted and will be confiscated by Nicaraguan customs authorities.  
• Photography equipment, videography equipment, and binoculars may be subject to seizure by the Nicaraguan customs authorities.  
• Approval from the Ministry of Health’s Pharmacy Department is required to import large quantities of medicine, even for charitable purposes.  
• Before excavating archaeological materials or buying historical artifacts, you must consult with the National Patrimony Directorate of the Nicaraguan Institute of Culture.  Otherwise, severe criminal penalties may apply.   

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:  

• Faith-Based Travel Information   
• International Religious Freedom Report   
• Human Rights Report   
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers   
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Nicaragua.  While violence against LGBTQI+ travelers is uncommon, widespread discrimination exists.  See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details .   

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):   The government of Nicaragua recently forced the closure of more than 3,500 NGOs and charitable organizations.  Employees of NGOs and volunteers supporting NGOs may be denied entry to Nicaragua.  Please see “Advanced Coordination Required for Volunteer Groups” above.  

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: There is limited or no accessibility assistance for public transportation and in many public areas.  There are few sidewalks and pedestrian road crossings.  

While Nicaraguan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, in practice such discrimination is widespread in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services.    

Students: See our Students Abroad page.    

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .  

Government hospitals are understaffed and some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies.  Only basic, limited emergency medical services are available outside Managua.  

• Ambulance services provide transportation and basic first aid only and are unreliable throughout the country.  
• Physicians and hospital personnel frequently do not speak English.  
• Tap water is not reliably potable.  Drink only purified bottled water.  

 The following diseases are prevalent:  

• Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Zika , Dengue fever , and Chikungunya )  
• Upper respiratory viruses (e.g., Influenza)  
• Infectious bacterial diseases (e.g., Typhoid fever and Leptospirosis)  
• Intestinal illnesses (e.g., Giardia)  
• Rabies  

The Department of State does not pay medical bills.  Please be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.   

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Even with health insurance, most care providers overseas require cash payments prior to providing service.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .  We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.  

If traveling with prescription medication, review the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health's Pharmacy Department guidance on entering with pharmaceutical products.  Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging labeled with your doctor’s prescribing information.  

  Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

Further health information:   

• World Health Organization   
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)   

COVID-19 Testing Information:   

• PCR tests are available only through the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health.  The Nicaraguan government prohibits the import of COVID-19 tests.  The U.S. Embassy has received reports of tests being confiscated from U.S. citizen travelers upon arrival in Nicaragua.  
• All testing in Nicaragua is carried out at the National Center for Diagnosis and Reference (CNDR) and the Nicaraguan Institute for Health Investigation (INIS) from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Test results are returned the same day between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. and can usually be downloaded after 4:00 pm.  
• Travelers wishing to be tested must present an identification card (cedula) or passport and their flight itinerary.  The $150 fee must be deposited in either Banpro account 10010012253774 (U.S. dollars) or 10010002253784 (cordobas), both registered under TGR-MINSA.  Cash payments can be made at Conchita Palacios National Health Complex or at the INIS cashier.  

COVID-19 Vaccine Information:   

Sputnik V, AstraZeneca, Covishield, and Pfizer Vaccines are available in Nicaragua for U.S. citizens to receive. Visit the FDA’s website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.   

Covid-19 Medical Evacuation:   

Click here for a list of private companies offering medical evacuation of COVID-19 patients from Nicaragua to the United States. U.S. citizens seeking information about medical evacuation of COVID-19 patients should contact these private companies directly.  

LOCAL RESOURCES:     

• The health ministry has created a 24/7 hotline to call regarding COVID-19 in Nicaragua. To reach the hotline, call +505-8418-9953.  
• Managua Airport website with airline contact information.  

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Main roads between major cities are generally paved and in good condition. Other roads may have potholes, lack shoulders, be poorly lit and narrow.  Speed bumps are often poorly marked.  During the rainy season, roads may become flooded or have additional damage.  Horse carts, livestock, and pedestrians crossing roads in front of oncoming traffic are common, even on major roads in the main cities.  Most roads on the Caribbean Coast are unpaved.  Road signs throughout the country are limited or non-existent.  Road travel after dark is hazardous in all areas.  Carry a cellphone in case of emergency, but understand cell reception may be spotty in many areas of the country.  Do not drive outside urban areas after dark.  

Traffic Laws: If you are involved in a traffic accident, you must wait for the police and insurance company representatives to arrive before you move your vehicle.   However, especially during overnight hours, police and insurance companies may not respond.  Do not move your vehicle, unless a police officer tells you to do so, or you will be legally liable for the accident.    

Nicaraguan law requires that police take a driver into custody for:  

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (the legal limit is 0.05% blood alcohol content); or  
• For being involved in an accident that causes serious injury or death.  

The minimum detention period is 48 hours.  In fatal accidents, drivers are held until they reach a legal settlement with the victim’s family. To avoid liability, consider hiring a professional driver through a reputable hotel.  

All drivers must carry:  

• Driver’s license;  
• Proof of insurance;  
• Vehicle registration;  
• Emergency triangle;  
• Fire extinguisher; and  
• Inspection and registration stickers   

These regulations also apply to drivers in rental vehicles.  Penalties for not having any of the above include fines and towing.  For more information, check with the Nicaraguan National Police or the Embassy of Nicaragua. 

Traffic Stops: Transit police often stop vehicles with either local or foreign license plates.  

• If transit police demand a bribe in lieu of a fine, request a receipt and the officer’s name and badge number.  
• To report mistreatment by police, email a complaint to Nicaragua’s National Police and forward a copy to the U.S. Consular Section in Managua .  
• If you receive a traffic violation, police will confiscate your driver’s license until you pay the fine at a bank.  Depending on your length of stay, you may not be able to recover your license in a timely manner.    

Public Transportation: Buses, moto-taxis, and ferries often lack proper safety equipment.  

• U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use public buses and most taxis (including moto-taxis) due to safety and crime concerns.  
• Use only licensed taxis recommended by airport authorities, major hotels, restaurants, or other trusted sources.  
• Exercise caution in the face of possibly overloaded or unsafe ferries and boats.  Check with local naval or police authorities about the safety of being on the water in local weather conditions.  Most vessels provide insufficient numbers of life vests and other safety equipment.   

Airports in remote locales often have short airstrips, minimal safety equipment, and little boarding security.  

See our Road Safety page for more information and the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism and National Transit Authority .    

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessed the government of Nicaragua’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Nicaragua’s air carrier operations in 2015.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .  

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Nicaragua should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the Maritime Administration website.  Information may also be posted to the websites of the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency .  

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Nicaragua . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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What you should know to travel to Nicaragua?

Nicaragua location.

Central America, between the Caribbean Sea (East), the Pacific Ocean (West), Honduras (North) and Costa Rica (South). Geographic coordinates: 13:00 North, 85:00 West.

WHAT’S NEW ON NICARAGUA ENTRY PROTOCOLS 

The Government of Nicaragua has announced a key change to its travel protocols. Effective Thursday, June 16, 2022, fully-vaccinated travelers to Nicaragua will no longer have to take a COVID-19 test to enter the country.

Vaccinated travelers

The change in protocols states that travelers of all ages and nationalities should only provide at any of the country’s entry ports their vaccination card of two doses or more, independently of the year they were vaccinated.

In addition, those who have received two different doses or have applied only one shot of Sputnik Light or Janssen/J&J will also be eligible for entering with their vaccine card, record, or certificate.

Unvaccinated travelers

Unvaccinated travelers —both children and adults — will require a negative test that should be made within 72 hours prior to arrival. Those who are flying from Asia, Oceania, and Africa will have 92 hours before arriving to make their test.

The only test accepted is RT-PCR. All unvaccinated travelers will have to present digital or printed test results when arriving at the country’s border.

Accepted vaccine

All vaccines approved by the World Health Organization and by the Government of Nicaragua: Sputnik V, Sputnik Light, Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Covishield, Soberana 02, Abdala, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, Sinopharm, and Coviran.

What happens if a traveler shows signs of a fever or respiratory symptoms?

International tourists who have fever or respiratory symptoms upon arrival will not be allowed to enter the country. Nicaragua nationals who have a fever or respiratory symptoms will be allowed to enter the country and be sent to observe a strict quarantine, in keeping with to the biosafety protocol established by the Ministry of Health.

Is it necessary to fill out a form to enter the country?

Non-nationals will have to complete an online immigration form that is available on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is recommended to complete this form at least 7 days before arrival.

The COVID-19 Protocols are sanctioned by the Government of Nicaragua through the Ministry of Health (MINSA).

What you need to know to schedule and receive your Covid-19 test results online in Nicaragua?

On March 16th, The Nicaragua Ministry of Health (MINSA), launched an online system that allows travelers to electronically schedule PCR-Covid-19 tests prior to travel outside of Nicaragua.

During the launch of the online system, the Secretary-General of the Nicaragua Ministry of Health, Carlos Sáenz explained that the test is administered at the Concepción Palacios Healthcare Complex in Managua

Monday- Friday 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Tel: 2264-7630 ; 2264-7730, ext: 1388

When will the results be delivered? 

COVID-19 test results are delivered from 3:00pm to 5:00pm the day the test was administered. Test results can be obtained electronically through the Ministry of Health COVID-19 testing system or in person at the Concepción Palacios Healthcare Complex in Managua.

What is the online link to schedule and view results of a COVID-19 test in Nicaragua?

https://serviciosenlinea.minsa.gob.ni/servicios/#/laboratorio

Process to schedule a COVID-19 test:

STEP 1: Select the icon that says, “Registration for a COVID-19 test” (REGISTRO PARA PRUEBAS COVID-19) this will take you to a lab registration intake form.

STEP 2: Fill in the registration form with general information of the traveler (name and surname, travel document number, telephone number, date of birth, address, or hotel)

STEP 3: Select the date that you would like to schedule your COVID-19 test.

Note: All COVID-19 tests must me taken a maximum of 72 hours prior to traveling.

STEP 4: After filling in the registration form save it and you will receive a confirmation message stating that you have successfully scheduled your COVID-19 test.

Note: Once saved the traveler must download or print his or her registration form and present it at the Concepción Palacios Healthcare Complex in Managua the day of the test.

STEP 5:   On the day that the test will be administered please present a valid travel document (ID or passport) copy of the online registration form and the COVID-19 test payment voucher.

Note: COVID-19 tests can be paid online through an electronic bank transfer, at any branch of BANPRO bank or at the Concepción Palacios Healthcare Complex.

Process to download COVID-19 test results:

STEP 1: Using the Nicaragua Ministry of Health COVID-19 online testing system select the icon that says “Results” (RESULTADOS).

STEP 2: Enter the number of the travel document you used to schedule your test as well as the sample code you were given when the test was administered.

STEP 3: Select the language and click download.

To view or download the validation of the document, click on Validation, add the unique validation code that is found at the bottom of the document, that way the result of the person who took the test will be shown.

Process to validate COVID-19 test results:

STEP 1: Using the Nicaragua Ministry of Health COVID-19 online testing system select the icon that says “validation” (Validación).

STEP 2: Enter the Unique validation Number (Bar code) located at the bottom of your test results and click the validate button.

Are there commercial flights to Nicaragua?

Nicaragua does not have an imposed lockdown or curfew. Once a traveler has fulfilled all the biosafety requirement to enter Nicaragua, they are free to move about the country, but follow up calls from the Ministry of Health personnel should be expected throughout their stay and authorities encourage all travelers to follow COVID-19 biosafety measures such as: face masks, constant hand washing, use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and social distancing.

Yes. You can fly to Managua via Miami, Houston, Ford Lauderdale, San Salvador, Costa Rica, Mexico and Panamá with Avianca, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, Aeroméxico, Copa Airlines and SANSA.

Flights schedules are as follow:

Note: In Nicaragua you can fly locally using La Costeña airlines.

Does Nicaragua have biosafety protocols?

With the new COVID-19 reality, the Nicaraguan Tourism Board (INTUR) in alliance with private entities has designed and implemented a series of biosafety protocols that seek to support the continued functioning of the tourism sector, provide quality tourism services, and promote safe travel habits.

Why is it safe to travel to Nicaragua?

In January of 2021 Nicaragua obtained the Safe Travel Seal, awarded by The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in recognition of the rigorous application of biosafety measures for the prevention of Covid-19 in the tourism sector of the country..

“Nicaragua awaits you with open arms and we encourage you to implement the biosafety measures, such as constant hand washing use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and of course social distancing”.

First-timer’s guide to Nicaragua

Oct 10, 2023 • 6 min read

Nicaragua has retained its off-the-beaten-path feel ©adamdodd/Getty Images

Supported by

The largest country in Central America - dubbed the land of lakes and volcanoes -  Nicaragua has retained its off-the-beaten-path feel, and much of it has been preserved rather than developed.

Whether you want to feast on gourmet local produce, taste top-notch rum, wake up and smell the organic coffee surrounded by Spanish-colonial architecture, lounge on idyllic white-sand beaches beneath swaying palms, clamber over – and surf down – active volcanoes, ride some big waves or go monkey-spotting in lush forests, Nicaragua has something for you.

When should I go to Nicaragua?

Subtropical Nicaragua is a year-round destination with two distinct seasons: hot and dry from November to May and hot and wet from June to October, aka the "green season". The rains usually come in short, sharp bursts in the late afternoon, with plenty of sunshine the rest of the time; September and October are the wettest months.

Nicaragua is at its most popular (and most expensive) over Christmas, New Year and Easter, when towns and cities hold colorful religious festivals and Nicaraguans flock to the beaches.

Is it easy to get to and around Nicaragua?

Nicaragua’s international airport is Augusto C. Sandino in Managua , and there are direct flights from Miami and Fort Lauderdale in the US , Mexico City and Panama City , and plenty of connecting flights.

If you’re traveling around Central America by bus, Transnica covers Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua, while Transporte del Sol operates in Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

You can also get around the country on local buses, whether "chicken buses" – reinvented North American school buses that rattle along at breakneck speed – or good-value long-distance coaches that are reasonably comfortable.

La Costeña offers daily flights from Managua to Great Corn Island and ferries cross Lake Nicaragua to Isla de Ometepe and the Solentiname archipelago. Explore the historic centers of Granada and León on foot, but taxis are cheap and plentiful if you want to go further afield.

How long do I need in Nicaragua?

In a week, most visitors skip Managua and head straight to colonial-era Granada , on the shores of Lake Nicaragua. After you’ve explored the city, its lakes and volcanoes, take a puddle jumper to the Corn Islands, bus it to the beaches of San Juan del Sur, chill on the volcanic isle of Ometepe, or surf down an active volcano in Léon.

In two or three weeks, you could cover all the above and add on a visit to the lush Solentiname islands and their primitivist artists, or take a jungle journey along the Río San Juan , the watery frontier with Costa Rica. And with more time, you could brush up your Spanish at one of the many wallet-friendly schools.

Top things to do in Nicaragua

1. peer into a volcanic crater in granada.

Granada is one of Central America’s oldest and loveliest cities, all postcard-pretty plazas, ornate churches and cobbled streets lined with rainbow-coloured houses, where locals drag their rocking chairs onto the streets to catch up with their neighbors.

But you’re never far from nature. Spend an evening peering into Masaya Volcano’s crater as luminous orange molten lava bubbles away below you, discover its string of volcanic isletas  (islets) by kayak, hike through – or zipline above – Mombacho Volcano’s cloud forest, cool off in the crater lake of Laguna de Apoyo, and visit the skilled artisans of Masaya and the Pueblos Blancos .

2. Ride the Pacific rollers

Stellar waves and wild beaches line Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, and it’s long been a haunt of surfers in the know . To the south, laid-back San Juan del Sur is surf-and-party central – the Sunday Funday Pool Crawl is a backpacker legend. But the surfing is better out of town – Playa Maderas , 20 minutes north, has the best beach break, while mellow Playa Remanso, 15 minutes south, is perfect for novices.

In Popoyo, around 75km (47 miles) to the north, the surf breaks have the most consistent swells for wave riders of all levels, with rentals and surf schools aplenty.

3. Surf down an active volcano

Adrenaline junkies can climb up and whizz back down the black ash slopes of still-rumbling Cerro Negro volcano on a specially designed board, hitting speeds of up to 100kph (60mph).

Nicaragua’s youngest volcano is a short hop from Léon , the northern colonial-era capital that’s home to the largest cathedral in Central America.

Léon has the buzzy feel of a university city, with eclectic museums including the Museo Histórico de la Revolución , and art, from the contemporary Museo de Arte Fundación Ortiz-Gurdián to street murals.

4. Kick back in the Caribbean

Around 70km (43 miles) off Nicaragua’s east coast, the pocket-sized Corn Islands tick all the Caribbean boxes – palm-fringed, icing-sugar sand beaches, gin-clear water and a chilled-out vibe – without the hefty price tag.

Car-free Little Corn is a short flight from Managua followed by a bouncy 40-minute boat ride from Great Corn. Snorkel and scuba the pristine reefs, flop into a hammock for a front-row view of the sunset, then dine feet-in-the-sand on just-caught fish to a reggae soundtrack.

5. Enjoy volcanic island life

The twin-coned volcanic Isla de Ometepe rises out of the silver-flat surface of Lake Nicaragua, and both fertile, dormant Volcán Maderas and rocky, fiery Volcán Concepción make challenging climbs.

Less strenuous is the beautiful cloud forest hike to the San Ramón waterfall , wildlife-watching from a kayak along the green-fringed Istián River, howler-monkey spotting at Reserva Charco Verde and hikes to ancient petroglyphs. Or tour a community-owned coffee finca or a tree-to-bar chocolate farm before a feast of organic farm-to-fork fare at Café Campestre .

My favorite thing to do in Nicaragua

I love tucking into Nicaragua’s one-of-a-kind dishes. Nacatamales are flavorsome parcels of corn dough stuffed with marinated spicy pork or chicken, rice, chilies, olives and more, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

Granada’s favorite street food is vigorón , an energy-boosting combination of boiled cassava and crispy chicharrones (fried pork rinds), topped with a tangy cabbage salad.

The country’s bountiful tropical fruits, such as mangos, guanábana (soursop) and calala (passion fruit), appear in batidas (shakes), top-notch coffee is grown on fertile volcanic slopes, while Flor de Caña’s 12-year-old naturally aged rum is rated one of the world’s finest. And now artisan chocolate makers, such as Argencove in Granada, are turning the country’s cacao into award-winning chocolate bars.

How much money do I need for Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries in Central America. There’s accommodation to suit all budgets, from hostels and family-run guesthouses to eco-friendly boutique hotels and luxe resorts. Buses are a bargain, and you can fill up on street food, eat in a comedor (local restaurant) or splurge on fine dining.

• Hostel bed: from US$8
• Budget hotel room for two: from US$27
• Bus ticket: from US$1
• Dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant: from US$25
• Nicaraguan coffee: from US$2
• Local beer: from US$1.30

Is Nicaragua safe to visit?

Statistically, Nicaragua is the safest country in Central America after Costa Rica. Just take the same precautions you would at home. Don’t flash your cash or valuables in public places, and avoid isolated and dimly lit areas at night, especially if you’re alone – ask a local for advice on unsafe neighborhoods.

Order a radio taxi where possible, and if you rent a car don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. If you come across a demonstration, leave the area.

Editor's note: This article was sponsored by Nicaragua Tourism after the city was selected for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024. Sponsors do not influence a destination's inclusion in Best In Travel, which is determined solely by Lonely Planet's editorial team.

Supported by Nicaragua Tourism

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

Funding for this story is provided by Nicaragua Tourism. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

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Nicaragua Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Nicaragua. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas February 28, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Nicaragua.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Nicaragua. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Nicaragua.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Nicaragua take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Nicaragua.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Nicaragua. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Nicaragua, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Nicaragua. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Nicaragua, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Nicaragua. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Nicaragua include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Nicaragua. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Nicaragua’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Nicaragua. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Nicaragua may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Nicaragua, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Nicaragua, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Nicaragua .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Nicaragua for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Nicaragua travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, nicaragua - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Nicaragua due to the political situation, the potential for civil unrest and crime.

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Political situation

The political situation is volatile in Nicaragua. The country has experienced periods of political unrest since April 2018, resulting in hundreds of deaths and detentions.

Since the 2021 Presidential elections, Nicaraguan government officials and law enforcement have severely repressed those critical or opposed to government policies. According to UN reports, Nicaraguan authorities:

• undertake arbitrary arrests and detentions
• censure media
• prevent certain individuals from departing Nicaragua by air or land for political reasons
• arbitrarily seize and search private property, including personal phones and computers for anti-government content
• arbitrarily charge individuals with terrorism, money laundering, and organized crime offenses for political reasons

If you are in Nicaragua:

• refrain from discussing the political situation in public or online
• avoid all political activities
• avoid posting information on social media

The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Nicaragua to provide consular assistance may be limited in some circumstances.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Crime against property, such as house and car burglaries also occur frequently.

• Ciudad Sandino
• León
• in remote areas such as beach communities on the Pacific coast
• in the North Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region

In Managua, the following neighbourhoods face very high levels of assault and robbery incidents:

• Mercado oriental
• Reparto Shick
• Jorge Dimitrov
• Ciudad Belén
• Américas 1 y Américas 2
• Barrio Camilo Ortega

In these areas, thefts from cars have occurred while drivers were waiting at red lights with open windows. Thefts also commonly occur in: 

• popular tourist areas
• bus terminals, train stations and airports
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios

Border areas also often see higher criminal activity and violence. Criminal gangs are more active in the border areas with Costa Rica and Honduras. Generally, the police are understaffed and lack resources.

While travelling:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original, including the Nicaraguan entry stamp
• be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid deserted areas
• avoid walking alone at night
• choose well-secured accommodation

While driving:

• avoid picking up hitchhikers
• keep your windows closed and doors locked at all times
• keep your belongings out of reach
• never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• don’t stop to change a flat tire in an isolated area
• be aware of strangers offering their help
• use the official border crossings only

Violent crime

Violent crime, including murders, armed robberies and sexual assaults, occurs although difficult to assess and likely under reported.  

Most violent incidents are organized crime-related or politically motivated. Paramilitary forces and para-police, which are armed civilians in plain clothes, have committed exactions against citizens. Assaults mostly take place in major cities but sometimes also in rural areas.

Foreigners are rarely targeted but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings, where kidnappers demand small immediate ransoms, have occurred.

Kidnappers usually take the victim to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal. The victim is sometimes held overnight for a second withdrawal the next day.

Criminal taxi drivers sometimes use this ploy.

• Only use reputable taxi companies
• Avoid hailing a taxi on the street
• If you are threatened, do not resist

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations and civil unrest may occur.

Nicaraguan law prohibits political activity by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or promoting dissent, including on social media, may result in you being detained or deported.

Even peaceful demonstrations, although infrequent, can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Local authorities may not regard harassment as unlawful unless physical contact or explicit threats are made.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous, especially on the Pacific Coast. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Warning signs, lifeguards and rescue equipment are often limited.

Drownings occur regularly.

• Never swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
• Monitor weather warnings

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as white-water rafting, scuba diving, surfing, canopy touring, hiking other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even during summer.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your expedition companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• avoid camping or sleeping overnight on beaches
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety

Road travel

Road conditions.

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Except on the Pan-American Highway, driving conditions may be hazardous due to:

• inadequate lighting
• narrow or unpaved roads
• lack of guardrails
• lack of traffic signs
• unnamed streets
• roaming livestock

Road safety

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds. They may be aggressive and reckless. Drinking and driving is prevalent.

Vehicles are poorly maintained. Roadside assistance is not available. Cell phone coverage outside urban areas can be lacking, particularly in mountainous areas. If you drive in Nicaragua:

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
• avoid road travel at night
• travel in convoys of at least two vehicles
• keep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
• carry a cell phone and a charger

Public transportation

Public transportation is unreliable and often overcrowded. Vehicles are generally in poor condition.

Pickpockets often target tourists on public buses. Travellers have also been assaulted when getting off a bus.

• Don’t reveal your intended destination
• Don’t share a cab with strangers at the end of a bus ride
• Be cautious of any advice that could convince you to get off a bus earlier than planned to take a shortcut

Many taxis are in poor condition and lack safety features such as seat belts. Express kidnappings have occurred in unauthorized taxis. It’s common practice for taxi drivers to pick up other passengers en route.

If using taxi services while in Nicaragua:

• use only Pink taxis booked ahead of time or a trusted ride-sharing app
• agree on a fare with the driver for a private ride before departure
• avoid sharing taxis with strangers
• note driver’s name and plate number
• avoid boarding taxis at taxi stands or flagging taxis in the street

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Nicaraguan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Nicaragua.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days Business visa: not required Student visa: not required Residency visa: required

Renewal of a residency visa is at the discretion of immigration authorities.

If you undertake this process, you may have to produce numerous documents showing your right to be in the country. You may also face lengthy interrogations.

Entry stamp

Immigration authorities will stamp your passport upon arrival and write down the number of days you are allowed in the country. The 90-day period is not guaranteed, and the decision is at their discretion.

You may face fines and possible delays if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Nicaragua.

• Make sure your passport has been stamped upon arrival
• Take good note of the maximum length of the approved stay

Central America-4 Border Control Agreement

Under the terms of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement (CA-4), Canadian tourists may travel freely within any of the following CA-4 countries:

• El Salvador

You can travel between these countries for up to 90 days without having to undergo entry and exit formalities at border immigration checkpoints.

You must still check in at immigration counters when you enter or exit these checkpoints.

The 90-day period begins at the first point of entry to any of the CA-4 countries. You will be fined if you exceed the 90-day limit.

You may request an extension of up to 90 days once a year. You must request this extension and pay the required fee at the Nicaraguan General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Nationals before your first 90-day limit expires. Immigration authorities will determine the length of the extension.

General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Nationals – Government of Nicaragua

Registration

To help facilitate your entry into the country, Nicaraguan authorities recommend pre-registering your trip if you are travelling for:

• business purposes
• study purposes
• volunteering work

You should submit your form to the Ministry of the Interior in Spanish by email, at least 7 days before departure.

Entry and exit application portal - Government of Nicaragua (in Spanish)

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited, especially outside of Managua. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Most healthcare workers are located on the Pacific coast region, and rather scarce in the centre and along the Caribbean coast regions.

Public hospitals and clinics remain below Canadian standards. Services are limited. They may lack of medical supplies and adequately trained professionals.

Private facilities may be better equipped and provide better health care. They are mostly located in Managua and non-existent in rural areas. Services may be expensive and many institutions expect immediate cash payment.

Doctors may not speak English.

Emergency services are unreliable throughout the country. Ambulance services provide transportation and basic first aid only.

You might need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Some prescription medication may not be available in Nicaragua.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Nicaragua accede the Inter-American Convention on Serving Criminal Sentences abroad. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Nicaragua to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Nicaraguan authorities. This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

The legal system is generally cumbersome and not always transparent. If you are arrested in Nicaragua, even for a minor incident, you should expect long delays to resolve your case and you may not be allowed to leave the country.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Nicaraguan law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Outside urban areas, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could face discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Identification

Authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Photography

It’s illegal to photograph official buildings.

Verify with local authorities before taking photos.

Electronic smoking devices

E-cigarettes and similar devices are illegal.

Local authorities may confiscate them if they find you in possession of such items.

Drones are strictly prohibited in Nicaragua.

Local authorities will confiscate drones or similar devices upon entry.

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property, or making other investments in Nicaragua:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Nicaragua before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Nicaragua.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Nicaragua, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Nicaragua.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Nicaragua by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Nicaragua to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You can drive in Nicaragua with a Canadian driver’s licence for up to 30 days. If you intend to stay longer, you must obtain an international driving permit.

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene
• call 118 to report the accident and request Transit Police
• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt under Nicaraguan law.

However, police may not respond, especially overnight. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• drive to the nearest police station or a secure location
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

If you are involved in a road accident causing injuries, you may be detained until a legal decision is made, regardless of culpability.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Nicaragua is the córdoba (NIO).

You cannot exchange Canadian dollars in Nicaragua. However, you can easily exchange U.S. dollars.

Credit cards are usually accepted. However, ATMs outside of major cities may not be available.

Exchange foreign currency at banks or official exchange offices only.

Nicaragua is subject to various natural disasters such as:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• torrential rains

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy season

The rainy season occurs from May through November, with October being the month with the most rainfall.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads, including major highways, may become impassable, and bridges may be damaged. Heavy rains may also contribute to dangerous landslides.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Bush and forest fires

Bush and forest fires are common between December and April.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Nicaragua is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

There are several active volcanoes in Nicaragua. Local authorities monitored closely the following volcanoes:

• Cerro Negro
• San Cristóbal

You must be accompanied by a local guide to visit some volcanoes, including the Maderas and Concepcion volcanoes on the Isla Ometepe. 

Eruptions may occur at any time. Series of tremors sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas. Falling ash may also disrupt air traffic.

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

• monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders 

 Useful links

• Ineter  - Nicaraguan Institute of Territorial Studies (in Spanish)
• National System for Prevention, Mitigation and Disaster – Government of Nicaragua

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 118
• medical assistance: 128
• firefighters: 115

Consular assistance

Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua

For emergency consular assistance, call the Office of the Embassy of Canada to Nicaragua, in Managua, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Nicaragua Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Nicaragua

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended in public spaces.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to Nicaragua from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Can I travel to Nicaragua if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Nicaragua without restrictions.

Can I travel to Nicaragua without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Nicaragua without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Nicaragua?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Nicaragua.

Can I travel to Nicaragua without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Nicaragua?

Mask usage in Nicaragua is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Nicaragua?

Restaurants in Nicaragua are open. Bars in Nicaragua are .

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Nicaragua Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Known as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. Home to Lake Nicaragua (Central America’s largest lake), beautiful islands, expansive volcanic terrain, mangrove swamps, ethereal cloud forests, and tropical rainforests, Nicaragua is a stunning destination with tons of things to see and do — no matter your interests.

In fact, I loved my visit to Nicaragua so much I ended up extending my visit!

While Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur tend to pull in the crowds, if you leave the main southern cities and get a little off the tourist trail, you can discover even more varied landscapes, friendly locals, and little explored towns and national parks.

This travel guide to Nicaragua shows you how to visit on a budget, save money, and make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Nicaragua

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. Visit Little Corn Island

This archipelago off the Caribbean coast is one of the best places to relax in the country. It boasts diving with hammerhead sharks and underwater caves, fresh seafood, and plenty of hammock downtime on deserted beaches (invest in a good hammock if you’re serious about your R&R). Don’t miss Otto’s Beach.

2. Relax in San Juan del Sur

This picturesque surfer paradise is fringed with prehistoric volcanic hills and was the first destination to put Nicaragua on the map. Backpackers flock here in droves to surf and party under the stars. It’s a must-visit destination in the country!

3. Admire colonial Granada

Nicaragua’s oldest city is revered as the colonial jewel of Central America. Many of the pastel-painted buildings have been meticulously restored. Bask in Granada’s historic grandeur as you weave through the cobblestone streets, visit local art galleries, and sip on a coffee in a plaza.

4. Tour León

From world-class museums, Central America’s largest cathedral, and other beautiful monuments to a lively party scene fueled by the ample student population, León is one of my favorite places in the country. Sample the best roadside quesillo and see the local artists who give the city its eccentric flavor.

5. Explore Ometepe Island

Spend your days hiking, kayaking, or cycling around the island, spotting howler monkeys and archeological ruins in the process. Two of the two volcanoes here (Concepción and Maderas) offer strenuous 8-10-hour hikes. Guides are mandatory and cost 530 NIO.

Other Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. hike miraflores.

Miraflores national park was the highlight of my entire trip. Located in Estelí in northern Nicaragua, this is a stunning cloud forest with rivers and waterfalls. You can take day-hikes or multiday treks to the park (the multiday trips enable you to stay with local host families in small communities) and there are also programs to help you learn to farm. The one-day trek that I did ran from 7am-4pm and cost 550 NIO which included two meals and a mandatory guide. An extra bonus that I loved is that all the money goes back into supporting the community and farmers.

2. Explore Rio San Juan

This river is a wonderful stopover for nature enthusiasts looking to go kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Despite the surge in eco-tourism in the region, accommodation options are still no-frills and very low-key, with Wi-Fi and phone coverage being scarce. Most tours leave from San Carlos, which is located at the mouth of the river on Lake Nicaragua.

3. Hike a volcano

Nicaragua has 19 volcanos (9 of which are active). The two peaks on Ometepe –– Concepcion and Maderas –– are the two most popular day hikes in the country. Concepción, towering at 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) is a baking hot hike, so bring lots of sunblock and water. Maderas is easier but muddier, with a lake at the summit. Cerro Negro (near León) offers a comfortable sandy route from top to bottom and is also well-known for “volcano surfing.” Masaya Volcano is the most active volcano in Nicaragua and you can actually see the lava bubbling there (visits are limited to 10 minutes due to the fumes). For people wanting a challenge, try San Cristobal, Nicaragua’s highest volcano. If you’re hunting for scenic Insta-worthy views, hike to Telica (also within easy reach from León) for a spectacular sunset (you can actually camp at the top).

4. Relax at Lake Apoyo

Laguna de Apoyo is a breathtaking body of water that sits upon the Apoyo volcano crater near Granada. This 200-meter-deep lake is the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and sailing. Hostels offer day trips from Granada for around 300 NIO, which include a return shuttle and include use of another hostel’s facilities, kayaks, and tubes on the lagoon. You can also visit independently and stay overnight if you want a longer visit.

5. Tour a coffee plantation

Coffee is Nicaragua’s primary export and Jinotega, the misty and mountainous northern region, produces over 80% of the country’s output. You can organize a coffee tour in any of the eco-lodges/hostels dotted around the region. I particularly liked Eco Albergue La Fundadora. Even though I don’t drink coffee, it’s a fascinating and important industry in the country (and region) and worth learning about.

6. Relax at the Pearl Cays

The remote string of crescent-shaped playas that make up the Pearl Cays (pronounced “Pearl Keys”) offer some of the best Caribbean beaches in Nicaragua. Unfortunately, due to climate change, this stunning collection of white islands is steadily shrinking. Located near the Corn Islands, there are currently only 10 left from the original 18. Accommodation on the island is super exclusive and very pricey. However, day trips by shared speedboat can be easily arranged to make visits affordable. Private boats start from around 8,800 NIO and fit up to 10 people. Come here to snorkel, swim, and lounge away the day.

7. Visit the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve

Bosawas is the second-largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere and is home to jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys, harpy eagles, and more. A huge chunk of the country’s bird population — 600 out of 790 species — are located here, making it the prime spot for wildlife and bird watching. Multi-day trips, where you can truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, hike cloud forests, swim in waterfalls, and meet Mayangna and Miskito indigenous communities start at around 12,000 NIO per person.

8. Explore the Solentiname Archipelago

Isolated on the southwest tip of Lago de Nicaragua, the Solentiname Archipelago is a cluster of 36 islands revered for their pristine collections of primitive art, birdlife, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s best to base yourself in Mancarrón and organize day trips to other neighboring islands throughout your stay. It’s roughly a four-hour drive from Managua to San Carlos and then and then a two-hour boat ride to the dock in Mancarrón. There are no ATMs to be found on the islands so bring plenty of cash.

9. Shop at the Masaya Markets

Stock up on rum, coffee, hammocks, and ceramics at the Masaya Markets in Masaya National Park near Managua. Barter your way through the markets and soak up the colorful atmosphere. While there is a lot of tourist junk here, there are still plenty of artisanal handmade crafts as well. On Thursdays, a weekly ‘Night of Revelry’ features traditional dancing, local food, and music. The market is just thirty minutes from Managua.

10. Visit the stone carving hermit

Near Estelí in the north you can find Alberto the hermit. He’s been living here for almost 40 years, carving stone figures and sculptures in the jungle. He’s eccentric, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in the region. Stop by to see his carvings and learn about his life in the jungle. Here’s a video of my visit .

11. Check out the Isletas de Granada

Southeast of the city of Granada in Lake Nicaragua, you can find the Isletas de Granada (Grenada Islets). There are around 365 of these volcanic islands, some of which are inhabited. A few have hotels on them or you can take a one-hour boat ride around them to admire their pristine beauty (it costs around 1,400 NIO for a boat that can take 8 people).

12. See Somoto Canyon

Dating back to the Miocene epoch (23-25 million years ago), Somoto Canyon is a relatively unexplored part of Nicaragua. Located near the border with Honduras, it was discovered by Czech and Nicaraguan scientists in 2004 and, since then, its spectacular walls and clear water have become a popular tourist destination. Activities here include hiking, boating, and scaling the canyon walls. The narrowest part of the canyon can only be reached by swimming or by tubing. Somoto Canyon Tours offers a variety of tours lasting from 3-6 hours with prices starting at 880 NIO.

13. Do a homestay/Learn Spanish

If you have a bit more time to spend in Nicaragua, there are lots of opportunities to volunteer, learn Spanish, and farm by taking part in a homestay (Estelí, Ometepe, and León are popular destinations for this). Hostels and tourist offices in any of the big cities can help you arrange it.

Nicaragua Travel Costs

Accommodation – Small 6-8-bed dorms generally cost around 250-350 NIO per night, with private rooms costing between 700-1,700 NIO. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common and many hostels also have a swimming pool.

For a budget two-star hotel, expect to pay between 1,000-2,600 NIO for a double room including breakfast. Expect basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, A/C, a TV, and sometimes a swimming pool.

Airbnb is available on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast as well as in Grenada and Managua (there are no rentals on the Atlantic side). You can score a great beachfront property from 2,800-4,200 NIO depending on group size and house style. For a private room, expect to pay at least 880 NIO per night.

Food – Beans, rice, and meat are the backbone of most meals in Nicaragua. Grilled chicken, pork, and beef are common options (especially for street food). Gallo pinto (fried rice and beans) is the go-to breakfast and dinner meal, with an egg often being added for the breakfast option. Be sure to try the popular quesillo , a tortilla wrapped around white cheese smothered cream, and nacatamales , a tamale made from maize dough stuffed with pork and potato.

A typical lunch, eaten in a comedor (local eatery serving tradition cuisine), or street stall costs between 100-175 NIO. Nicaraguans are more accustomed to dining out for lunch so travelers can expect to see fewer evening options available in non-touristy spots.

On the coast, seafood is the main staple so expect a lot of grilled fish. On the Caribbean side, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Caribbean culture as well.

A meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 345-520 NIO for a three-course meal with a drink.

The touristy towns and on the coast have more international cuisine options. Expect to pay 800-1,200 NIO for a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant. A large pizza costs around 270-350 NIO. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay around 210 NIO for a meal.

A domestic beer or latte/cappuccino costs around 30-90 NIO.

If you’re buying a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay between 1,100-1,300 NIO for basic staples like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Nicaragua Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 1,100 NIO per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, use public transportation and chicken buses to get around, limit your drinking, cook all of your meals, and enjoy free and cheap activities like free walking tours and lounging on the beach.

On a mid-range budget of 2,800 NIO per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi or coach between cities, and do more paid activities like diving or guided day hikes.

On a “luxury” budget of 8,200 NIO per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like take domestic flights to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in NIO.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Nicaragua is one of the cheaper countries in the region but prices are rising quickly as it becomes more of the “it spot” to retire and work remotely from. Here are some of the best ways to save money during your trip:

• Take the chicken bus – Chicken buses (crowded local buses that make multiple stops) are the cheapest way to travel. You can save big time if you’re willing to trade A/C and cushioned seating to travel on a decommissioned school bus for a few hours. For example, the 3.5-hour trip from Granada to Rivas costs just 70 NIO!
• Refill your water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with you. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and safe!
• Use the right currency – Pay with US dollars in bigger cities and save your córdobas for purchases at small businesses in rural areas and villages since they won’t have change for larger USD bills.
• Bring cash – Cards are accepted in major establishments and big cities. However, electricity can be fickle on the coast so it’s best to carry plenty of cash in case you’re caught out in a blackout.
• Learn some Spanish – Inflated tourist prices are common here. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid the crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities are cheaper.
• Choose less-traveled routes – Prices for activities and accommodation plummet when you leave the tourist triangle (Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur). Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and venture off the beaten path.
• Share private taxis – If you’re traveling in a small group, a taxi can often work out cheaper and more time-efficient than a bus or shuttle. Negotiate the price beforehand and ask your hostel for the normal rates so you have a reference.

Where to Stay in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for places to stay during your visit, here are some of my favorites:

• Hola Ola Hostel (San Juan del Sur)
• Viavia Leon (León)
• De Boca en Boca (Granada)
• Managua Backpackers Inn (Managua)

How to Get Around Nicaragua

Bus – Chicken buses (i.e. converted school buses) are the cheapest way to get around. They are slow and stop often but have dirt cheap prices (around 35 NIO per hour of travel).

If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey, book with a coach company or private mini-shuttle, the latter of which are air-conditioned with cushioned seating and have storage room for your luggage.

For private mini-shuttles, expect to pay between 880-1,750 NIO per trip, however, you can try and buddy up with other hostel guests to drive down the price since it’s a private booking.

Most of the large cities have public transportation with local bus tickets costing under 6 NIO.

Air – La Costeña, Nicaragua’s domestic carrier, is based out of Managua and serves most of the country. Even if you’re keeping spending to a minimum, you have to take a flight if you want to visit the Corn Islands. Return tickets from Managua to the Corn Islands cost 5,700 NIO. For the 2.5-hour flight from Managua to Bluefields, expect to pay at least 4,500 NIO.

Train – There are no trains in Nicaragua.

Car Rental – A 4WD is recommended if you’re planning to visit rural areas as the roads here can be rough. Prices start from around 1,400 NIO per day for a multi-day rental. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and you’ll definitely want to have extra insurance too.

When to Go to Nicaragua

There are two distinct seasons in Nicaragua: the dry season, which falls between November-April, and the green (rainy) season which is from May-October.

To avoid the crowds and peak prices, visit during the rainy season. The rainier months also offer ideal surfing conditions and deserted beaches to enjoy the waves. Just keep in mind the Caribbean coast sees more rain than the Pacific. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F).

The San Sebastian festival in Diriamba runs between January 17th-27th and is an amazing way to celebrate a local fiesta, with colorful parades, traditional music, and street-side buffets filling up every corner.

Easter (Semana Santa) is when you can find most locals hitting the mountains or beaches with family and friends. Buses and hotels, particularly on the coast, fill up fast so be sure to book in advance if you’re visiting during this time. Note that cities are much quieter during this period and many local businesses adapt their opening times/hours and events to celebrate the religious holiday.

How to Stay Safe in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in Central America, though petty theft and robberies are still relatively common. For that reason, keep your belongings secure and out of sight at all times — especially on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here when out during the day, however, they will want to avoid traveling alone after dark. Additionally, the usually standard precautions apply here as well (always keeping an eye on your drink at the bar, never walking home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight, and make sure to have suitable insurance just in case as break-ins can occur.

Scams are rare here, but they do happen. Be wary of random strangers asking for medicine or other financial assistance. Just politely decline and be on your way. You can read about common scams to avoid here .

Inflated tourist prices are common in Nicaragua. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged

Many people come to Nicaragua to party as drugs and alcohol are both cheap and abundant. However, the fines and penalties for drug use are steep. Police often expect bribes that can cost of hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars. Police won’t hesitate to strip search you if they suspect narcotics so avoid using drugs here to stay safe.

Moreover, the drug trade contributes to deaths, instability, and unrest in the region. Don’t contribute to that.

Protests and clashes in the major cities aren’t uncommon. Should a protest occur during your visit, avoid the area and return to your accommodation. While you’re unlikely to be hurt, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

As always, keep your wits about you at night time, particularly in the capital. Ask your hotel to call you a taxi in Managua (always negotiate the price before getting in the car), which can be an intimidating spot for travelers due to the lack of road names, tourists, and landmarks.

If you experience an emergency, dial 118 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Nicaragua!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Home » Central America » Travel Safety

Is Nicaragua Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Wedged between  Costa Rica  and  Honduras , Nicaragua is a good all-round destination. Think beautiful cathedrals, elegant architecture, a ton of history, and loads of nature to get to grips with.

However, Nicaragua was hit with renewed political trouble in 2018,  and it was hit hard.  There have been widespread protests against a corrupt government and these are sometimes met with force. Given all the recent reports, it’s no wonder so many ask if Nicaragua is safe.

The question of safety in Nicaragua is an interesting case – while it may appear unsafe in a lot of ways,  tourism safety in Nicaragua is still fairly high.  Their trip may be somewhat hampered but that doesn’t mean their life will be in danger or that they won’t have the time of their life!

For those who still want to go, we’ve created this guide for staying safe in Nicaragua. We want to make sure you’re well-equipped with some sound travel tips for Nicaragua and to help you avoid becoming a victim.

From concerns about the safety of solo travel in Nicaragua to wondering if it’s safe to take your family or even as a woman, we’re covering  all of this and more  in this handy guide. We’ll even get into whether or not it’s safe to live in Nicaragua, if, for some reason, you were planning on moving.

So maybe you wanted to visit Nicaragua and then heard about all the trouble. To answer the burning question of  “Is it safe to travel to Nicaragua right now” , I present you this guide.

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How Safe is Nicaragua? (Our take)

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Backpacking in Nicaragua has always been very popular. The locals are welcoming, there are epic volcanoes to climb, beaches to laze on, the second largest rainforest in the Americas to explore, history abound; it’s a travellers’ paradise!

Sadly, Nicaragua has been experiencing a lot of turbulence in recent years. Due to the recent political Unrest of 2018, much of the country is difficult to visit. A lot of accommodation in Nicaragua has been shut down and citizens have been fleeing the country.

Petty crime is steadily on the rise (though it’s not out of control like in some other places in Latin America). Most people can still visit Nicaragua without getting robbed – they just have to be more cautious than usual.

Truth is: Nicaragua has always been an alternative destination for intrepid travellers, regardless of political situations. Neighbouring Central American countries, Costa Rica  and  Honduras,  were always the more ‘touristy’ options and Nicaragua has always been the odd man out.

This has little to do with danger though and shouldn’t stop you from visiting Nicaragua! Nicaragua is still safe for tourists, within reason.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Nicaragua Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Nicaragua. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Nicaragua.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

This is a bit of a tricky one. While Nicaragua is not a country for first-time travellers, it’s definitely a great destination for experienced backpackers.

Tourism still is the most important service industry in the country. It was once a huge boon for the local economy, as poverty was stymied and jobs were created thanks to tourists. In 2018, however, it has been severely affected by political unrest.

Now? Many Nicaragua travel advisories warn against “all but essential travel” to Nicaragua. So whether or not you want to listen to these warnings is up to you. Only you, ultimately, can make the call of how safe Nicaragua is for you.

There has been some progress lately in Nicaragua’s safety and political situation, but it’s slow going.  

Censorship of the media, especially when students are involved and killed, has been  widespread.  So has the dismissal of teachers. However, much of this doesn’t affect tourist safety in Nicaragua.

Managua Augusto Sandino Airport is still receiving international flights. Despite government warnings, people are still travelling to Nicaragua. A fair few backpackers have even been staying in Granada   recently, as well as  San Juan del Sur. 

So is Nicaragua safe to visit in 2021? Yes, as long as you don’t get involved in politics and keep your wits about you. No one is targeting tourists (aside from the pickpockets) here.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Nicaragua, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Nicaragua below.

This stunning colonial city is a great place to get stuck. While it’s always been on the backpacker map, Leon is starting to really gain a lot of popularity as a must-visit destination while in Nicaragua. There are plenty of historical attractions to visit, and you can even find pretty cool nightlife here. 

Make sure to check out the stunning cathedral in the main square, for just a dollar you can get right up on top of the whitewashed roof where you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city.

Leon is a little bit more laid back than other cities in Nicaragua, which also shows in the safety statistics. While you still shouldn’t be careless, it’s definitely less sketchy in Leon than elsewhere. However, we definitely wouldn’t recommend walking around alone at night. It’s just a risk that you can very easily avoid. 

An easy hop from Leon by chicken bus, Granada is another colonial city with gorgeous buildings, vibrant nightlife and historical sites. You don’t need too long, perhaps just a day, to get a feel for this city but make sure you visit the cathedral and bargain hunt for hand-made souvenirs in the central square.

This picturesque lakeside town boasts charming cobblestone streets, friendly locals, brooding nearby volcanoes, and the beautiful yellow cathedral smack dab in the middle.

For any backpacker travelling through Nicaragua, you will find yourself in Granada at some point. With tourism on the rise in recent years, a boatload of hostels have sprung up all across the city and there are many eco-lodges on the small islands across the lake. Not only that, Granada has also developed a pretty solid infrastructure which makes it one of the safest cities to visit in Nicaragua.

Playa Maderas

A popular surfer hang-out, this is a good place to rent a board for a day ($10) and hit the waves. Most travelers backpacking Nicaragua want to have a crack at surfing and this is one of the best places to learn.

This beach is however normally pretty busy and the food is very expensive. Bring snacks. Likewise, it is an expensive place to stay although if you have a tent you can camp for free. We recommend turning right (as you face the ocean) and walking along the beach, over the rocks and onto the next beach to enjoy stunning views and clear water.

The next beach is completely isolated – it takes just two minutes to walk there but there are currently no buildings, whatsoever. It is pretty much like having your own private beach. If you’re there at the right time of the year, you may see baby turtles scrambling down towards the sea.

Places to avoid in Nicaragua

Unfortunately, not all places in Nicaragua are safe. You need to be careful and aware of your surroundings pretty much anywhere you go in the world, and the same goes for visiting Nicaragua. To help you out, we’ve listed a couple of no-go or caution areas below: 

• Public transport stations – Pickpocketing is common at bus stations, on crowded buses, and in the markets
• Managua – Crime occurs in the capital Managua, old cathedral is a well-known crime pit, on Avenida Bolivar
• Rene Schick and Jorge Dimitrov – Gang violence is highly present here
• Zona Rosa – This area in known for prostitution. Ideally, stay away!
• Puerto Cabezas, Bluefields, and the Corn Islands – Street crime is pretty common here but can be avoided with a bit of common sense and caution.

It’s important to know that Nicaragua is definitely not a super safe place, so a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will go a long way. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, read on for our insider travel tips. Stick to those and you won’t have a single issue in Nicaragua.

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If you’re not going to participate in protests or go near to cities, it’s more than reasonable to visit Nicaragua. In some ways, if you want a truly adventurous location where you won’t find many other travellers, this is the place.

Granted, things are always up in the air – shit could hit the fan again or it could all calm down (which we hope it does). If you do decide to visit Nicaragua, here are some tips to help you on your way.

Nicaragua Safety Tips for Travelling Smooth

• Stay away from protests  – DO NOT GET INVOLVED. Methods for crowd control sometimes include live ammunition…
• Know when to travel  – Rainy season runs from May to November , which is when hurricanes hit, too.
• Get your Spanish on  – Knowing some of the local lingo will help you to get around. It’s good for making friends, too!
• Keep an eye on your belongings  – pickpockets, especially around bus terminals, are pretty active. Invest in a good money belt for ultimate protection.
• Use hotels and hostels with good reviews  – 24-hour security helps; it just pays to stay somewhere amazing AND safe.
• Don’t walk around looking rich  – Flashing cash, wearing jewellery, SLRs; this is pretty dumb and a good way to get robbed.
• Learn what to do during an earthquake or volcanic eruption  – It’s simple, but it will definitely help.
• Don’t go ambling off the roads, especially in the north – Landmines still dot this area.
• Only change money at reputable places  – Most likely you’ll be ripped off anywhere else.
• Lock car doors and keep windows closed  – There have been reports of shady characters lingering around traffic lights in Managua.
• Be careful when you swim  – The sea at the Pacific Coast has strong currents. Follow local advice and don’t go out too far.
• If confronted by a mugger, don’t resist  – They’re often armed. This is when trouble occurs. Just hand it over.
• Have an escape plan  – Let’s be honest, if shit hits the fan, you’re going to want to get out of there. Research, plan, inform others of your plans. Remain vigilant!
• Get yourself a roaming sim  – Maps are helpful and so is keeping in touch with family. You can also use your phone to get live updates of ongoing situations in Nicaragua.
• Take a torch with you  – For dark nights in rural areas. You don’t want to step on something that can bite you!
• And don’t travel at night either  – This is a good time for criminals to operate.
• Stay away from drugs – Possessing any drugs can land you on the wrong, and we really mean wrong, side of the law.
• Don’t use drones  – In fact, you can’t even bring them into the country. Say goodbye to the intro to your awesome travel video.
• Protect against mosquitoes – Cover-up, bring repellent, buy coils, whatever is best for you. These guys carry nasty diseases.
• Here be scams – Especially in Managua.  It’s best to use the advice your mum told you: don’t talk to strangers.
• Watch out for children coming up to your table  – it’s most likely a distraction. They’re there to pinch your cash and they usually work for a boss.
• Always use a good tour company – It might cost more, but it will be better and less dangerous.
• Don’t travel on Sundays (if you can help it)  – Schedules can be completely out of whack.
• Pack yourself a medicine bag  – Fill it with tablets and pills to keep diarrhoea and other illnesses at bay!
• On the subject, make sure you get relevant vaccines – No-brainer.

As intimidating as Nicaragua sounds, it’s still one of the safest countries in Central America. For solo backpackers, Nicaragua is a good choice.

Solo travel anywhere in the world is pretty rewarding, and it’s no less for travelling to Nicaragua alone. With the hope that Nicaragua can once again return to the peaceful place it was, here are some safe travel tips for Nicaragua.

Travelling to Nicaragua Alone – Tips and Pointers

• There’s a very decent selection of vibrant hostels in Nicaragua.   Stylish, fun, and often boasting pools, these are also great places to meet other travellers. Just make sure it’s well-reviewed!
• Lend a helping hand. Get involved with a community project or a charity and give back to the country that you’re enjoying so much! There are loads of different organisations you can reach out to. Check out Worldpackers if you’re interested in volunteering while travelling.
• Learning some of the local language is going to really open up the country to you. And it’s not just normal Spanish, either – there’s a Nicaraguan dialect to get to grips with, and this will go down a treat.
• Book yourself on a tour. This is a good option if you want to get travel Nicaragua safely and without having to stress out. It’s also a very good chance to meet other travellers.
• Getting crazy drunk by yourself at night, either in a city or by the beach, is probably not a good idea. Alcohol is very cheap so you’ll probably want to sample a lot of it!
• On that note, know your limits. Whilst you think you may be fine wandering back by yourself, your judgement won’t be up to scratch. Taking risky shortcuts, hopping in the sea for a skinny dip, or simply getting lost, could end very badly.  Especially if you’re alone.

Whilst it is possible to travel safely in Nicaragua as a female, solo or otherwise, it’s important to note that it is a male-dominated society. Sexual assaults against female travellers have happened, especially at beach destinations where everything seems safe.

In the past, Nicaragua has been a popular place for solo female travellers. For those who are ready to re-enter the ring and travel to Nicaragua as a solo female traveller,  here are a few pointers to bear in mind.

Travelling to Nicaragua as a Woman – Tips and Pointers

• Dressing appropriately and modestly is a smart move. Ok, so, you won’t have to worry about what you wear too much in a beach resort or a party hostel in Nicaragua. Elsewhere you should exercise some restraint and know that Nicaragua is still a fairly conservative country.
• Catcalls will happen because Nicaragua is a fairly macho society. Men may shout or say things to you as you walk by. The best course of action is to just ignore them.
• There ARE cases of serious sexual harassment.  If someone follows you, head somewhere busy, into a shop, or somewhere that seems secure.
• DO NOT travel around at night time by yourself. Ever. For whatever reason.
• Buddy up!  There are plenty of other female backpackers making their way travelling to Nicaragua. Not only is this good to actually make some friends, but is a good way to get travel tips from other women too.
• Walk around with someone else on the islands, beaches, and in broad daylight, regardless of if they seem safe or not. Deserted areas may feel beautiful, but Nicaragua can be dangerous when there’s no one around.
• If someone’s asking you about personal information, it’s best to be vague . Vague itineraries and vague life stories will keep you safe when people seem to be taking too much interest in you.
• The nightlife is fun in Nicaragua! You may be having a good time and the drinks may be flowing,  but don’t let your drink out of your sight.  Drink spiking could happen.
• On that note, getting stupid drunk could just lead to trouble, and this isn’t just talking about locals, but fellow travellers too. Stay vigilant – even other travellers can have bad intentions.
• If you want to learn more about local women and their lives, you can always  get involved with an NGO.  Nicaragua is a patriarchal society, and working with one of these could help you learn more about how the society works.
• You might want to make a  stockpile of feminine sanitary products. These won’t be totally available throughout Nicaragua, especially away from the larger towns.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Nicaragua.

Is Nicaragua safe to travel for families?

There was a time when Nicaragua was a great place to take your family. The relatively low crime rate and incredible natural credentials made it an amazing place for a family holiday.

Obviously, at the moment, the political situation currently means that travel in Nicaragua isn’t as safe as it used to be though. 

Before the unrest this year it was a fantastic ( and inexpensive ) family-friendly holiday destination. The country still offers great amenities to those with children.

Family-based tourism in Nicaragua is still safe and mostly intact. There are some great hotels to stay at, homestays to enjoy, and a lot of local culture to soak up. Not only that but you can watch sea turtles nesting, play around in the surf, and/or visit indigenous peoples.

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua with your family, there are some things you will need first. You’ll need:

• Vaccines (obviously). Know what shots you need to go to Nicaragua.
• Protection against mosquitoes.
• To watch out for creepy crawlies like scorpions.
• Protection from the sun.
• Be careful when you’re at the beach – riptides are dangerous!
• Make sure your children stay away from stray animals.

The country has seen better days, but its attitude towards the family is still as strong as ever. It’s still fairly safe to go to Nicaragua for families.

Is it safe to drive in Nicaragua? Getting around Nicaragua.

Driving in Nicaragua is possible and people do rent cars and have an incredible time exploring for themselves. Driving is a good way to see what the Pacific Coast and Central Nicaragua  has to offer.

Make no mistake, driving in Nicaragua is still an experience. You’ll have to deal with all the usual stuff and then some. Dodgy rental cars, potholes, drink drivers, lack of signs, animals in the road, no lights on highways: all of these make driving in Nicaragua not very safe.

Not only that, but corrupt police might pull you over for a bribe. Use your judgement of the situation on this one.

Improvised roadblocks are all over the place and can pop up sporadically. They’re thrown up by locals and areas around these can be dangerous as police try to clear them (there’s often violence).

The barricaders themselves aren’t too interested in gringos , so don’t worry. There might be some dodgy people, but generally, barricaders are there for some political cause.

Even before 2018, we’d have said that driving isn’t safe in Nicaragua. Now? It still isn’t. Proceed according to your own abilities or get yourself a local driver.

Is Uber safe in Nicaragua?

The Nicaraguan government has refused permission for Uber to operate in the country. They don’t want to cause trouble for local taxi drivers, who are already on a low wage.

Nicaragua is an Uber-free zone, people.  End of story.

Are taxis safe in Nicaragua?

Taxis in Nicaragua are not always safe. These can be very sketchy and downright dangerous.

Using a taxi is likely unavoidable though and, chances are, you’ll have to take one at some point in Nicaragua. While they may not be ideal to use, they are, unfortunately, your only option at times.

Most taxis in Nicaragua are shared taxis – this is common practice .  If you don’t fancy sharing, make sure you agree on a solo journey and agree on the price before you get in.  Don’t know Spanish? Write the number down and show it to the driver, but not on your phone!

Official taxis in Nicaragua have a red border around a white license plate.  You should be able to see the driver’s company name, and the license plate itself should be clear, too.

Lock the doors when you get in and hide your luggage. Make sure you have small change with you so you don’t hand over stupidly large bills just to get no change back.

Unfortunately,  express kidnappings have been increasing recently. These are particularly common when leaving from the airport but can happen in cities as well. Usually, these start with a stranger asking if you need a taxi and end with you being forced to an ATM instead. Don’t listen to drivers that seem overly eager or forceful.

We recommend booking a taxi through your hostel. Get staff to book a cab for you and become friendly with the driver. If they seem like a good sort, use them regularly.

Taxis aren’t what we’d call super safe in Nicaragua, but as we said… sometimes you have to use ’em.  It’s still the safest way to get around at night time for that matter.

Is public transportation in Nicaragua safe?

Most towns are served and connected by  chicken buses – those colourful, old American school buses that cram everybody and their livestock on board. You know the ones.

If you’re not in a hurry to get anywhere and fancy a local (if uncomfortable) experience, we say  use them! Just don’t take your eyes off your bag, and be sure to watch your pockets. Keep hydrated too, ’cause it can get very, very hot on these. (Did you remember a water bottle?)

Then there are  microbuses. These are smaller, faster, and more expensive than chicken buses. They leave only when they’re completely full and behave much the same as the chicken buses but in micro-form.

Bus terminals can be chaotic and overwhelming. Watch out for shady characters lingering around.

If you’re after more comfort and safety while travelling around Nicaragua, then opt for privately-owned minibuses.  These are pretty luxurious compared to everything else – air-conditioned, pre-arranged through your hostel, and is more often a  gringo -only experience.

Public transport in Nicaragua isn’t the safest but it’s still more than usable – many travellers do.

Is the food in Nicaragua safe?

Spanish, Indigenous, and Creole flavours mix in a tantalisingly tasty cuisine offering in Nicaragua. There’s heavy use of corn (of course) on the Pacific Coast,  whilst on the Caribbean Coast,  there’s seafood and coconuts galore.

Keep clean, don’t be too greedy, and definitely use your common sense. In general, you should be fine eating your way around Nicaragua – especially if you’ve just come from somewhere else in Latin America . Even if you haven’t, you’re in for a treat. The food in Nicaragua is pretty darn safe… and delicious!

Eating Safety in Nicaragua

• Street food is where it’s at. But rushing in and eating literally everything is a BAD move. You’ll probably get sick.
• If you’re prone to a bad stomach anyway – or have a medical condition – that means your digestive system is a bit sensitive, then you may just want to take it easy in general. Bring rehydration sachets and diarrhoea medication.
• And when it comes to street food, look around. It may all look pretty good, but a rule for pretty much anywhere in the world is to go where other people are going. Busy places are good, especially if they’re more local.
• If meat, or any food for that matter, isn’t freshly cooked – and especially if it  looks like it’s been sitting uncovered all day – don’t even bother.
• You may really want a smoothie because, no joke, they look amazing.  But be careful of anything raw.  Fruit, washed or unwashed, can be crawling with germs.
• Same goes for salads and vegetables. Peel, wash with sterilised water, cook, but don’t eat raw. A good way to get a bad tum.
• … And ice cubes? Could be tap water.
• Seafood is very popular here and it’s prepared in wonderful ways! It is probably best tried in a restaurant or the in-house eatery at your hostel/hotel/guesthouse. Eating seafood on the street is usually a bad idea and you’ll be asking for trouble if you do so.
• Wash your hands, forever and always. Or (and), sanitise.
• Traveling with an allergy? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy (or just vegan). If you’re gluten-free, pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Nicaraguans ingredients in Latin American Spanish.

Can you drink the water in Nicaragua?

The water in Nicaragua is allegedly potable and safe to drink.

Many Nicaraguans drink the tap water, but you may get Traveller’s Diarrhoea if you try.

If you don’t feel comfortable, then don’t risk drinking from the tap. Stick to bottled water, or bring a refillable bottle and water purification tablets. Boiling water is always the surest way to eliminate harmful organisms.

A Grayl Geopress would also be a great investment as these are quite effective in the field. Seriously, filtered water bottles are the best.

Is Nicaragua safe to live?

Many ex-pats end up living in Nicaragua. It’s safer than its neighbours, has a generally laid-back lifestyle, low cost of living, good food, and some amazing natural landscapes. If anything, it’s becoming an increasingly popular destination for ex-pats  but there are aspects that mean Nicaragua is not safe to live in.

You’ll still be targeted like any other travelling gringo – that means petty theft and scams are still things to look out for. Trying your best to blend in, not being flashy, not shouting around in English; these things will help you live more easily in Nicaragua.

Learning Spanish is a must.  Even if it’s just a little bit, learning the local language will help you get around.

The urban infrastructure is inhibited greatly by the unrest. There’s often a shortage of fuel, frequent power outages, somewhat limited food supplies, and a heavily censored media. When there’s a big confrontation the internet gets shut off, the roads are blocked, and the paramilitary presence increases greatly. At this point, protests and even looting are usually on deck.

Living in Nicaragua, you’ll have to be ok with this instability. Living in Nicaragua has its pros and cons.

If you want to know more about the current situation, you really should  do your research.  At the end of the day, I wouldn’t say living in Nicaragua is safe but you may be of a different mind.

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Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Nicaragua?

Renting an Airbnb in Nicaragua is a great idea. Unfortunately, there are not an incredible amount of options, but the ones you are getting are pretty safe. Just don’t expect super high luxury.

And it’s perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the country. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see. Local knowledge always goes a long way, so be sure to reach out to your hosts if you’re unsure about how to fill up your Nicaragua itinerary!

On top of that, you’ll stay safe with the reliable Airbnb booking system. Both hosts and guests can rate each other which creates a very respectful and trustworthy interaction. 

Is Nicaragua LGBTQ+ friendly? 

Nicaragua is fairly open to same-sex relationships. Keep in mind that it’s a pretty conservative country, so be aware of the culture and religion is a must. You can also expect quite a few stares and maybe one or two rude comments. However, you won’t face any other issues as an LGBTQ+ traveller. 

Party destinations like San Juan del Sur are more open-minded thanks to a generally younger crowd and more travellers. If you’re worried about your safety, stick to these kinds of places! 

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Nicaragua.

Is Nicaragua safer than Costa Rica?

Nicaragua’s crime rate is slightly lower than Costa Rica, but the two countries are pretty much equal when it comes to safety. Costa Rica sees more tourists than Nicaragua which means there are more attractions and facilities that accommodate visitors, but Nicaragua’s untouched nature is far more impressive than Costa Rica’s.

What should you avoid in Nicaragua?

– Don’t get involved in protests – Avoid visiting during the rainy season (May to November) – Don’t look like a tourist or super-wealthy – Don’t underestimate the sea current

Is San Juan del Sur safe in Nicaragua?

San Juan del Sur is overall safe, especially during the day. The main concern you’ll have here is petty theft and pickpocketing. Avoid the beach at night and stay away from the dark side streets. In fact, don’t go out at night at all to add another level of security during your stay.

Is Nicaragua safe for tourists?

Nicaragua can be very safe for tourists if one uses their common sense and has been travelling around Central American countries before. As long as you stay away from protests, sketchy areas and keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings, you’ll be safe in Nicaragua.

Although plagued by petty theft and civil unrest, Nicaragua is still one of the safer Latin American countries you could choose to visit.

It’s an interesting one as well since it’s sandwiched between two of the most visited countries of Central America yet remains generally undiscovered by backpackers. Even so, the tourism industry is the second biggest in the country and it could be even bigger under different circumstances.

With the advent of some  serious political trouble  in Nicaragua safety has come into question and tourists have been opting to not travel here. At its worst, between May and November of 2018, hostels had closed their doors and tour companies stopped operating. Backpackers ARE starting to trickle back in, but the fact remains that the situation isn’t stable.

Is Nicaragua safe for travel? It’s like a bubbling pot. There’s a chance it could boil over but the tourist status changes thing, as it usually does Nicaragua is mostly safe for tourists provided you understand the political situation and the volatility of it.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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47 Comments

I’ve visited Nicaragua every year for 17 years, up until 2019. I agree that generally speaking, it is safe. There is a heavy military and police presence everywhere, and even the fast-food restaurants have heavily armed security guards at the entrances, replete with AR 15 assault style rifles. Getting stopped by the police in the countryside where a bribe was expected seems to have gone by the wayside, but it used to be a common practice. The Nicaraguan economy has been in a shambles since April 2018, especially tourism, when the government began its harsh repression of a popular uprising. There is now an uneasy calm, and the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega is firmly in control. He recently emptied the jails of many of his critics and political opponents, put them on a plane, flew them to Washington DC, and stripped them of their Nicaraguan citizenship. As Loz says, better to avoid any political activity in country, but don’t ignore the fact that the Ortga government is a corrupt, cruel, intolerant regime whose only allies in the world are fellow dictators. If you’re adventuresome, go, don’t take chances, and support Nicaraguan businesses. But don’t be politically naive.

The comment by the author that there is no Uber is correct – however, there are local Nica apps equivalent to Uber that work well (eg Aventon)

The white cathedral in León and it’s rooftop is GORGEOUS!

Of course it is safe. I’ve lived here for 5 years and have never been robbed or threatened in the street. And I’ve travelled all over from Ocotal to Chinandega to San Juan del Sur. The national highways are generally excellent, as good as European roads, and driving is generally safe outside Managua, providing you take care – motorcycles are by far the worst, ridden by youths who have no clue about road conditions and take chances. Taxis can also be badly driven. However, road rage is rare as Nicas don’t like violence and avoid it. The police do stop motorists, but it is quite rare to encounter a bent cop; if your papers (driving licence, insurance, road tax) are in order, they’ll let you go and even wish you a good journey. On the politics – don’t get involved and you’ll be fine. In any case, you wouldn’t get involved in the politics of another country, whether it be Argentina, Algeria or Australia, unless you come from there, so why worry about Nicaragua? Leave politics to the Nicas; it’s their problem, not yours. Just be a tourist and enjoy yourself – plenty of excellent beaches, restaurants, hotels – all perfectly safe.

Thanks for some great local insights, Loz!

I have spent months in Nicaragua starting in 2001 until 2012. I would NOT recommend travel. It is not safe. The writer of this article has presented the country with rose colored glasses. For as many wonderful people you will encounter, there are as many, if not more, waiting to take advantage of you. In more ways than you can imagine. I have been mugged there, have walked past the dead body of the town’s public official being brought out after being murdered, I have witnessed domestic violence, violence against strong local men who know what they are doing in their hometown, stumbled over children huddled on street corners in the middle of the night to stay warm together, seen people living surrounded by human waste and more. There is a charm about the country which seems to be humble yet kind, but again, for as much of this that you will encounter, there are so many people waiting in the shadows. I brought my sister with me on one trip and in the airport, before entering the fresh air of Nicaragua which smells of burning trash, someone leaned in and said right in her ear, “Trust no-one here.” A perfect stranger told her this upon arrival. At the time, I still had my rose colored glasses too. Do not be fooled, this is not a tourist destination where you can make yourself feel good about supporting a humble local economy, Nicaragua has become a dark and scary place.

Good insights. I’m contemplating expat status here. I’ll visit next month. I learned a lot.

Traveled their Jan 2017 before shit hit the fan stayed in Managua . Felt uneasy for the unfamiliarity in the middle of the night with and 11 and 14 year old. Arrived to destination and still a little uneasy. Once morning struck very friendly and accommodating at the hotel, resort, middle of no where it seemed. Waited for our pre arranged driver to take us to San Juan del sur. Arrived after breakfast showed us some sites offered a pit stop and a side attraction along the way and brought us to our door in San Juan del sur. Experienced a very welcoming people even though power went out and struggled to exchange currency we surfed and mingled. We met 1 tourist who had his camera bag and money stolen from the walking path but not in person he left it unattended ( not smart). Never felt unsafe walking through. We rented a vehicle and drive to visited Rivas markets and no problems. We carried on to Granada . We stayed 5 blocks from the squire in which the host infred of us areas to stay away and use caution. We ate at a local joint and felt safe but different as the kids explained it. Walked around met locals and even met people from our plane ride and expects who raved about the country. Someone even recommended a place to eat and bought us our meal. Completely uncalled for and unheard of back home. Seen him again later and bought him lunch. We were the only ones in our hotel as it was not as central but excellent hospitality. We still talk to our hostess to this day.

Felt very safe all around and talked about moving there one day. Unfortunately a hurricane devastated San Juan del sur and then government corruption hit. We ha e not expected anywhere but Nicaragua is not off the list. Cheers

Hey, thanks for a great article! I have been dreaming of going to Nicaragua for years and I really want to travel to the San Juan Del Sur area (at least) alone from Costa Rica in February. Not to sound conceited but I have to mention, I’m a typical Swedish blue eyed blonde in my twenties; would I stick out too much as a chela/gringa for petty criminals? Also, I have never travelled alone before and Mexico is my main Latin America experience as well as having only very basic Spanish.

Could I go to a resort alone to ensure safety? Also, I don’t drive and would have to cross the border on foot, has anyone done this? What is the experience like, tips etc please?

Yes you will stand out and yes you will get a lot of attention. However, whether that attention is from criminals or in any way negative I am less sure of – I met Icelandics traveling across the country and they had a wonderful time. Basically, follow all of the precautions we have set out and keep your wits about you.

Nicaragua still is the safest country in Central America, including Costa Rica. Friendly people and beautiful nature are big assets, don’t miss the beaches!!!

I am an Alabamian who visited Esteli in Feb ’20 for a cigar factory tour. I promised myself that when I was financially able to exit the US, Esteli would be my home for at least 4 years. I was awarded disability in spring ’20 and drove to Esteli from Birmingham in Nov ’20. I had 2 corrupt police issues in northern Mexico. I made sure I was in a hotel before nightfall except for Guat City, Guatemala, where evening traffic was a crawl, but no danger issues. I got off the highway and found a taxi and asked him to escort me to a hotel for a pre negotiated fee. We arrived and I paid him. He was very nice. I learned to say Disabled Veteran former Military Policeman in Spanish, and had no law enforcement problems along the way (after N Mex). I have filed for permanent residency and the government has been accommodating all through the process. The car gets a few looks, too, as well as the Alabama license plate. Can’t get local plates until I am approved for residency. The city isn’t too big nor small. It’s great. No regrets.

Hi Long Ash

I’m delighted to learn that its working out for you. I hope your enjoy your time there.

To Ana, and Maribel Ruiz…thanks to you both for your contributions. Although it is not impossible to visit my beloved Nicaragua right now, nether is it advisable. There simply are too many unknowns, primary of which is what you’d do if you became seriously ill while there. Never make an international journey, without comprehensive travel insurance with good coverage in the event of your needing to be evacuated for medical reasons. It will take some time for tourism to become re-established there, but waiting is the more prudent course right now. Think 2022, at the earliest. A small language comment for Maribel: “Petty” crime vs “pretty” crime. ( Maybe a typo.). Pretty = linda in Spanish. ” Petty” in Spanish would be something like ” sin importancia”, or ” menor”,thus something like being pick pocketed would be a petty crime (but horribly inconvenient!) as opposed to violent crime, such as rape, assault, murder, etc. Much worse! And there is almost no violent crime in Nicaragua directed against foreigners, that I have ever heard of in 17 years travel there.

My cousin (Afro American) has been living in Nicaragua for past 2 years as a single woman up until recently…Her boyfriend who is a security guard, now lives with her in a 2 bedroom apartment for approximately $200/ a month! She is 70 but looks GREAT for 70! Her boyfriend is much younger than her.Thus us the trend there…older woman,younger man.Why?…There was a War some years ago & alot of the older men were killed!!! Last month there was a water shortage in her local.A water truck distributed Water to the local.She & her neighbor she water from a large water tank. Recently, my cousin visited her on his annual vacation. I have yet to hear from him about his visit…so I cannot speak on it. The weather is hot & sometimes it rains for a whole week. I do not have a desire to visit there as I look forward to visit Ghana with a tour group, Kenya & Malawi.I have an Aunt & Uncle living in Malawi.

As much as I resist myself from writing good reviews that may favor the Nica government. I am a Nica and yes you may travel and yes it’s safe, but please, please be aware of danger and use your head avoid crowds, avoid conflict go fishing go snorkeling go horse back riding eat the food and set aside a day and pamper yourself go to a good barber or beauty shop and get pampered. But always be smart!! Go to Chinandega there is plenty to do!!!!Contact me!!

I’ve visited Nicaragua each year for the past 17 years. However, for the first time since 2004, I am not going in 2021. I am in touch with friends in Managua, Granada, Leon and elsewhere. Things are calm there. The repressive government will not tolerate demonstrations. Petty crime is always an issue. Violent crime against foreigners is very rare. Tourism is indeed dead, and many hotels and restaurants have closed. Those that are open rely almost exclusively on Nicaraguan nationals, a very limited pool. Many international sources advise against travel now. There is no COVID 19 vaccine available there yet. The government has hidden the number of COVID deaths. Hospitals are over-crowded, public health care is poor. Also, almost no one in Nicaragua speaks English. The “guide” in the article is next to worthless. Nicaragua needs tourism, but think 3 times before going this year. The risk is too high. Nicaragua is a wonderful country. But think 2022, at the earliest, in my judgement.

Nicaragua beautiful country with Lakes and volcanoes, sadly the government has repressed the people, tourists can visit the country with the precautions of pretty theft and even problems from police, who can fine you with out reason. Many criminals are armed, the government let them out from prison in the revolution event of 2018. The military armed paramilitary, and now these are armed criminals too. #SOSNICARAGUA.

Is the drive from Liberia airport to Playa El Coco safe for a single young woman…in a taxi?

I would like to travel in Nicaragua….

Come on down!!! The country is safe to travel in. Just use common sense: Use the same precautions you would use anywhere in North America or Europe. Don’t carry any recreational drugs while travelling. (Even as small amounts are generally overlooked… better safe than sorry.) Don’t flash your cash etc.

If you wish to have more detailed info, leave a message here and I’ll find a a way to get in touch with you directly. If you decide to come and visit, you will LOVE it here.

Can we talk more about it? I’m kind of scared of going to visit.

I am planning to come to Nicaragua very soon and stay for two months. I will be coming with my girlfriend. My only real question is about safety.

looking for to retire in Nicaragua, Granada at the age of 70

Right, The cathedrals and architecture are mostly eyesores in my opinion. But great country to visit, great people, and great wilderness.

Is Nicaragua safe? Broad question. It is possible to travel without incident but crime is not a new thing.

Saying that Nicaragua is ‘back to normal’ is irresponsible and false. Nicaragua will not recover from 2018 anytime soon.

What people need to understand is that the socioeconomic climate has shifted and regressed decades and it DOES affect tourism deeply.

It’s expensive and people are desperate. Yes, you can visit but don’t expect anything near 2018 and before. Local estimates point to a seven to ten year recession. Good luck

what does ” deeply ” mean? lack of transportation, dangerous gangs on the highways and cities? lack of accommodations? food supply, medicines? vagueness doesn’t help me decide what or when to visit. is the ” deeply affected ” areas widespread or localized in Managua/Leon ? I want to visit for 6 months in the San Juan del Sur area. is that ok? sometimes recession means lower prices. thanks

where would you recommend? costa rica is expensive, panama more so, el salvador, honduras, guatemala, mexico, all bad. so , basically, All of central america is off limits to affordable tourism, long stays, travel ,etc.? oh yeah Belize,

I can’t beleive what I’m reading here! I just came back from my 5th trip to Nicaragua, 2 months each time. It’s safe, inexpensive & quiet. I’m a woman, travelling alone & never had problems of any kind. Poeple are so helpfull & nice. In fact, it’s even less expensive than before the “problems” (April 2018). Even airlines tickets went down: I paid 471 $ cad with COPA & already booked for Feb for the same price. And reading that the taxis are unsafe & dangerous ?!?!?! Come on! I go all around the country each time, using the local bus, local taxis, eat local food & stay in local hostals. I really wonder if the autor has even been to Nicaragua ? Or did she stay in an all inclusive remoted 5* hotel & just repeats what she heard about the real life in Nicaragua ? Sorry to read that because yes, poeple are suffering from the lack of tourism but they are not desperate, as M. Alvarado says. So yes, GO to Nicaragua. You will be surprised & amazed. This country has so much to offer…. Have a nice trip!

Well Monica, you make it sound like the streets are paved with gold. Everyone has a different experience.

I actually live in Nicaragua and I would love for things to be different. The fact is tourism is dead.

Is it safe? By Central American standards it’s better than Honduras. Is it enough for less seasoned travelers than yourself? Questionable.

Tourism is a fickle industry; hard to make assumptions for other people.

I’m glad you had a nice stay, but this doesn’t change the fact that tourism in Nicaragua is a hard sell at the moment.

I really don’t believe this story is about the tourism industry. It is about general safety for travelers and visitors to Nicaragua. I also feel the author has spent very little time on the ground and travelling by means other than a rental car. If you commit a traffic infraction, expect to get stopped like in any other country. I travel at least once a week from SJDS to Managua. Unlike most people, I like to travel at night. Less traffic and quicker trips. I get stopped by the police a least once or twice on each trip for routine stops. I have no problem with that as the officers are courteous and very professional. I am glad they are out their doing their job. Also, the asking for “Tips” by the officers has virtually disappeared. I have lived here full time for over 16 years. The country is safe for anyone to visit. Just use common sense and you’ll be just fine. I certainly feel safer here than in just about any city in North America. So come and visit, enjoy Nicaragua and its people. You may just decide to stay….

Thanks for the input J.S!

I am so happy you wrote this comment because I plan on going in June 2020 and when I read the article I second guessed the entire trip

You are supporting and helping the people of this beautiful country by going! They should not suffer due to their government! Amazing and beautiful place! Little Corn Island is an absolute paradise fyi!

I absolutely agree! Nicaragua is an incredible place, and the people even more so.

I’m going soon, glad I saw the comments at the end as I was thinking of cancelling.

Hi Jim, I’m replying here cause the comments collapse weird on mobile.

You ask how deep the crisis is, I will say it’s safe for you to continue with your plans with some caveats:

Nicaragua used to be affordable. Even cheap. That’s the main problem. After 2018 inflation went above every Central American nation. This affects everything, from the price of a donut to an airplane ticket. Look it up.

Also, because of the unrest, society has become very insular, distrusting of each other and foreigners and especially the government.

Third, the services and hospitality industry has collapsed and this creates speculation at every level of the economy. Normally this would result in savings but, like the Airlines, they need to charge more money to fewer visitors as before to make ends meet.

Can you travel without incident through the country? Well, besides obvious hot spots as Managua, Masaya and Ometepe which have gained a bad status, yes, you can travel safely.

Going to SJDS will probably turn into a pleasant experience for you especially if you’ve never been there before and have no reference point. So enjoy your trip!

Thanks for your insights.

Even if it is the safest among many dangerous countries why would you want to support a government/country that has treated its own people so unfairly. Support other countries with just as much to offer tourists.

Hi Dolores. Our hope is always that we’re supporting the communities in countries like Nicaragua that benefit from tourists. We don’t support oppressive governments, but we also don’t recommend boycotting these destinations because communities take a much bigger hit than their governments.

This is a good point. The money we spend there can be better spent elsewhere with better results. Besides everything is crazy expensive in Nicaragua right now.

Great page but way out of date with lots of incorrect information. Nicaragua is back to normal and is by far the safest nation between Mexico and Columbia. The failed attempted coup ended in July 2018 and there have been no major killings or protests since. I am a United Methodist Missionary who lived in Nicaragua for 31 years – my kids and nieces and nephews and sisters in law are still there and I go at least three times a year. The people are incredibly nice and helpful, the beaches are gorgeous as are so many other areas. Managua has improved by leaps and bounds with good restaurants and hotels in every price category, markets, malls and lots to do downtown which was destroyed in the 1972 earthquake.

We are starting to hear from various sources that Nicaragua is indeed safe again. It’s good to hear this too as we love visiting the country.

Thanks for sharing this with us.

thank you for this info. we are planning to spend a month in Granada, and truly look forward to a wonderful experience

Very captivating and unexpected, as I’ve been to Nicaragua some 30 years ago I’m now in

Really, What beautiful cathedrals? They are eyesores…

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Is Nicaragua Safe To Visit In 2024? Safety Tips From My First-Hand Experience

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 47 mins read
• Post last modified: February 10, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Nicaragua is one of the least explored countries in Central America. Before visiting, I heard different stories and people telling me how dangerous it was and that I should’ve been careful. So, I went to travel to Nicaragua to experience it by myself.

After  spending a month in the country , I can say  Nicaragua is safe to travel . While you have to  be more cautious  and use your common sense, it’s one of the safest countries in the Americas.

In this article, I’ll give you  top safety tips  from my  first-hand experience.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Can I Travel To Nicaragua Right Now?

Yes, you can travel to Nicaragua right now. And I highly recommend you do so. Nicaragua is a stunning country with friendly people, incredible nature, and interesting culture. It’s one of my favorite countries I’ve visited. It’s less crowded than the neighboring Costa Rica and very unique.

General Statistic For Safety In Nicaragua

To help you understand how safe Nicaragua really is, I’ve got some statistics and official world safety rankings for you.

Nicaragua is ranked  #123 on the Global Peace Index  among all countries in the world (e.g., safer than the US, Mexico, Brazil, Israel, Turkey , and other popular travel destinations).

While it’s not the safest country to travel to (well, it’s not Iceland), I felt safe; locals are friendly, and using your common sense will keep you safe.

Is Nicaragua Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Yes , Nicaragua is safe for solo female travelers. But if you decide to travel individually, you should follow these 2 simple rules : don’t walk alone at night, and be aware of taxi scams (don’t take a taxi at night, especially in Managua).

Taking this advice and using your common sense will keep you safe as a solo female traveler in Nicaragua. I met two women traveling solo in Nicaragua , and they told me they felt safe most of the time. So you shouldn’t be afraid too much.

Is Nicaragua Safe For American Tourists?

Yes, Nicaragua is safe for American tourists. You’ll especially feel safe in cities such as Granada , Leon , and San Juan del Sur . I recommend asking your hotel to call a taxi and not walking alone at night. These two things will keep you extra safe in Nicaragua.

Safety For Backpackers In Nicaragua

Yes, Nicaragua is safe for backpackers. I was backpacking in Nicaragua with my boyfriend for a month and felt mostly safe . We took taxis, buses, and boats, and everything went fine. My general advice is not to walk outside or take a taxi anywhere at night.

Otherwise, Nicaragua is a beautiful country, perfect for backpackers to explore.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Nicaragua Itinerary: 7 Days With Map & Tips

9 Safety Tips For Traveling Nicaragua: My Experience

As I mentioned above, I traveled to Nicaragua for a month with my boyfriend. Thanks to the time, I’ve gathered some of the best safety tips and got a whole experience in the country.

With that said, here are my top 9 safety tips for you if you want to experience this beautiful country.

1. Don’t Walk Outside At Night Alone

Walking outside at night, especially as a solo female traveler, is unsafe in Nicaragua. Make sure you join a group of travelers if you want to go out.

It also depends on the place where you’re at. For instance, I felt safe walking around at night in Granada and Leon . I didn’t feel safe at night in Managua and Bluefields . So always plan accordingly.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: Avoid walking in places such as Bluefields and Managua or hidden neighborhoods at night.

2. Don’t Take A Taxi At Night

Taking a taxi at night can be dangerous in Nicaragua. I’m not saying not to take it, but you should be cautious. Tell the taxi driver even 5 times where you want to go and make sure he understands. While driving to your destination, check Google Maps to see if he is driving you where you told him.

Generally, I didn’t have any issues with taxi drivers in Nicaragua. You usually also get a feeling of the person before entering the taxi, whether the driver is fair or looks a bit suspicious.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: If you need to take a taxi at night, get a taxi driver recommended by local friends or tell your hotel to call a taxi for you . You can trust these and avoid any dangerous situations.

3. Avoid Taking A Night Bus

This is something to do if you want to be extra safe . If it’s a night bus from bigger companies such as Tica Bus, it’s fine to take it . I’m talking about the local buses in Nicaragua , especially on the route to and from Bluefields .

I took a night bus from Bluefields to Managua , and while I felt safe throughout the journey, this route is famous for drug traffic . The story goes that police stopped our bus 15 minutes after departing Bluefields and held us there for almost 2 hours. They found drugs in a local’s luggage and detected her.

Only after I thought about what would happen if someone stuck drugs into my backpack without me knowing, I would’ve been in trouble and perhaps don’t leave Nicaragua for a decade. That woman was imprisoned for 12 years .

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: Always watch your stuff when taking local buses, and don’t take the night bus from Bluefields for extra safety.

4. Don’t Walk Around With Valuables

Avoid walking around with too many valuable things. If you have a phone, that’s fine, sure. But be sure to have it in your pocket or hold it tight. Always watch your belongings and keep your backpack closed all the time.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: Don’t wear expensive jewelry & expensive clothes – this makes you stand out, and you’ll be like a magnet for thefts.

5. Don’t Leave A Lot Of Cash Inside Your Hostel/Hotel Room

Luckily this didn’t happen to me, but I’ve heard stories from other travelers that they left cash in their room, and after they came back, it was gone. Housekeeping staff took advantage of seeing the cash and just took it while cleaning their room.

So either tell the reception you don’t want your room cleaned. Or my advice would be to hide the cash as well as you possibly can . If you put the cash into a rare place , nobody will find it. The housekeeping also only has a little time to look for it. So it’s just a matter of hiding your cash well.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: Store your cash in a bunch of clothes, in your hygiene purse, or a book and hide that book in a suitcase stuffed with clothes.

6. Don’t Leave Your Stuff Unattended On The Beach

Similarly, don’t leave your belongings unattended on the beach. I’ve also heard stories of travelers leaving a book with cash on the beach and going for a swim. After 10 minutes, when they came back, the book was there, and the cash was gone.

But come on; this is a bad idea to leave your cash in a book standing alone and walking away. Be smart ; either don’t take much cash with you or none at all . After all, you’re going for a swim and don’t need a lot of cash or many belongings with you.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: Ask fellow travelers to watch your stuff if you want to leave it on the beach alone for a while.

7. Don’t Believe Everything What You Hear To Avoid Scams

Locals are clever, sometimes too smart. And they’re very good at scamming people. Always double-check and think twice when you get some information from locals.

I was at the bus terminal in Rivas , traveling from Ometepe to San Juan del Sur. I came to Rivas in a taxi and wanted to change to Rivas and take a bus to San Juan del Sur.

After arriving at Rivas bus terminal, I didn’t even properly stand on the ground with both feet, and locals started yelling at me , offering me a taxi ride to San Juan del Sur and other locations. When I told some I wanted to go to San Juan, they said there was no bus . They claimed the last bus left 5 minutes ago, and the last possible bus only left at night around 10:00 pm (it was 4:00 pm).

I just ignored them and walked towards the buses to double-check . After walking around and asking individual buses and people waiting there whether there was a bus to San Juan del Sur, I found a bus with passengers about to leave in 3 minutes. So I took it.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: Locals take advantage of you being new in the country and not knowing things . So don’t listen to everyone . Always double-check first whether it’s true what they’re saying. Take your time to think, and only after taking action.

8. Think Twice Before You Take Action

As I’ve mentioned, take your time to think and re-evaluate a situation before you take action . This applies to everything you do in Nicaragua. If a taxi driver tells you a price that seems too high for you, either negotiate or walk away and find another one.

If somebody wants to exchange your dollars for Nicaraguan Cordoba (local currency) on the street, think before you do so. First, ask him how much would you get and then double-check online at XE.com if the amount is correct.

In case anyone tells you there is no bus to your destination, double-check first . Perhaps it’s not true, and they tell you because they can charge you more for the ride.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: People sometimes put pressure on you to make a decision right away. You don’t have to. Take as much time as you need , think first, evaluate whether it’s the right thing to do, and only then take action .

9. Use Common Sense

I know this sounds cliche, but it’s my most important advice when traveling to any country, not just Nicaragua. Listening to yourself and your feelings and using common sense will tell you something is wrong.

We, as human beings, are naturally careful when it comes to our safety . So your body will tell you. You might naturally feel less safe in Bluefields because some people might have that scary or unsafe vibe . You’ll know somebody is lying to you because they put too much unnecessary pressure on you.

💡 PRO SAFETY TIP: So think and use your common sense. It’ll keep you safe while traveling to Nicaragua.

General Safety Tips For Traveling Nicaragua

Now that you have my insights into safety when traveling in Nicaragua let’s talk about general safety tips such as entry requirements, getting around, health risks, scams and crime in Nicaragua, and money safety.

All these tips will keep you safe while traveling in Nicaragua and help you avoid all possible troubles and scams . So keep reading.

Nicaragua Entry Requirements

First of all, check if you need Visa to travel to Nicaragua. You can do so by clicking this link and seeing all the necessary documents and visas you need for Nicaragua. Or click on the box below and see what you need to enter Nicaragua from your country of residence.

Furthermore, there are general entry requirements to enter Nicaragua, except for Visa:

• Fill Out Online Entry Form
• Entrance fee of $14
• Valid Passport
• Confirmation of your hotel/hostel stay

To enter Nicaragua, you must complete this form online before traveling. It asks you for your personal information, and it’s for the government to track who is entering the country and when is your approximate time you’ll leave.

You’ll also have to pay $14 to enter the country (as of 2023). Everyone must pay this general entry fee when crossing the border or arriving at an international airport in Managua.

Additionally, you need a valid passport (make sure it’s not going to expire in the next 6 months) and a confirmation of your hotel/hostel stay .

👉 READ ALSO: How To Get From Costa Rica To Nicaragua – further tips for border crossing

Getting Around Nicaragua – Taxis & Buses

MEDIUM RISK

Taking a taxi in Nicaragua is safe . Don’t Uber ; it can be subject to many scams . Instead, take a regular taxi . The safest is to let your hotel or hostel reception staff call a taxi for you. They work with particular taxi drivers, so you know you can rely on them, and they’ll drive you safely to your destination.

If you’re in a city taking a taxi on your own, tell the driver even 5 times where you want to go . Then check Google Maps while driving to see if he’s going in the right direction.

💡 PRO TIP: Make sure to negotiate the price before hopping into the taxi . Agree on the exact price you’ll make and try to make it lower (negotiate). Once you agree on a specific price with the driver, get into the taxi. Only enter a taxi knowing/agreeing on the price before. Otherwise, the drivers will take advantage of it and charge you more .

Is Public Transportation Safe In Nicaragua?

Public transportation is generally safe in Nicaragua . You should know, though, that the bus drivers drive like crazy . They drive very fast , and the road isn’t in the best condition, so it gets bumpy (I’m mainly talking about the bus route Managua – Bluefields). Yet, don’t worry, it’s safe.

If you take ferries and boats , it might look unsafe , too. These ferries and boats don’t have extra safety measures; they give you a lifevest, that’s it. The sea gets rough , so take a pill against sea sicknesses if you need. But generally, captains check the weather , and they often cancel the boat rides if the weather conditions are bad. So you shouldn’t be worried.

💡 PRO TIP: Be aware of drug traffic on the Carribean coastline of Nicaragua. Watch your backpack and belongings all the time when taking public transportation.

Risk Of Natural Disasters In Nicaragua

There is a number of potential natural disasters in Nicaragua. The main ones are:

• Volcano eruptions

The hurricane season in Nicaragua is between June and November . Some hurricanes have caused a lot of damage, while some were of minor importance. So check the weather forecast and news before traveling to avoid this natural disaster.

Nicaragua is a land of volcanoes . There are 19 altogether, and 7 volcanoes are still active . The last volcano eruption in Nicaragua was in 2012. While it shouldn’t put you off visiting this beautiful country, you should be aware of it, too.

Too much rain and hurricanes can cause floods in the country. This might be an additional natural threat when traveling to Nicaragua.

Health Risks In Nicaragua

As for health risks, malaria is a common disease in Nicaragua. While it’s nothing to fear, you should be aware of it.

You might also face gut health issues , such as diarrhea and stomach sickness . Make sure to eat in clean spaces . Avoid drinking tap water and raw milk/dairy products.

As an experienced traveler, you know you sometimes can’t avoid feeling sick on the road. So if it happens, don’t panic . Stay calm and in bed for a day or two; relax your body , and it’ll be fine. If not, see a doctor.

Nicaragua has great medical services , and the hospital in Managua (capital city) is amazing. Many people travel here specifically to get cheaper treatments and surgeries.

Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Nicaragua?

Tap water in Nicaragua isn’t safe to drink . Honestly, I didn’t even try it and always bought water bottles. Drinking tap water in Nicaragua may cause gut problems and diarrhea , so avoid it.

Crime In Nicaragua

MEDIUM – HIGH RISK

You should be aware of the high crime risk in Nicaragua. But again, please don’t let it put you off visiting this stunning country. The danger is everywhere globally; the best precaution is to know about it and behave accordingly.

The most common crime cases in Nicaragua are:

• drug smuggling
• express kidnapping

Drug smuggling is widespread on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua . Bluefields is the drug hub where all the drug traffic occurs. That’s why I told you to avoid taking the night bus from there. Also, it’s dangerous walking at night on the streets of Bluefields. Throughout the day, I felt safe.

Theft is also common in Nicaragua. But if you use your common sense and follow the safety tips I gave you earlier in this article, you’ll be fine.

Assault and express kidnapping may also occur. Avoid walking in hidden streets without people and tourists. Stay in the common areas of any city and generally avoid walking/traveling around at night in Nicaragua.

Armed gangs are common in northern Nicaragua , the border with Honduras. So be aware of that, too. You’ll be fine if you cross the border with a local travel supplier or an official bus company.

Pickpockets & Scams In Nicaragua

There is a high risk of pickpockets in Nicaragua, too. But again, follow the safety tips I gave you from my experience and use your common sense . You’ll be fine this way. I believe pickpocketing happens when people don’t care and walk around with an open backpack or leave their phone/belongings unattended.

The most common scams in Nicaragua are:

• money scams

A taxi scam happened to me. A taxi driver charged us 10 times more for a ride because he claimed it was more expensive at night to drive, and he also had to wait for us to arrive on a ferry. We got this taxi driver recommended by our friends, so I didn’t even negotiate the price before as I believed our friends recommended us a fair driver. But, well, things happen regardless.

💡 PRO TIP: Always negotiate the price before entering a taxi. This way, you’ll avoid any taxi scams.

Another common scam in Nicaragua is a money scam . Think of people giving you a bad exchange rate in an office, fake bank notes , or on the street or giving you a wrong change . Keep reading the section below for money scams if you want to learn more.

Money Safety In Nicaragua

Nicaragua’s most common money scams are fake bank notes and wrong exchange rates .

Fake Bank Notes When Exchanging Cash

Random people are standing/sitting on the streets that will offer you local cash in exchange for your dollars. Be very careful. I saw people doing these money exchanges, and I did it once, too.

We were in a taxi driving to our hotel in Managua and needed to change money to pay the taxi driver. We trusted this guy as he drove us before, and he pulled over on the street and helped us exchange the money with the guy standing there. But I think I wouldn’t do this cash exchange alone.

💡 PRO TIP: I would avoid exchanging cash on the streets as the bank notes might be fake . If you exchange money, make sure it’s an official exchange place . Also, check the rate online on XE.com before and then count whether they gave you the exact cash it was supposed to be.

ATM Withdrawals & Cash

It’s safe to use ATMs in Nicaragua. I recommend withdrawals from ATMs in bigger shopping malls or safer cities such as Granada and Leon. If you plan to travel to remote areas such as the Carribean Coast and the Corn Islands, withdraw cash before.

💡 PRO TIP: Calculate how much you need to explore the country for the number of days you’ll spend there. Exchange the appropriate amount . Avoid carrying too much cash around.

What Is The Safest Part In Nicaragua? Safest Places In Nicaragua

As with all countries, Nicaragua has its safe places and not-so-safe ones. If you want to be extra safe and avoid any trouble while traveling in the country, I recommend visiting the safe places.

The safest part of Nicaragua is the western part of the country , the Pacific coastline, and cities such as Leon, Granada, Popoyo, San Juan del Sur, and Ometepe Island.

Here is a list of the safest places in Nicaragua . I visited all of them and felt super safe throughout my stay.

✅ GRANADA – Granada is a stunning, rather small colonial town, and I consider it to be the safest place in Nicaragua. It’s a beautiful town with many facilities, beautiful hotels, great cafes, and many attractions, and it always feels safe. The people are super friendly and engaging, and the community helps each other.

👉 READ ALSO : Where To Stay In Granada Nicaragua

✅ LEON – Leon, located in the northern part of Nicaragua, is another safe place to visit. It’s the second biggest city in the country (after Managua), and while it has its sketchy neighborhoods, staying in the city center is very safe.

👉 READ ALSO : Where To Stay In Leon Nicaragua

✅ POPOYO – Popoyo is a small village on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua. It’s the main surfing hub and a great destination to relax and enjoy the quietness. It’s a very remote place, slightly difficult to get to, and one of the country’s safest places.

👉 READ ALSO : Where To Stay In Popoyo Nicaragua – one of the best surfing destinations worldwide

✅ SAN JUAN DEL SUR – San Juan is another touristy area, and most people visit it when traveling in Nicaragua. It’s a main beach destination and a great place to try surfing, too.

✅ OMETEPE – Another super-safe place in Nicaragua is Ometepe Island. As with Granada, I felt the safest in Ometepe. The locals are nice and friendly, and I didn’t feel danger at any corner. It’s a great destination to experience adventure, go hiking, and spend time in beautiful nature.

👉 READ ALSO : Where To Stay In Ometepe & 11 Unique Things To Do On Ometepe Island

✅ CORN ISLANDS – Corn Islands in the Caribbean Sea are a true paradise. Little Corn Island is by far the most beautiful island I’ve visited (that’s not a joke). Locals are super friendly, always smiling; it’s another world, calm and relaxing. So if you want a proper beach vacation, visit the Corn Islands as one of the safest places in Nicaragua.

Disclaimer: I do have to mention that there is some drug traffic around these islands and Bluefields, but it didn’t affect me in any way when I was there.

👉 READ ALSO : How To Get To Corn Island From Managua

What Should You Avoid In Nicaragua? Less Safe Places In Nicaragua

You should avoid two things in Nicaragua: walking outside (especially alone) and taking a taxi at night.

With that said, there are less safe places in Nicaragua. I wouldn’t say you should specifically avoid these places. But I consider them less safe than the places I mentioned above. You have to be more careful when visiting the following places in Nicaragua.

📍 BLUEFIELDS – Bluefields is commonly known as the drug hub in Nicaragua. There is a lot of drug traffic not just in Bluefields but the entire Caribbean coast. With that, some danger arises naturally. I felt safe in Bluefields during the day. But it’s really dangerous walking around at night. So please don’t do it; even locals don’t do so.

👉 READ ALSO: How To Get From Managua To Bluefields

📍 MANAGUA – The capital city of Nicaragua, Managua, is quite controversial. While getting around in the city center is safe, some parts can be dangerous. But as a traveler, you rarely end up in these hidden and dangerous areas. So if you stay within the city center and avoid walking around at night, you’ll be fine.

👉 READ ALSO : How To Get From Costa Rica To Nicaragua (Managua)

📍 SAN CARLOS – I have yet to go to San Carlos myself, but I’ve heard from many travelers that it’s less safe than other areas. It still is common to visit it while traveling in Nicaragua. It’s a jungle area, so be aware of potential health risks and theft in remote areas. But again, if you use your common sense, you’ll be fine.

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions below to give you even more information. So check them out.

Is Costa Rica Safer Than Nicaragua?

Costa Rica is slightly safer than Nicaragua because it’s a major tourist country in Central America. Generally, Costa Rica and its moto ‘Pura Vida’ has welcomed tourists and kept them safe. While Nicaragua is a safe country, there are things to consider that Costa Rica handles better, such as walking at night or taxi services.

Is It Safe To Live In Nicaragua?

Yes, Nicaragua is safe to live in. Generally, it depends on where you choose to live and the people you’re surrounded by. Nicaragua’s safest places to live are Leon, Granada, San Juan del Sur, and the Corn Islands.

I’ve met a Canadian couple who moved to and lived in Nicaragua for about 2 years. They told me they were the happiest there and always felt safe. Despite a hurricane, they stayed there and could sustain their lives.

Is Managua Nicaragua Safe?

Yes , Managua is safe in the center . The outskirts of Managua are pretty sketchy , so I recommend avoiding these places. To be honest, Managua felt the most unsafe of all places in Nicaragua to me. But the center was fine.

WRAP-UP: Safety In Nicaragua

Taking all of this advice into consideration,  Nicaragua is a safe destination to travel to . While it has some crime rate and dangerous parts, if you  follow these safety tips  from my article, you’ll be fine whether you travel the country as a backpacker or a solo woman traveler. Most importantly, use your common sense, and you’ll be fine.

If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Nicaragua Travel

Looking to visit more places in Nicaragua? Check out my related articles:

Nicaragua Backpaking Itinerary For 7 Days

11 Unique Things To Do On Ometepe Island Nicaragua

Where To Stay In Ometepe Nicaragua

Where To Stay In Granada Nicaragua

Where To Stay In Leon Nicaragua

How To Get From Costa Rica To Nicaragua

How To Get To Corn Island From Managua

Is It Safe To Fly From Lima To Cusco? Revealed!

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

NICARAGUA : Interested in more articles for Nicaragua? Check out my Nicaragua Travel Page .

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Nicaragua

Nicaragua is often referred to as “the land of lakes and volcanoes” because of its chain of volcanoes. that runs from the north to the south along the country’s Pacific side and the high number of lakes. The biological diversity and warm tropical climate make Nicaragua a popular tourist destination. With misty volcanoes, gorgeous beaches, and dense rain forests, Nicaragua mush to offer.

You can fill your trip with a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, kayaking, swimming and zip lining. If you want a more laid back vacation, you can go to the Corn Islands for some nightlife and lying out on the beach.

Want to see some incredible wildlife? Take a boat into the Indio Maiz Biological Reserve, the largest area of untouched rain forest north of the Amazon. Check out León or Granada for colonial architecture and local attractions. Have a cup of Nicaraguan coffee and enjoy the scenery while you’re soaking up the country’s culture and history.

Do I Need Vaccines for Nicaragua?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Nicaragua. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Nicaragua: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne & Direct Contact – Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

If you are visiting low-altitude areas malaria can be a risk. Consider getting an antimalarial medication from your local Passport Health travel health specialist.

Zika virus is present in Nicaragua. Women who or pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Dengue , another mosquito-borne disease, is also present in the country. Take extra precautions including bringing mosquito repellents and using bed netting.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nicaragua?

A visa is not required for Nicaragua, but you will need to buy a tourist card on arrival. These cards are given at customs checkpoints. If you would prefer to skip the line, visas are available for U.S. travelers.

Sources: Embassy of Nicaragua and U.S. State Department

What Is the Climate Like in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is divided into three areas: Pacific lowlands, highlands, and Caribbean lowlands. Each of these areas has a different climate with the differences in elevation. Here’s what the climate is like in a few of the major cities in Nicaragua:

• Managua – The capital has a tropical climate with constant temperatures in the 80’s and 90’s. Between November and April there is a dry season. Most rainfall occurs between May and October. Temperatures reach their highest in the dry season.
• León – January to March there are dry periods and from April to December there is a rainy season. December is the wettest month and on average the temperature is high, between the 80’s and 90’s. The warmest month of the year tends to be April, pack for the heat.
• San Juan del Sur – This popular destination has a tropical savanna climate. Temperature average between the 70’s and 80’s. With its elevation, there is rarely a change with seasons during the year.

How Safe Is Nicaragua?

There is no travel warning listed for Nicaragua. But, there is a high violent crime rate. Exercise caution while traveling.

Nicaragua’s government is authoritarian; it limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Demonstrations happen throughout the country and many have turned violent in the past. For safety, try to avoid large gatherings and potential demonstrations.

Violent crimes such as vehicle burglaries, armed robberies, and pick-pocketing are not uncommon. Crime rates are high in the cities with street crime being common in Puerto Cabezas and Bluefields. Outside of the major cities police presence is limited. Be careful when venturing outside of popular tourist and urban areas.

Know the local laws of where you’re traveling. Keep your documents on hand, and have embassy information with you in case of emergencies.

Ometepe Island

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

Ometepe Island is a great place for tourists who love nature and outdoor activities. It is an island located in Lake Nicaragua, the biggest lake in Central America. It is unique because it has two big volcanoes, Concepcion and Maderas, which offer great hiking and biking opportunities.

Tourists can explore the lush rainforest, see wildlife like howler monkeys and parrots, and visit the Charco Verde Nature Reserve. They can also visit the natural spring-fed pool, Ojo de Agua, and the San Ramon waterfall. Tourists can learn about the island’s culture and history by visiting the small villages, museums, art galleries and local handicraft shops.

Ometepe Island is a fun and educational destination for tourists who enjoy nature, culture and outdoor activities.

What Should I Take to Nicaragua?

Your clothing will definitely depend on the time of year you visit. Depending on the region you visit you may have a very hot temperature or a cooler one. Here are a few essentials you should bring with you when you travel to Nicaragua:

• Umbrella/Raincoat – If you’re traveling to Nicaragua during the wet season, pack a small umbrella or a raincoat.
• Lightweight Clothing – The temperature averages are relatively high in Nicaragua year round. Having lightweight, breathable clothing will keep you cool in the heat. Make sure you include long pants in your luggage. Shorts are seldom worn by adults except in more relaxed areas such as at the beach or in your home. If you’re going to tour churches be sure your clothing is modest.
• Sunscreen – Nicaragua is along the equator, making it very hot and sunny a majority of the time. Take precautions and pack a sunscreen with a high SPF.

U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), with the U.S. Department of State. This free program offers information from the embassy on safety conditions and will help locate you in an emergency.

U.S. Embassy Managua Km 5 ½ Carretera Sur Managua, Nicaragua Telephone: +(505) 2252-7100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(505) 2252-7100 Fax: +(505) 2252-7250 Email: [email protected]

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!

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Vaccinations You Need Before Going to Nicaragua

There's a lot to do before you go to Nicaragua . And, it's no secret that travel vaccinations aren't any fun—nobody likes getting shots, after all—but getting sick during or after your vacation is much worse than a couple of pinpricks. While your chance of contracting an illness during your Nicaragua travels is low, it's best to be prepared.

Sometimes your physician can provide you with the recommended immunizations for Nicaragua travel. In some cases, you'll have to visit a travel clinic for the more obscure inoculations. You can search for a travel clinic through the CDC's Traveler Health webpage.

Ideally, you should visit your doctor or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure to allow time for the vaccinations to take effect.

CDC Recommended Vaccinations for Nicaragua

• Typhoid: Recommended for all Central America travelers.
• Hepatitis A: "Recommended for all unvaccinated people traveling to or working in countries with an intermediate or high level of hepatitis A virus infection (see map) where exposure might occur through food or water. Cases of travel-related hepatitis A can also occur in travelers to developing countries with "standard" tourist itineraries, accommodations, and food consumption behaviors." Via the CDC's site.
• Hepatitis B: "Recommended for all unvaccinated persons traveling to or working in countries with intermediate to high levels of endemic HBV transmission, especially those who might be exposed to blood or body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident)." ​Via the CDC's site.​
• Routine vaccines: Make sure your routine vaccinations, such as tetanus, MMR, polio, and others are all up to date.
• Rabies: Recommended for Nicaragua travelers who will be spending a great deal of time outdoors (especially in rural areas), or who will be in direct contact with animals.

The CDC also recommends Nicaragua travelers take precautions against malaria, such as antimalarial drugs, if they're traveling in rural areas. There is no malaria present in Managua.

Always check the CDC's Nicaragua Travel page to for up-to-date Nicaragua vaccination information and other travel health tips.

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By: Melanie Gordon (Contributor) · Last Updated: January 30, 2024

10 Reasons to Visit Nicaragua ASAP: Central America’s Hidden Gem

Looking for a few reasons why you should visit Nicaragua? Considering the country’s two incredible coastlines, almost 20 volcanoes, lively colonial cities, abundant wildlife, rich culture, and delicious food, it won’t be hard to convince you to put “visiting Nicaragua” at the top of your travel bucket list!

This charming land of lakes, volcanoes, jungles, and amazing surf is ripe for adventure and jam-packed with unspoiled natural beauty. If you’re intrepid enough to visit, you’ll soon understand why we think Nicaragua is one of the most underrated gems in all of Central America.

Whether you’re a backpacker, remote worker, honeymooner or adventure seeker, there are thousands of reasons to visit Nicaragua: the Central American country that has it all.

Here are our top 10 reasons why you should travel to Nicaragua as soon as possible!

Why Visit Nicaragua? 10 Reasons to Travel to Nicaragua ASAP!

#1 Discover “Nica Charm” & Authentic Culture

Try finding a more charming land than the largest country in Central America. Nicaragua translates to “here united with the water.” Since it’s bordered by two oceans and boasts many lakes and rivers, the name is certainly fitting!

Like many other countries in Latin America, Nicaragua is a melting pot. Of course, the Spaniards colonized the western region in 1524, and then, much later, the British took the east – each bringing their own unique cultures, traditions, and languages. Today, there are seven indigenous groups that make up about 5% of the country’s population, and whose local cuisine, language, and art can be found everywhere from the capital city of Managua, to the Caribbean islands.

What truly sets this gorgeous country apart, though, is its “Nica Charm” : the joyous, wise, and accepting nature of Nicaraguan people – a friendly people who have been through more than enough strife to find the light on the other side of the tunnel.

Simply put, the top reason to visit Nicaragua is to experience its rich and entirely unique culture.

#2 Play on Dual Coastlines & Caribbean Islands

Caribbean & pacific oceans.

Why choose one ocean when you can have two ?

Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast boasts a breathtaking 30 miles of unspoiled Pacific coastline with some of the best beaches, sunsets, and swells ever . Then, the Caribbean coastline (Miskito Coast/Mosquito Coast) on the eastern side offers a completely unique experience from the rest of Nicaragua. Hearing Creole-English, plus a number of Indigenous languages, will make you wonder if you’re still in Nicaragua!

Corn Islands

Desire more of an island vibe? Corn Island & Little Corn Island on the Caribbean Sea will deliver. The Corn Islands offer brilliant azure waters for incredible snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and more!

Costa Rica , Nicaragua’s southern neighbor, can’t offer you the perfect surfing conditions (surfers, scroll to #4) and Caribbean island life that Nicaragua can. Sorry (not sorry)!

#3 Explore the Historic Colonial Cities of León & Granada

Compared to other great colonial cities in the Americas (like Antigua and Oaxaca City ), Granada and León are highly underrated!

On the surface, they appear to be quite similar, but the lighthearted rivalry of León versus Granada goes way back to the early 1500s when the two competed for the title of Nicaragua’s “capital city” (now Managua). While both cities are home to picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, a myriad of grand colonial churches, quaint city parks, chic cafés, and museums, they each have their own distinct vibe. Both cities are endlessly charming, with their own unique and authentic flavors – and not to mention, exquisite local food!

If you want our take, both cities are absolute gems. And you must visit both!

Must-Have Experiences in León

• León City Guided Walking Tour
• Sunset at the active El Telica Volcano
• Somoto Canyon National Monument Private Tour

Must-Have Experiences in Granada

• Granada City Guided Tour
• Isleta Sunset Boat Ride
• Masaya Volcano Night Tour

Ready to explore beautiful Granada? Check out our guide to the 10 Best Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua !

HOT TIP: While in Granada, make sure you stay at Hotel Plaza Colon . And in León, Hotel El Convento Leon Nicaragua is your place. If we’ve already convinced you to visit Nicaragua, then click here to book your trip now !

#4 Surf Some of the Best Waves in the World

If you’re a surfer, then the waves are likely your #1 reason to visit Nicaragua. Maybe you’ve heard of San Juan del Sur, but unless you love to party, we say skip it. Instead, head straight for the surf breaks along the Emerald Coast: Playa Maderas , Playa Colorado , and Popoyo (our favorite).

Boasting all-day offshore winds 300 days per year, surfers are realizing that Nicaragua is one of the best (and most affordable) surf destinations in the world.

If you’re looking for the perfect beachfront boutique surf lodge in Popoyo, we highly recommend 99 Surf Lodge . The chic minimalist design, 4-sides infinity pool, and organic contemporary cuisine are sure to impress!

Bonus: The remote areas and beaches along the Pacific coast are almost deserted (aside from San Juan del Sur). And there’s nothing like having a place all to yourself – in and out of the water!

#5 Experience Isla de Ometepe: A One-of-a-Kind Island

Picture an infinity-shaped island, comprised of two volcanoes, on the largest lake in Central America. Sounds pretty magical, right? It is.

An energy vortex of sorts, drawing people from all over the world to explore its lush nature, observe wildlife, and soul-search within, Ometepe Island is absolutely a reason to visit Nicaragua.

Between famous hostels El Pital Chocolate Paradise and El Zopilote Permaculture Farm , there are enough activities to keep you busy for weeks. Plus, don’t miss trying a sacred Cacao Ceremony or Temazcal sweat lodge!

More recommended activities on Ometepe are hiking the two volcanoes (see #7), kayaking trips, swimming in the famous pools of Ojo de Agua , and trying mouthwatering local foods (see #9).

HOT TIP: To see the entire island, definitely rent a motorcycle or scooter. You can click here to book your motorcycle or scooter rental! Just be careful of bumpy roads and animals!

#6 Explore Nicaragua’s Many Lakes

With seemingly endless lakes and lagoons to explore in Nicaragua, there are (at least) a few that you can’t miss.

Lake Nicaragua (Lake Cocibolca)

You already know that Lake Nicaragua is the largest lake in Central America, with Ometepe Island and the Islets of Granada dotted throughout. But did you know that it’s also home to the freshwater bull shark? Terrifying!

Try not to think about the creatures lurking below during your kayaking trip between the two volcanoes in Ometepe , or when you’re in Granada on your Islet Tour to see the 365 mini islands on the lake.

HOT TIP: While you’re there, why not stay a night at this amazing eco-lodge right on the water ?! Click here to book your stay at Jicaro Island Lodge now.

Apoyo Lagoon (Laguna de Apoyo)

Another must-see lake is the Laguna de Apoyo ! This crater lake was formed by volcanic implosion 23,000 years ago and is a very popular day trip from Granada.

If you want to get active on the lagoon, we highly recommend Nicaragua’s only freediving school, Freediving Nicaragua . This freshwater lake is the perfect environment for freedivers! (Did we mention it’s shark free?)

HOT TIP: If you want to experience the magic of the Laguna de Apoyo in style, then there’s no place better to stay than Casa Marimba . Click here to book your stay now!

Pearl Lagoon (Laguna de Perlas)

Our final lake spotlight is on Pearl Lagoon. Situated on the Caribbean coast, this reserve’s boundless natural beauty, marine life, and protected flora and fauna is perfect for the photography or nature enthusiast!

By booking this trip , you’ll get the opportunity to venture out of the lagoon to swim in the sparkling Caribbean Sea and see the 18 small islands known as the the Pearl Cays. An unforgettable trip!

#7 See (and Hike!) the Magnificent Volcanoes

You’ll find dozens of majestic volcanoes in Nicaragua – some active, some not. Whether you’re into challenging hikes, sandboarding, or simply soaking in beautiful views, seeing these formidable displays of nature is another top reason to travel to Nicaragua ASAP.

Masaya Volcano

If you come to the land of volcanoes, you have to get up close to some active volcanoes. Hands down, the most popular volcano for tourists is the Masaya Volcano .

HOT TIP: Book this Masaya Night Tour so you can see the lava glow as the sun goes down. Your guide will drive you right up to the rim! Or you can rent a car and go yourself !

Concepción Volcano

Fitness enthusiasts, we highly suggest hiking the Concepción Volcano on Ometepe . This hike is not for the faint of heart (or knees), and had me in tears at more than one point. But the view from the top of this 1,610-meter-tall active volcano will change you. Just be prepared for an 8-10 hour hike! You absolutely need a guided tour for this one. Click here to book your hiking tour.

Cerro Negro Volcano

Of course when you’re in León, you’ll want to slide down the face of Cerro Negro. This sandboarding tour is a go-to and offers pick-up and drop-off from the city. Be sure to take advantage of the incredible views and epic photo opportunity at the top before you sandboard down! Click here to book your Cerro Negro sandboarding tour!

Maderas Volcano

Another volcano hike to do while on Ometepe is the Maderas Volcano . Though it’s almost as tall as Concepción, its trail is less steep – a plus in our book! Not to mention, swimming in the crisp waters of Lake Maderas (Laguna Volcán Maderas) at the top is the most refreshing way to celebrate a summit! Book your Maderas Volcano hike here.

#8 Enjoy the Low Travel Costs

Another one of the top reasons to visit Nicaragua is that it’s one of the most affordable countries in Central America . For backpackers, having a budget of $15-$20/day is totally doable. But with a bit more, you can travel and eat like royalty !

In the same city, you can often find $5 hostel beds as well as affordable luxury hotels for about $100 per night.

Local food is delicious (see #9) and around $3 per dish. Restaurant meals are around $15, including a drink.

For transportation, there are taxi bikes, tuk-tuks, buses, and taxis. The bus system in Nicaragua is expansive and costs about $1 for short rides, $3-4 for longer rides. If you opt for private taxi, expect to pay about $20-$25 per hour of driving – not bad! If you want a bit more freedom, rental cars in Nicaragua are also super cheap.

#9 Savor Delicious Nicaraguan Food

Last but absolutely not least, you will find yourself enamored by the delicious food in Nicaragua!

The staple here is gallo pinto , a classic Central American mix of white rice, small red beans and onions, but Nicaraguan food doesn’t stop there.

For breakfast, have a desayuno typico to start your day off the Nica way. It’s gallo pinto , fresh eggs, and Nica cheese, sometimes with crema or pico de gallo, and tortillas or tostones (my favorite).

Lunch or snack? Try nacatamal . Not unlike the Mexican version you know, nacatamal is corn masa, stuffed with pork and potato, wrapped and steamed in a plantain leaf for on-the-go eating. You can easily find a veggie version too!

These last two are my favorite: Baho and Vigorón . Baho is a hearty dish and a hangover cure. Baho is a stew of beef, green and ripe plantains, yuca, peppers, and onions, served on a plantain leaf, and topped with slaw. Vigorón is a simple dish of boiled yuca and crispy pork rinds, but packs much flavor when topped with some mimbro (a native fruit!) and eaten in its city of origin, Granada!

#10 Appreciate Abundant Wildlife

With 78 nature reserves, parks, and wildlife sanctuaries, Nicaragua is home to incredible tropical biodiversity. You can expect to see (and hear) howler monkeys all around the country, but you’ll have to get more remote to see the elusive puma ! Other mammals to spot while exploring the jungles include spider monkeys, sloths, ocelots, jaguars, anteaters, armadillos, bears, mountain lions, and coatis.

Birdwatching is also a growing trend for ecotourism in Nicaragua, since over 700 species of birds live there! One of the most intriguing is the Guardabarranco , or turquoise-browed motmot, the Nicaraguan national bird. The white-throated magpie-jay is also another easily spotted bird in Nicaragua. It’s likely you’ll see great green macaws or keel-billed toucans in the nature preserves, as well as many bat, owl, and parrot species!

The oceans and lakes are teeming with marine life too! Some lakes and rivers contain crocodiles, caimans, and even sharks. In total, 640 known fish species and 248 amphibian and reptile species thrive in Nicaragua, including the green sea turtles, eagle rays, and plenty of toads and frogs (some poisonous!).

MORE NICARAGUA TRAVEL INSPIRATION

• The Ultimate Nicaragua Itinerary (For 1, 2, or 3 Weeks)
• Nicaragua Rainy Season: What to Know & Why You’ll Love It!
• Is it Safe to Travel to Nicaragua? A Solo Female Traveler’s Perspective
• Laguna de Apoyo, Nicaragua Travel Guide: Where to Play, Stay & Eat

10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Granada, Nicaragua

• 11 Best Things to Do in Popoyo, Nicaragua + Must-Know Travel Tips
• Ometepe Island, Nicaragua Guide: Best Things to Do, See & Eat!

Is Nicaragua Worth Visiting? 10 Awe-Inspiring Reasons to Visit Nicaragua Now!

Bordering Honduras in the north and Costa Rica in the south, Central America’s largest country will captivate you with its awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, warm locals, and rich culture. From the colorful cobblestone streets of Granada to the white-sand beaches of the Corn Islands, this beautiful country has it all.

Not to mention the tantalizing food around every corner and untouched jungles in the northern part of Nicaragua (think Bosawás Biosphere Reserve where 13% of the world’s species can be found!). With so many amazing reasons to visit Nicaragua, you no longer need to ask, “Is Nicaragua worth visiting?” The real question is, when are you planning your Nicaraguan getaway?

Nicaragua grants tourists 90 days in its stunning country. And if you want to stay longer, all it takes is a quick border run to Costa Rica for a new 90-day tourist visa. See you here!

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About Melanie Gordon (Contributor)

Melanie contributes travel writing and photos to Maddy's Avenue. Melanie began traveling after life threw her a major curveball in the form of a condo fire. Losing everything (including her beloved cat, Moby) presented her with the opportunity to turn a tragedy into a catalyst for growth. With nothing to lose, she set out for a solo “soul searching” journey. Turns out, this curveball set her path straight in the direction of her destiny. Through work like website design, travel writing, and sharing her passion of teaching yoga and hula hooping, she’s found the life she’s always envisioned. Follow along for more of Melanie’s travel writing, and reach out through her website or Instagram (livinginflowco.com & @livinginflowco).

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10 Epic Reasons to Visit Nicaragua at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Nicaragua is a wonderful place to visit thanks to its amazing combination of Pacific and Caribbean coasts, volcanoes, and varied ecosystems. Here are some of the best reasons why you should visit the Central American nation.

The surfing is incredible.

Explore the Pacific coast and you’ll find countless surf spots suited for beginners as well as experienced waveriders. San Juan del Sur makes a good base if you want to surf and party, while the isolated Aseradores has big waves in an isolated setting.

It’s less crowded than other Latin American countries

Diving is a big thing.

Most of the diving in Nicaragua is found on the Caribbean coast, especially around the Corn Islands. Take a short flight from the capital city of Managua and you will be in tropical paradise in no time. Get below the waves to see some of the amazing marine life, and relax under the palm trees in the evening.

The people are friendly

Nicaraguans are known for welcoming visitors, and the country also has lower crime rates in certain categories than its Central American neighbours. While petty crime can be an issue in some areas, violent crime rates are markedly lower than in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala.

It’s teeming with wildlife

Whether you are into birdwatching, marine life, or larger mammals, there is something for everyone in Nicaragua. Watch sea turtles hatch on the Pacific coast , watch the birds around Lake Nicaragua , or head off into the jungle to spot monkeys, jaguars and cougars.

Nicaragua is incredibly affordable as a destination. You can get around on a minimal budget and still experience the best of the country. Eating street food and staying in hostels is the best way to stretch your money.

Laid back colonial towns are a speciality

Head to Granada on the shores of Lake Nicaragua and you will be following in the footsteps of the colonizing Spanish who made the city their principal port in the country. Colonial history left deep scars in Nicaragua , but the Spanish architecture remains beautiful.

You can hike volcanoes

From the lava-filled depths of Masaya to the spectacular Concepcion in the middle of Lake Nicaragua, you’re never far from a volcano in Nicaragua. Hike up them, sandboard down them (at Cerro Negro near Leon), or admire them from afar.

It’s more diverse than you might think

Nicaragua is arguably two countries in one. The Spanish-speaking areas cover most of its territory, but there are also English-speaking areas on the Caribbean coast. Take a flight to Bluefields from Managua to see for yourself how life is different in those Atlantic coast areas colonized by the British.

It’s easy to hop over to other countries

Central America is relatively compact, making it a great destination for longer trips. You can easily fly into Panama or Costa Rica and travel up to Nicaragua for a flight home, or start in Guatemala and work your way down.

For more inspiration on what to see and do in Nicaragua, check out the Culture Trip to Nicaraguan places you need to visit .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in granada, nicaragua.

The Story Behind How Nicaragua Got its Name

See & Do

The best markets to visit in nicaragua, the most beautiful historical towns and cities in nicaragua.

How To Go Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

The Best Hotels in Nicaragua for Every Traveler

Guides & Tips

11 nicaraguan words and phrases you need to know.

Managua: Why This Hidden Gem Deserves to be Explored

Bars & Cafes

The best wine bars in nicaragua.

The Best Bed and Breakfasts in Nicaragua

The Best Boutique Resorts in Nicaragua

Where to Stay in Granada, Nicaragua

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The Cost of Travel in Nicaragua: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

My travels through Central America were a true adventure. Following a painless — albeit hot-and-longer-than-expected — border crossing from Costa Rica , I entered Nicaragua, home of lakes, volcanoes, and beaches. I was so excited to be there.

I spent the next month within this country’s borders, travelling northwards with my partner and we consider it one of our favourite travel experiences to date. Painless chicken bus rides, lovely people, dirt-cheap beer, and local rum made this month an incredible one. Not to mention the volcano boarding! More on that later.

Nicaragua was incredible. From the beautiful beaches of San Juan del Sur to the colonial architecture of Granada, we managed to see it all while still cramming in plenty of opportunities of relaxation. I recommend allocating a minimum of two weeks for the country, but a month would be perfection.

Sitting in the heart of Central America, Nicaragua lives up to its nickname of The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes . There’s the Pacific to the west, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and so much natural beauty squeezed in between. The colourful city of Granada on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, the pair of volcanoes on the isle of Ometepe, and the beauty of León Cathedral were just a few highlights.

And what excellent value, too! There was a host of accommodation for all budgets; the same for food. We mostly stuck to hotels and guesthouses in the $25-$55 a night range –- and did so with ease.

As with my Guatemalan budget guide , I’ll be referencing costs in dollars or the native currency. The Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO) is the native currency – at the time of writing, in early-2024, $1 equates to around 37 NIO.

As always, a brief note before I carry on: I paid for everything mentioned within this article — as always, this is a comp- and press trip-free post.

My husband and I made the bold (and never regretted) decision to take a year out to travel. If you’re considering it, I highly recommend taking the plunge.

Nicaragua came about 6 weeks in, so we were into our travelling groove by then and London life felt like a distant memory. Basics covered, so let’s get started. 

Here’s a rundown of where we visited in Nicaragua:

• San Juan del Sur: 3 nights
• Ometepe : 4 nights
• Granada : 3 nights
• Managua : 1 night
• León: 2 nights

What’s Included in this Post

The budget breakdown you’re about to read covers accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and miscellaneous costs.

Like I mentioned earlier, we travelled overland in Nicaragua – there was no reason not to. We used local travel agencies and our hotels to book buses and accommodation. Without fail, they offered much cheaper prices than online.

Our money went far in Nicaragua and we had some amazing experiences, from climbing the glistening white dome of León Cathedral to visiting Masaya, an active volcano.

The Cost of Accommodation in Nicaragua

Accommodation in Nicaragua was great value. From colonial guest houses to forest bungalows, we enjoyed a real mixture. Some places included breakfast; others charged an extra fee of around $6 per person. In the latter cases, we opted to pick something up ourselves, instead.

So, the specific places we stayed in Nicaragua were:

San Juan del Sur: At $59 a night , this incredible slice of paradise was one of our favourite places we stayed in the country. It’s all about wellness here: with a sun deck, yoga space, gorgeous swimming pool, tasty vegan food, and outdoor gym. Let’s face it: travel isn’t always the healthiest of pursuits, but when you stay here, you’ll feel like you’re nourishing your body once more. The property is located ten minutes from the beach, so offers up peaceful vibes to guests, away from the main party area. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else.

Ometepe: Our advice here? Do your research to decide where you want to stay on the island. It was bigger than we thought, and not all that easy to travel around. For our four nights, we stayed in two different places to experience slightly different areas of the figure-of-eight-shaped isle. Sitting on the southwest of vast Lake Nicaragua, Ometepe was formed by a pair of volcanoes rising out of the water. Our first stop was just outside Playa Mango and Balgüe, a dinky hamlet on the northern side of Maderas volcano. We stayed at this charming eco-lodge bungalow , set among tropical gardens with views to Concepcion Volcano and the lake. The cost? We paid $55 a night, with a top breakfast included. Santa Cruz was just four kilometres away, and Balgüe two kilometres. Peaceful and comfy, there was a pool, a restaurant, and those all-important mosquito nets in the room. This was an off-grid spot using renewable energy, so keep that in mind. And listen out for the monkeys!

For our second stop, we chose Merida, on the other side of the island. Located in the foothills of Maderas Volcano, our bungalow at this peaceful hideaway had a private balcony and mosquito nets. The staff were super helpful, and at $41 a night including breakfast, it was top value.

Granada: at this central, stylish spot with modern art adorning the bedroom walls, we paid just $30 a night including a first-rate traditional breakfast – money well spent. The property was a home in years gone by, like many hotels in the city. Inside, there was an open-air courtyard and garden, plus a shared kitchen. The owner Gaby was lovely – so friendly and helpful. She happily drove us to Masaya volcano one evening, despite the traffic and queues. 

Managua: Research told us Metrocentro was the best area for tourists to stay in the capital, so we booked this simple yet comfortab le guest house with aircon for $47 a night , just a 10-minute drive from the lake. We only stayed in Managua for one night, so it was a brief, but enjoyable pitstop with breakfast included.

León: For just $34 a night we bagged this colourful, stylish and central guest house with a pool, bbq, garden views, and a continental breakfast. Just a 15-minute stroll west of the cathedral, we did well booking this homely spot with welcoming hosts.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACCOMMODATION IN NICARAGUA CAME TO $601. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $46 PER DAY, OR $23 EACH.

THE COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN NICARAGUA

As I mentioned earlier, we travelled by chicken bus and microbus through Nicaragua. These were used by both tourists and locals. Microbuses were similar to chicken buses but with fewer stops.

If you go down the chicken bus and microbus route, keep in mind you’ll need to be flexible. Schedules seemed to change or not be entirely accurate, and they were a longer way of travelling than shuttle buses. We didn’t mind, given the distances weren’t that far and they were super cheap.

Tip: make sure you’ve got small bills and coins. That made life easier for both us and the drivers when paying.

Also, we found it best to get to the bus station early. We bought our tickets there and were one of the first to get on, ensuring we got a seat.

The buses were busy, hot, and a bit unpredictable. But they were a cost-effective way of getting around. Street food vendors popped on and off – great snacking opportunities!

Right, so here’s a breakdown of our journeys:

• Chicken bus from San Juan del Sur to Rivas: 15 NIO per person
• Taxi from Rivas to San Jorge (barter!): 105 NIO each way
• Ferry from San Jorge to Ometepe: 70 NIO per person each way
• Chicken bus from Rivas to Granada: 35 NIO per person
• Microbus from Granada to Managua: 15 NIO per person
• Microbus from Managua to León: 35 NIO per person

If chicken buses and microbuses aren’t for you, shuttle buses are an option, and still a pretty cheap way of travelling.

OUR TOTAL COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN NICARAGUA CAME TO 690 NIO or $20. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $1.50 PER DAY, OR $0.75 EACH.

THE COST OF ACTIVITIES AND ENTRANCE FEES IN NICARAGUA

How does peering into an active volcano and boarding down another one sound? They’re two of the amazing things you can, and should, do in Nicaragua.

Hike Maderas Volcano, Ometepe: 1050 NIO total. Not for the fainthearted, this lush cloud forest walk in the crater of dormant Maderas took us about 9 hours return. Take food, plenty of water, and swimming gear if you want a dip in the lagoon. You have to go with an experienced guide, which is what the cost covered. This is one for nature lovers.

Nighttime visit to Masaya Volcano , Granada: 350 NIO per person . One word: wow. What a fab evening. Our lovely host Gaby drove us here – big thanks. We queued for quite a while, but it was totally worth it to see molten lava coursing through the crater.

Lake Nicaragua boat ride, Granada: 875 NIO total. We bartered with a local fisherman who took us out for a couple of hours. At first glance the lake looked more like an ocean – we couldn’t see the other side. Once we were out on the water, we got a different impression. There were hundreds of islets (365 apparently), many with large houses on them. Some were uninhabited by humans, but did have monkeys roaming about. Monkey Island is home to five primates – one called Lucy who joined us on the boat for a swing. We stopped at Rock Island for a beer and a dip in the pool.

Iglesia La Merced viewpoint: 35 NIO per person. Close to Parque Central and viewed as one of the most beautiful churches in Granada, we paid $1 each to go up to the viewpoint for amazing city vistas.

Cerro Negro volcano boarding, León : 1700 NIO per person. A must! We absolutely loved this day out. Yes, it was quite tough (and hot) carrying quite a large wooden board up a volcano wearing a boiler suit, but so worth it. The views at the top and then the actual boarding… I did wonder what on earth I was doing as I prepared myself to slide down the black volcanic dust, but those thoughts soon disappeared. We enjoyed it that much, we climbed up for a second run. A tasty, generous lunch was included, too.

Climbed Cathedral dome, León: 105 NIO per person . The largest church in Central America and UNESCO-designated as well, we walked across the amazingly bright white-domed roof. For that small fee, we got to see wonderful views of the city… and volcanoes in the distance!

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACTIVITIES IN NICARAGUA CAME TO 5005 NIO or $143. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $11 PER DAY, OR $5.50 EACH.

THE COST OF FOOD in NICARAGUA

As always, food was a big thing for us as we travelled through Nicaragua. We ate a mixture of street food and cheap, local dishes in inexpensive restaurants. 

Great breakfasts were included in quite a lot of the places we stayed, and they set us up for the day. These usually consisted of fruit and the traditional Nicaraguan brekkie of eggs, rice and beans, cheese, plantain, and tortilla. Tasty and filling! Sometimes, we didn’t even need lunch. 

When we did eat breakfast out, we’d usually opt for something similar, and that would set us back around 70 NIO each.

Nacatamal: Similar to tamales, these were made from maize dough filled with pork, potato and spices, boiled in a plantain leaf. The cost? Around 88 NIO per nacatamal. Again, super filling!

Vigarón: Not for the veges out there, these consisted of boiled yucca (potato-like), chicharrón (fried pork skin), and cabbage slaw. A yummy on-the-go snack. Price-wise, they were around 70 NIO a portion.

Grilled meats: A staple in Nicaragua, we enjoyed this for dinner many a night. Think thin slices of beef, chicken or pork with rice and beans (gallo pinto) and tortillas. A generous plate set us back between 70-105 NIO from a street food BBQ or a local eatery.

Ugly fish (Guapote): Okay, so the name isn’t appealing, but the taste was amazing – like snapper. Our top recommendation? Las Colinas in Granada, a short cab ride out of the centre. Served with fries, rice, salad, and a sweet and sour and style vegetable topping, we loved this dish. We chose our fish size, too. On average, we paid 245 NIO per person to eat guapote at a local restaurant.

Average daily food cost: $10.80 per day, or $5.40 each

As always, bottled water was the main thing we drank, plus local beers and dark rum. Flor de Caña is made in Nicaragua, so we indulged in a few! We tended to buy a bottle from the supermarket (about 210 NIO).

 A large water cost us about 35 NIO. Victoria Clásica and Toña local beer came in at about 50 NIO for a regular size bottle.

Average daily drink cost: $8.60 per day, or $4.30 each

Reasonably priced, tasty, and filling – what more do you need?!

OUR TOTAL COST OF FOOD AND DRINK IN NICARAGUA CAME TO $253. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $19.50 PER DAY, OR $9.70 EACH.

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Nicaragua

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Nicaragua. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL IN NICARAGUA?

So, I’ve done the calculations, and here are the costings per person:

• Accommodation: $23 per day
• Transport: $0.75 per day
• Activities: $5.50 per day
• Food and drink: $9.70 per day
• Miscellaneous: $3.50 per day
• Grand total spent in Nicaragua: $42.45 per person per day .

Nicaragua, we loved you! Seeing an active volcano and boarding down one (twice) were unforgettable experiences. We would definitely travel to Nicaragua again to visit the places we missed…

HOW MUCH DID YOU THINK IT WOULD COST TO TRAVEL AROUND NICARAGUA?

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Epic post, as always. You inspired me to dig out my travel budget form my time in Nicaragua and guess what? I averaged $41 per day! Soooo close to your budget!

How funny! It’s always good to receive confirmation that my budget breakdowns are on point :-)

Nicaragua is my favorite country in Central America! So colourful, so beautiful, so vibrant, and so cheap! I can’t wait to return.

Yes!! I think it’s everybody’s favourite country in Central America, to be honest. Either that or Belize, anyway.

I really appreciate your article on Nicaragua. We had all intentions and plans to go but had to back out at the last minute. Now our plan is Belize. Do you have a break down of that?

I sure do! Here’s the Belize post .

Wow! Thank you for this truly helpful article! I’m trying to figure out where to go when I can escape New Zealand for a while (our borders are Covid-closed and it’s horrendously costly to go anywhere now, and to come back!), and your article genuinely does help make this decision. When I saw the lava in the volcano – SOLD! That is a bucket list item!

Glad I was in NI in 2021. My girlfriend and I only people at Volcan Maysaya at night. Esteli in “Nortena Nicaragua” is my favorite part of NI when the lowlands are too hot . Es mas fresco NI has 500 km of Pacific coast with beaches. Most are mas tranquillo then SJDSur. I stopped using travel insurance. Too much fine print. No coverage when you need it and after Cv(no problem for me. World travel mas tranquillo without crowds) they kept same exclusions and just raised prices! Looks like you missed some of my other favorite places here which is good. Feliz viajes

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