is nicaragua a safe place to visit

Update May 10, 2024

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Nicaragua Travel Advisory

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.

Travel Advisory Levels

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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.

Nicaragua Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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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.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

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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!

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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? What you need to know before you travel

Travelers who plan to visit Central America often wonder: is Nicaragua safe? Get essential tips for a secure, unforgettable adventure.

Worldpackers Worldpackers

Jan 15, 2024

Think Nicaragua, and your mind might dart to a land of rumbling volcanoes, lush rainforests, and beaches that stretch for miles. Yet when planning a trip here, the big question often looms: Is Nicaragua safe to travel? Let's cut through the noise.

Whispers of Nicaragua's charm have turned into full-blown conversations among travelers, painting pictures of untamed volcanoes and streets lined with colonial heritage. It’s where the adventurous at heart find solace in cloud-kissed mountains while beachcombers bask on sands that remain untouched by the rush hour of tourism.

The country's natural allure is undeniable. Volcanic adventures beckon those looking for thrills; whether it’s sledding down Cerro Negro's ash-covered slopes or gazing over Masaya Volcano’s bubbling lava at night—nature here doesn’t whisper its presence, it roars.

A visit to Leon offers another slice of Nicaraguan life where artistry and revolution intertwine; murals tell stories more vivid than any textbook could hope to capture about this nation’s resilient spirit.

Think of Nicaragua not just as a destination but an experience waiting to unfurl.

But this article is not about what to do in Nicaragua , so let's delve into what concern us now: safety in Nicaragua...

If planning a trip to other Central American countries, you might also want to read:  Is it safe to travel to Guatemala?  and  Best Central America countries to visit .

Is Nicaragua safe?

We can't chat about travel without tipping our hats towards safety—and yes, questions linger around this topic when considering Nicaragua. But let me clear the air: while no place on Earth is immune from risks, smart travel safety decisions go a long way here. 

First off, there's an undeniable statement: Nicaragua is one of the safest Central American countries to visit . But this doesn't make it Japan or Switzerland —nop, we're not talking about one of the world's safest countries here.

If dipping toes into unknown waters makes you hesitant, don't worry. Even experienced travelers sometimes feel this way before starting a new adventure. But they take comfort in knowing that there are friendly faces and valuable advice from others who have already explored these routes.

The U.S. Department of State does advice travelers to exercise increased caution due primarily to crime; meanwhile, across the pond, the UK Foreign Office echoes this sentiment but also acknowledges areas of lower risk. While these official travel advisories are often a bit exaggerated to be covered against possible problems that travelers may have, is a reality that crime do exist in Nicaragua, but not as it's often portrayed in sensationalist media. 

Nicaraguan culture it’s inviting and sincere. Hospitality isn't just a courtesy here; it's woven into their way of life . Sure, there are spots where you'd want to keep your wits about you—big cities at night or isolated areas—but that's just common sense talking wherever on globe-trotting adventures take you.

In summary, Nicaragua is a country where certain security precautions need to be taken, especially for women traveling alone . However, this shouldn't be a reason not to visit the country if you truly want to. Nicaragua is not a place at war or overrun by drug cartels. Unfortunately, the news we usually receive from Central America can lead us to believe otherwise, but there's nothing better than talking to other travelers to get an insight about the true experience. 

Suggested reading:  Traveling to Central America: a guide to money-saving, safety and more  and  Nicaragua: language and other cultural facts .

Tips for staying safe in Nicaragua

Safety isn't just luck; it's also a skill—and I'm going to give you some tips for your days in Nicaragua. Whether you're marveling at Granada's colonial architecture or surfing in San Juan del Sur, knowing how to move confidently and safely can turn your trip from good to great.

General safety tips for tourists in Nicaragua

• Pack smart - dress down

In Nicaragua, blending in isn't just about cultural immersion—it’s also smart safety practice. Ditch flashy jewelry and designer gear for more modest attire. You'll not only fit in better with the local scene but also avoid drawing unwanted attention that screams 'tourist'.

Think lightweight clothing that keeps you cool under the Central American sun while respecting local norms—loose-fitting linen shirts and comfortable walking shoes are your best bet.

• Keep your belongings close at all times

Your backpack shouldn’t be an open invitation for pickpockets. Opt for bags with hidden compartments or locks, keeping them in front as you navigate crowded markets or bustling bus stations. If staying at hostels or guesthouses, use safes if available; they’re there for a reason.

A neat trick? Use carabiners to secure zippers together—it’s simple yet effective against opportunistic thieves looking for a quick grab-and-go.

• Cash is king but don't flash it all

Haggling over prices is part of the fun when shopping at Nicaraguan markets—but showing off a wad of cash isn’t wise. Keep small bills handy so you can pay without revealing your entire stash because let’s face it, nobody needs to see how thick your wallet is unless they're making it thinner.

Also consider dividing up money between different pockets—or even inside socks. This way if something does happen (knock on wood), they won't get everything.

• Situational awareness – stay sharp out there

You don't need eyes on the back of your head—but acting like you do could save some hassle down the road. Always scan around before taking out gadgets like smartphones or cameras which might attract undue interest especially if shiny new models stand out against rustic surroundings.

Common scams and how to avoid them

Friendly locals? Check. Stunning landscapes? Double-check. Pesky scammers… unfortunately also check—but only if you're not clued-up about their tricksy ways beforehand. 

• Street vendors and currency tricks

Browsing local markets is part of the fun, right? But watch out—some vendors have a knack for quick math that doesn't add up in your favor. Always double-check the change you receive; confusion during currency exchange is a classic trick. Brush up on current exchange rates before you go so no one pulls a fast one on your wallet.

Sometimes they'll insist their goods are 'almost free' or 'for good luck'. Trust me, there's no such thing as a free souvenir—well-intentioned gifts quickly turn into high-pressure sales tactics.

• Taxi turmoil

Hopping into cabs should come with its own set of flashing warning lights. Some taxi drivers love taking tourists ‘scenic routes’ (read: longer than necessary) to rack up fares. A little research will let you get smart about standard rates—TripAdvisor forums can be gold mines for this kind of info.

If your driver isn't using the meter or it looks tampered with—that's your cue to find another ride.

Get a local SIM card with internet data once you set foot in Nicaragua. The GPS is the modern-day compass of every traveler and the way to detect drivers turning a direct ride into pricey tours round-the-blocks more times than needed before reaching destination.

• Rental ruses

You rent a bike or surfboard only to later discover new damage claims popping up like unwelcome whack-a-moles at checkout time? That’s an oldie but baddie. Always take photos or videos as proof of pre-rental condition so nobody can pin existing dings on you.

• Friendly locals with unfriendly intentions

The vast majority of Nicaraguans are genuine gems who’ll enrich your travels—but keep an eye out for overly friendly approaches that seem…off. If someone seems excessively eager to help guide you around town or insists too strongly on showing you "the best spots," remember—it could lead not just to hidden treasures but potentially pick-pocketing hotspots too.

Remember these tips while soaking in all Nicaragua has got offer—the vibrant streetscapes won’t seem quite as daunting once you’ve got scam-spotting superpowers by your side.

Health concerns

Tropical countries, such as Nicaragua, boast fantastic lush nature, but their warm climate also brings certain diseases that one must be vigilant about.

Bring along insect repellent with DEET or picaridin because mosquitoes aren’t just annoying—they're also freeloaders carrying diseases like Zika and dengue fever.

If bugs do bite or other ailments arise, knowing where healthcare facilities are located will save you precious time. While major cities boast hospitals ready to assist tourists in need—the quality varies widely as you venture into more rural areas. It doesn’t hurt to remember that you shouldn't leave home without travel insurance .

Beyond germs and jabs though lies another wellness tip— hydration . With heat often cranking high under the Nicaraguan sun, staying hydrated isn't just good advice—it's crucial. But remember: tap water isn't safe so sticking to bottled or purified water is key.

Contact information for local authorities and emergency services

If you're wandering the streets of Managua or taking in some rays on San Juan del Sur's shoreline, having knowledge of how to receive aid during a crisis could be crucial. Here's a lifeline of info for those "just in case" moments.

For police assistance , dial 118 .

If you find yourself needing medical attention, 128 is the number to call for an ambulance .

And let’s not forget about fire emergencies ; reach out to firefighters by calling 115 .

Sometimes what you need is a touch of home when abroad—that’s where embassies and consulates step in. If things get tricky, contact them for assistance. Diplomatic missions in Nicaragua include embassies/consulates of the US, UK, Australia, Canada and Germany in Managua. 

Volunteering in Nicaragua

One extra tip to stay safe in Nicaragua, or anywhere else, is to travel slower , immersing yourself in local culture and meeting other travelers. That way, you'll get to understand the place a lot better and learn from other people's experiences, so it will be easier to get away from scams and potentially dangerous situations.

A great way to do that is by doing a volunteer program/ work exchange . The Worldpackers ' platform promotes that kind of experience, where you exchange a few hours of work a day in different local projects and receive accommodation and other perks, like meals and tours for your help.

Traveling this way, you'll have the chance to develop new skills (like learning Spanish ), meet like minded people that can become your travel companions for the rest of your trip, have a closer approach to the local culture, and also have a good social impact in the countries you visit. Is also a unique opportunity to try authentic every-day  Nicaraguan food !

There are many volunteering opportunities in Nicaragua , like these ones:

• Help with construction tasks to build an eco project  focused on natural building and permaculture in El Tránsito.
• Teach English or French to kids from a school in Managua .
• Connect with travelers from around the globe by becoming part of the staff of this hostel in beautiful Granada .
• Are you a yoga teacher? Are you looking for a unique experience in one of Nicaragua‘s most beautiful beaches? Then don't hesitate to apply for this position in Puerto Sandino !

Get inspired by the experiences of fellow travelers: " Volunteer teaching in Nicaragua with a Worldpackers social impact program " and  " Backpacking in Central America as a couple and doing a work exchange for the first time ".

So, is Nicaragua safe? The response isn't straightforward. It's about being prepared and prudent, but not over worried.

In short: plan well, stay aware, embrace adventure cautiously and talk to the locals for the best advice. Do this and Nicaragua could be one of your best trips yet!

If you like these tips, follow Worldpackers social media to keep up with the news: we are on Instagram and Tiktok !

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

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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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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Nicaragua travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: May 6, 2024 10:42 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 - 6 May, 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.

• PLACES TO GO
• THINGS TO DO
• TRAVEL TIPS
• LOCAL CULTURE
• Ometepe Island
• Corn Islands
• Emerald Coast
• Northern Nicaragua

• GETTING AROUND
• BORDER CROSSING

Is Nicaragua Safe to Visit? Top 5 Safety Tips From A Local

• Hidden Nicaragua
• July 11, 2022
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Nicaragua is a small but beautiful country in the heart of Central America. With rolling hills, pristine beaches, and exotic jungles, for many there is just one question keeping them from the land of lakes and volcanoes: Is Nicaragua safe?

It’s only practical to consider your safety before traveling to a different country. Especially if that country has a fraught political history. You should always do your research before going anywhere abroad for the first time.

If you want to know if Nicaragua is safe for tourists, you’ve come to the right place. 

Luis and I can offer safety advice from two perspectives: a Nicaraguan tour guide and a female tourist. We’ve been around the block and put together a list of our top 5 safety tips for a smooth trip.

So let’s break down if Nicaragua is safe for tourists, exactly when and where to exercise caution, and how to stay out of harm’s way on your next vacation.  

The Safest Country in Central America?

First, let’s look at the facts.

Nicaragua is consistently ranked among the safest countries in Central America. (Although if you asked born and raised Nicaraguan Luis his opinion, he’d tell you it’s by far number one.)

The homicide rate is the lowest in Central America : 5.7 per 100,000 inhabitants. That’s half of Costa Rica’s 11.5 and a mere fraction of Belize’s 29.0, Mexico’s 26.0, and El Salvador’s 17.6.

To put things in perspective, compare Nicaragua to the homicide rates in these popular U.S. cities : 17.0 in Washington, D.C., 20.0 in Milwaukee, 31.4 in Las Vegas, and 40.6 in New Orleans. 

Gun ownership, too, is the lowest in Central America . Despite the fact that it is technically legal to own a gun in Nicaragua, the country’s firearm rate is a lowly 5.2 per 100 civilians. By contrast, the U.S. hovers around 120.5. 

Nicaragua’s neighbors are more than double that figure, with every other Central American country clocking rates ranging from 10.0 to 14.1.

Nicaragua has also been remarkably successful in preventing gang proliferation.

Unlike the Northern Triangle of El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala, it isn’t afflicted by gang violence. In fact, international security experts consider Nicaragua to be an “ oasis of peace ” in Central America.

So if Nicaragua is considered one of the safest countries in Central America, then why does it have such a bad reputation?

Past Political Problems

Nicaragua made headlines back in 2018—and it wasn’t for its natural wonders .

Civil unrest hit the country hard as citizens reacted to political reforms. Protests broke out across Nicaragua, and tensions escalated as the government cracked down on demonstrators.

Though the conflict is long over, Nicaraguan tourism still feels its effects. 

Many people continue to associate Nicaragua with the revolution that ended over 30 years ago . The 2018 turbulence did little to counter this perception. 

But this period of Nicaragua’s history is not the normal travel experience today. 

Remember : Things can go wrong anywhere. No one can promise perfectly smooth sailing, especially when it comes to travel. We certainly aren’t. But what we can tell you is that Nicaragua is no more inherently dangerous than any other country: it has its good sections and its bad sections. 

Most problems are concentrated in big city Managua. But outside the capital, Nicaragua is about as safe for tourists as it gets.

Culture of Nicaragua

You’ll find that this small country is rural, religious, and friendly to visitors .

It isn’t densely populated—not even in the cities. More than half of Nicaragua’s land is conserved as a protected area . Most urban areas are relatively small and often historic.

More than 80% of Nicaraguans identify as Christian . Many national festivals are religious in nature.

There is a strong culture of “God, family, and hard work.” Family is everything here, and the elderly are met with great respect. Close friends and distant relatives are all seen as part of one big community.

Cooking, praying, and sharing time together after a long day of work is a normal aspect of the Nicaraguan lifestyle.

Visitors are greeted warmly here. Tourism is a major industry in Nicaragua, so foreigners are welcome and appreciated. Nicaraguans are social and hospitable people, always willing to lend a hand to neighbors and strangers alike. They take great pride in their country and happily share it.

But that doesn’t mean it’s all sunshine and rainbows. There’s crime all over the world, and Nicaragua is no exception.

So what exactly do you need to watch out for as a tourist in Nicaragua?

Crime in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is simultaneously one of the safest and poorest countries in Central America. And where there’s poverty, there are people looking for easy money. 

That means opportunistic crime is the most common safety issue here. 

Don’t be surprised if beggars approach you in cities like Granada. Just remember: being poor is not the same as being dangerous . While it can be irritating, there’s no need to feel threatened by people hawking goods or asking for spare change. 

HN Hint : If someone is persistent, the best thing you can do is either ignore them or politely decline by saying “No, gracias.” If you do want to help, it is better to buy them food than to offer money.

Luckily, most problems can be avoided by taking common sense safety measures . 

Here are our top 5 safety tips to help you have a stress-free trip to Nicaragua:

Staying Safe in Nicaragua: 5 Tips To Prevent Problems 

Avoid hitchhiking  .

It might be tempting to grab a quick lift from a stranger, but we advise against hitchhiking as a tourist in Nicaragua. Use authorized taxis, public buses, or private shuttles whenever possible. Even if you believe they have good intentions, if a stranger approaches you, be on the safe side and don’t accept rides or offers to share a cab.

HN Hint : To identify an official Nicaraguan taxi, look for a red border around the license plate and a clearly displayed number, taxi name, and company logo on the car (or tuk-tuk) door.

Most hotels in Nicaragua offer airport transfers, so there’s a good chance you will never even need to figure out transportation on your own. 

Use A Tour Guide in Managua

If you are interested in visiting Managua, we recommend hiring a tour guide for your visit . The capital is a major city in Nicaragua and where you are at the greatest risk of safety incidents like petty theft. The historic Managua Vieja neighborhood in particular should only be visited with a tour guide. There is an unusually high rate of violent crime in this section. 

It’s easy to accidentally end up on the wrong side of town when you are unfamiliar with an area, so sticking with a knowledgeable local is your best bet.

Stick Together After Dark

Night walks on the beach might sound romantic, but they’re a good way to get mugged if you’re alone. Particularly in party destination San Juan del Sur , stumbling home all by yourself after the bars is not a smart idea. Locals in this town will even warn tourists against strolling the shore by yourself after dark.

Now if you’re on a private resort property, this is a different story. But in general, it’s good practice not to walk on the outskirts of any foreign town alone at night.

Conceal Your Valuables

Pickpocketing is likely to be the biggest problem most travelers will ever face in Nicaragua. Be mindful of your belongings when you are in crowded areas, especially bus terminals and public markets. Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket, and try to avoid flashing expensive items like watches or jewelry. Keep your wits about you while snapping photos and never leave your bags unattended. 

You should always bring cash when traveling to Nicaragua, but make sure it’s not all in one place. Consider using a money belt to protect the cash you’re keeping on you—it’s a lot more comfortable than stuffing a wad of bills in your sock.

Leave Politics to the Pundits

Though unlikely, the number one tip we can give you to stay safe in Nicaragua is to steer clear of political protests . After the 2018 unrest, Nicaraguans have kept public criticisms of the government to a minimum. But on the off chance you do encounter political demonstrations in Nicaragua, do not engage and walk in the opposite direction. 

Actually, it’s wise to avoid public political commentary of any kind. Open displays of dissatisfaction are not as well-tolerated here as they are in countries like the United States. The last thing you want is to get in trouble with the law on your vacation. 

Nicaragua is a country made beautiful by its people. Its cities feel like small towns in the hands of warm and easygoing Nicaraguans. They take care of each other and are quick to help a stranger. There is a powerful sense of community that draws you in, even as an outsider. 

But like any place worth visiting, Nicaragua has its problems. Poverty and political trouble are sad realities that the nation and its tourism industry are forced to contend with. 

The good news is that Nicaragua’s struggles don’t need to hold you back from experiencing its rich culture and stunning natural vistas.

With basic situational awareness and common sense safety strategies, there’s no reason to fear.

If you follow our safety tips and keep an open mind, you’ll find that Nicaragua can be a truly incredible destination to explore.

Meet your Tour Guides

Hola! We’re Gail & Luis, a team of two with a deep love for Nicaragua. Luis, a professional tour guide, is the knowledgeable source behind the blog. Gail, an American writer, is the voice. 

We started this blog as a way to stay connected from afar and support Nicaragua in our own small way.

Today, our mission is to open hearts and minds to the wonders of Nicaragua and make it easier than ever to start planning your trip.

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Is Nicaragua Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Nicaragua : Safety by City

Nicaragua is a country located in Central America.

Apart from the natural beauties it boasts which make this country a paradise for nature lovers, it has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea, in the east, and the North Pacific Ocean, in the west for anyone looking to just relax by the crystal blue waters.

Nicaragua has the title of the largest country in Central America and the largest freshwater body in Central America, Lago de Nicaragua is located here.

And with nearly one-quarter of the nation’s population living in the Nicaraguan capital Managua, it is the second metropolitan area in Central America.

Out of many reasons the tourists come and visit this country, the biggest one is love for nature, and this country offers an abundance of it.

There are the impressive colonial cities of Granada and Leon, the island of Ometepe and the Mombacho volcano for hiking and trekking, the coffee farm region of Jinotega and Matagalpa in the mountainous regions, while the gorgeous surf beaches of the Pacific Coast go without saying.

The Rio San Juan area, which is the largest rainforest north of the Amazon, is rapidly becoming a largely popular eco-tourist destination, and its biodiversity is attracting nature lovers all around the world at the speed of light.

• Warnings & Dangers in Nicaragua

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Nicaragua is relatively safe to visit, but you should keep in mind that petty theft, as well as violent crimes, are extremely common here, so all precaution measures should be taken.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Taking public transport at night is highly advised against, due to the presence of criminals, both on public transport and on the roadways. Calling a taxi, or sharing a taxi with another person is far safer and common.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

There is an extreme threat to petty crime. Pickpockets operate mainly in the major cities of Nicaragua. You should be extremely careful, especially in markets. Take as little as possible with you and never carry your money in a purse or a back pocket.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

As far as natural disasters go, there are a couple of them hitting Nicaragua, such as earthquakes that can happen at any time. Then there is the hurricane season that lasts from June to November and the rainy season that often leads to floods. There are some active volcanoes in Nicaragua, the most dangerous one being San Cristobal which has been active since December 2012.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

There have been reports of unauthorized taxis kidnapping people for ransom. Muggings, robberies, and rapes are also common. Be extremely careful.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Nicaragua's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Like in every country taxi drivers might try to overcharge you. Apart from that, double check your change and negotiate everything in advance. Tourists are strongly encouraged not to use public ATMs, or if they do, not to flash their credit cards publicly. There have been many reports of credit card fraud in Nicaragua, as well as reports of extortion calls occurring.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women traveling solo are advised to be careful around men, even in front of employees at hotels, shops, and men providing any kind of tourist services. Many women have been sexually assaulted at the beaches of Nicaragua, so they are strongly advised not to walk alone both during day and night. Women should be prepared for rude comments by men when walking alone on the streets of Nicaragua.

• So... How Safe Is Nicaragua Really?

Though Nicaragua’s lowered crime rate is talked about in the recent years, in reality, it still has some very dangerous neighborhood, especially in the north where, in 2008, gang violence began occurring, originating from Honduras and El Salvador.

However, the Nicaraguan police have been doing their job extremely well, regularly repressing organized crime and catching gang members.

Tourists are strongly advised against traveling alone at night.

It is always better to pay for a taxi instead of walking around scarcely lit or abandoned areas.

Managua is especially dangerous after dark, so remain vigilant.

Attacks and murders with a goal of robbing you happen here even during broad daylight and in front of witnesses, particularly in Rivas and Managua.

The best advice for tourists would be to travel accompanied by someone who knows the area as well as the language.

There are many local organizations that offer translator or guide services.

Women are advised to be especially cautious.

Verbal sexual harassment of women, both foreign and local, is constant, and if you are traveling solo, you can expect cat-calling to be common even for Latin American standards.

Men and boys of all ages tend to make kissing noises, whistle and shout rude comments with a sexual connotation.

• How Does Nicaragua Compare?
• Useful Information

Most nationals do not need a visa for any stays in Nicaragua shorter than 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your return date. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Nicaraguan Cordoba is the official currency in Nicaragua, while US dollars are the alternative currency. ATMs are widespread throughout major cities but if you're going to rural regions, make sure you bring some cash. Credit cards are mostly accepted.

The climate in Nicaragua can be described as tropical. Just like in most Central American countries, there is the dry season and the wet season. The dry season lasts from January to June, while the wet season lasts from May to October, during which period the weather is a bit cooler.

Augusto C. Sandino International Airport is the main joint civil-military public international airport in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua. It is located in the City's 6th ward, locally referred to as Distrito 6.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Nicaragua, since it covers not only the costs medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Nicaragua Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Nicaragua - Safety by City

Explore nicaragua.

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• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Nicaragua
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• Where to Next?

26 Reviews on Nicaragua

While not afraid for my person, theft is high..

Having personally been robbed while sleeping in a cabaña on Little Corn Island, I can concur with your assessment of the theft risk as high. Follow-up by the police was nonexistent, despite the fact that I filled out all the paperwork, the island is small, the thefts are recurring, locals believe they know who the thieves are, and the stolen camera was relatively unique.

Nicaragua it is a dangerous place , the police they kill people very easy . They took bribe every time on the street . Robery are around the corner s as nd police do nothing armed people are everywhere to still money or properties , conclusión , Nicaragua is not safe at all

A place everyone should visit

Nicaragua is a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. It’s so filled with beautiful places and good people. Of course there are dangers but if you do your research and take care, everything will be fine.

Beautiful but unsafe

Unfortunately, someone will try to steal something from you while you’re there. It’s just that kind of place. And it’s a real shame because the place is absolutely beautiful. Not a place to go to alone, with friends it can be a great experience.

Safe for us. We love the people!

We love Nicaragua and the people! We’ve been to Nicaragua six times for a month each time.

Granada has been our main city to stay when in the country but we visit other places too such as San Juan del Sur, Jinortega, Leon, Estili and other places too. Granada is a beautiful colonial city with so much character.

Many businesses and restaurants speak English. The people seem very spiritual and involved in their churches (mostly Catholic) and seem happy and loving.

People are poor and do beg but more commonly try to sell things. We’ve had no problems with crime when we are out and about during the day and early evening.

We don’t go out in unpopulated areas or dark streets at night but we don’t do that in our own country (the United States) either.

I absolutely love this country!

A friend of mine was robbed and murdered in Nicaragua so safe? Ehh not so sure

4 stars robbed and murdered ?

Then your friend went looking for it.

If that’s the case, why would you rate the safety 4 stars?

I wonder what it would take to get a 3 star rating from you. I would hate to find out

Bullshit..live here and have my residency. As for the people who “say” they have had problems. Then you have looked for them. beautiful people and a beautiful country. Live here and see.

Do you still live there? Is there a way to arrange transport and should we exchange money before we go and how much should I travel with ?

Calm and hospitable

The country’s residents are friendly and welcoming. Isla Ometepe in particular is a space where violent crime is practically unheard of. It’s policed as a community and people do not tolerate those who look to harm others. Petty theft is rising as unemployment and poverty does. The country is seeing it’s second economic crisis in 2 years. I feel safer here than in European cities.

Very nice living here

Im koos dutch and living on isla de ometepe my experience are nice people very safe and very beautifal im also living in costarica but here much tranquil

Nicaragua is amazing

I’ll be moving there soon! Paying for a piece of land currently 🙂 Ometepe is where my heart is. It is paradise.

Safer than most USA cities!

I’ve lived in Managua, Jinotepe and Rivas administrative districts for over 15 years. I am dumbfounded by the fear-inciting comments about danger and crime. What are these people talking about? In all the years I’ve had a minor car burglary. Never felt threatened or in danger, the contrary. People here are very ethical and supportive. They will run to help if they can whatever the problem … flat tire? lost? need translation? In a car accident? I drive unafraid over 300 KM every week, both during the day and night, in cities and rural areas. I’ve picked up hitch hiking Nica and gringo hitchhikers, both single women and men who travel unafraid. This is a very tranquil and proud country under a lot of pressure right now.

Safe is as Safe does! Be Safe!

I have lived in Nicaragua full time for 15 years and never had a safety issue.. yes I have heard of petty theft etc which I would consider low on a per capita relative to most of the World.

We felt safe in the South

Please put dates on the user comments so that we can judge when they were and how they affect us today.

We were there in 2014 and 2016, staying in the southern part of Nicaragua, and felt extremely safe.

EXCELLENT point. We lived there from 2013 through 2014 and loved it and have since been back three times.

Safe and free

My wife and I have been traveling here for 12 years and now have been living here permanently for the last year. We absolutely love the country and the people. For safety, I would rate the country as a whole more safe than a major US city but probably less than small town USA. It is a beautiful country and we feel safe and free here.

Safe and Free??????

Thank you for the comment! My husband and I along with our three teenage boys are traveling to Nicaragua in eight days. We’re very excited to see your beautiful Country you now call home! Some of our friends bought houses in Nicaragua and absolutely love it!

My wife and I spent 6 weeks in early 2020 in an apartment 5 minutes from the beach in San Juan del Sur. Overlooking the ocean with amazing daily sunsets, it was magical. Lovely people and is generally a younger demographic. Their economy is challenged by an uncertain political situation. Never felt in danger anywhere in the Rivas (province) area and cannot speak for other parts of the country. Like anywhere else there is no need to go out looking for trouble by treating people like they work for you. Be nice and friendly and a smile from you will go a long way. People are generally helpful and despite speaking a very limited amount of Spanish most were keen to be helpful and even patient. It’s a rustic environment with lots of time spent outside from November to April. Lots of beeches within the area and small trucks drive back and forth to various beeches for about $5 each way per person.

Not great for people who have only been to resorts and prefer to be served on. That’s also available and sold as an adventure tour ($$$$ daily) and which might be perfect for some. If you’re looking for luxury it is available but planning ahead is crucial and with a good outfit. a great spot to spend some time with lovely friendly people.

This beautiful country is meant to be explored

I don’t know exactly what the situation is in all of the cities in Nicaragua. I know people that have visited this country and think it’s heaven on earth. They didn’t have any bad experiences, none at all. And I think everyone that has been here can recognize the absolute beauty of this place. It’s pretty surreal. Are there dangerous places in the country? Yes there are. There are thefts occurring almost daily even in the daytime. Like always, it’s best to keep a close eye on your belongings, all of them whether it’s your phone or wallet or handbag and so on.

I recommend visiting the Islets of Granada (there are 365 of them). Some of them are deserted but there are some that have small development on them, specifically ecolodges. It’s interesting to see if you’re into this. The Masaya Volcano is a nice place to visit from some breathtaking views. You can get pretty close to this active volcano and you will see the lava up close and personal.

Have you ever done volcano surfing? Yes, it’s actually a thing, believe it or not. I loved it! Going to Cerro Negro will give you the chance to do just that: ride on a wooden surboard on the side of a volcano. You will have a boiler suit and goggles for protection. You will easily reach speeds of 60 miles per hour so this is not for everyone. Please know that it will take around 30-40 minutes to get on top of the volcano and only then you can go down.

If you want to see nature in (almost) it’s rawest form then head to Mombacho Volcano Nature Preserve. 2500 acres of forest, farms, coffee plantations, flora (more than 800 plants), birds, monkeys. You’ll use the hiking trails to experience all of this so be ready with water, snacks and plenty of energy.

There’s also the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve which is amazing! It’s huge, being the second in the world (size wise) after the huge Amazon rainforest from Brazil.

Ometepe is heaven on earth. Absolutely gorgeous. The people and the atmosphere. Im american and glad i discovered this paradise!

Way dangerous

Regardless of the 4 and 5 stars given just remember some of us lived in Nicaragua. After my 3rd year living in Nicaragua in a supposed good neighborhood I was robbed at gunpoint twice and my apartment vandalized. Always remember MS-13 is alive and well throughout Nicaragua. I lived in Matagalpa the coffee region 3 years. Little did I realize anywhere in Northern Nicaragua is where ms-13 enters through Honduras. Then they work their way to Leon, Grenada then Managua.All united states airlines have permanently stopped service to Nicaragua as of 2018 Aeromexico and Copa airlines has too.The only flights into Managua are from Avianca airlines. Layover time is normally 3 to 5 hours in El Salvador and the flights arrive normally between 9:30 pm to 10:30 pm. There’s been abductions inside of the airport in San Salvador security looks the other way. Nowhere in Central America is safe just how it is. Nowhere is safe anywhere in South America either. So I’m not singelinig,out just Nicaragua. But I’ve stayed throughout Central and South America over the years. Best advice don’t put yourself in danger. Sure Central and South America are beautiful but underneath it all lurking in the shadows it’s all extremely dangerous.

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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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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Is Nicaragua Safe to Visit? Ultimate Safety Guide

Destinations.

Nicaragua’s diverse culture, lush scenery, and fascinating history invite those seeking an off-the-beaten-path trip. However, when planning a trip to this Central American jewel , safety considerations are generally a top priority. So, is Nicaragua Safe?

In this post, we’ll look into the complexities of safety in Nicaragua, providing you with all the facts you need to make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

Is Nicaragua Safe?

The short answer is, yes, Nicaragua is safe to visit but the answer is not that simple. Like many other countries of the region, Nicaragua is not clear on challenges and issues like petty crimes.

So, the answer depends on many factors, like the location, timing, and how you behave.

This country is still a hidden gem, unspoiled by mass tourists. It boasts a diversified scenery with volcanoes, lakes, islands, beaches, rainforests, and more. You can do several outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, or scuba diving or simply rest in a hammock and enjoy the scenery.

Nicaragua has a diverse history and culture that encompasses indigenous, colonial, and revolutionary influences. You can explore the colonial cities of Granada and Leon , visit Managua’s museums and monuments, and learn about local traditions and crafts in rural areas.

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Safety Tips for Travelers

Choose your destinations wisely.

Certain cities are safer than others. Consider these options:

• Granada : A colonial gem with colorful streets, Granada offers a safe and charming experience.
• Leon : Known for its revolutionary history and vibrant arts scene, Leon is generally safe for tourists.
• San Juan del Sur : A beach town with a laid-back vibe, San Juan del Sur is a favorite among travelers.

Be Street Smart

• Avoid Demonstrations : Political protests can escalate quickly. Steer clear of demonstrations and large gatherings.
• Night Safety : Arrange for taxis through your hotel rather than walking alone at night.

Health and Infrastructure

• Healthcare : Nicaragua’s healthcare system is limited. Ensure you have travel insurance and access to medical facilities.
• Infrastructure : Some areas lack proper infrastructure. Be prepared for occasional challenges.

What are the main safety concerns for travelers?

Nicaragua is typically a safe place to visi t, although it is not free of challenges. Some of the challenges you may experience include:

Nicaragua has a lower crime rate than other countries in the region, although petty theft, robbery, and fraud are nonetheless frequent, particularly in tourist regions and major cities.

You should always be cautious with your valuables, avoid walking alone at night, and choose reliable transportation and lodging options.

Political instability

Nicaragua has been experiencing a political crisis since 2018, when anti-government protests turned violent, resulting in hundreds of deaths and injuries.

The situation has stabilized since then, although there are still periodic conflicts and demonstrations that may disrupt your travel plans.

You should constantly verify the current situation before traveling, avoid any political meetings or demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities and your embassy.

Natural disasters

Nicaragua is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, storms, floods, and landslides, which can all cause damage and interruption to infrastructure and services.

You should always be prepared for emergencies, carry travel insurance that covers them, and follow the directions of local authorities and tour operators in the event of a crisis.

Health risks

Just like most of the neighboring countries, Nicaragua’s tropical climate can expose you to a variety of diseases and infections, including malaria, dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and others.

Before you leave, talk to your doctor about getting the proper vaccines and prescriptions and taking care to avoid mosquito bites and contaminated food and drink.

You should also be aware that Nicaragua’s healthcare system is substandard, and you may have trouble receiving medical treatments, particularly in isolated locations.

Safety Tips by Region

Nicaragua is organized into 15 departments, each with unique charms and challenges. Here are some safety precautions for some of the most popular destinations to visit:

Nicaragua’s capital and largest city, Managua , serves as the primary entry point for the majority of visitors. It boasts a modern and bustling atmosphere, with skyscrapers, stores, restaurants, pubs, and clubs.

It also boasts cultural and historical attractions , like the National Palace, the Old Cathedral, Revolution Square, and the Tiscapa Lagoon.

However, Managua is one of Nicaragua’s most dangerous and challenging cities, with high rates of crime, poverty, and pollution.

You should be very careful when visiting Managua, and follow these tips:

• Avoid the city center at night, as it is poorly lit and deserted, and attracts criminals and gangs.
• Avoid the neighborhoods of Acahualinca, Monseñor Lezcano, and Mercado Oriental, as they are known for being violent and unsafe.

Granada is one of Nicaragua’s oldest and most attractive cities, and it’s a favorite destination for tourists looking to experience the country’s colonial beauty and culture.

It boasts colorful and magnificent buildings, including churches, museums, markets, and plazas. It also offers a busy and energetic atmosphere that includes cafes, restaurants, bars, and festivals.

Granada is also an excellent location for visiting local sights such as the Masaya Volcano, the Mombacho Volcano, the Apoyo Lagoon, and the Granada Islands.

Granada is generally a safe and friendly city, but you should still take some precautions, such as:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially on the outskirts of the city, where there are fewer people and lights.
• You should also avoid the areas near the lake, the Cementerio Municipal, and the bus station, as they are known for being unsafe and frequented by criminals.

Leon is another colonial city in Nicaragua , having served as the country’s former capital. It has a rich and stormy history, having served as the epicenter of the Sandinista movement and resistance to Somoza’s government.

It has several cultural and historical attractions you can visit , including the Cathedral of Leon, Central America’s largest, the Museum of the Revolution, the Museum of Art, and the birthplace of Ruben Dario, a notable poet.

It is also a popular destination for adventurers, as it is adjacent to the Cerro Negro Volcano , where you can attempt volcano boarding, a unique and adventurous activity.

Leon is a relatively safe and welcoming city, but you should still be careful, and follow these tips:

• It’s best to avoid walking alone at night, particularly on the outskirts of the city where there are fewer people and lights.
• Avoid the areas near the market, the bus station, and the cemetery since they are considered unsafe and attract criminals.
• Avoid the Barrio Subtiava, a poor and marginalized neighborhood that is known for its high crime rate and social problems

Ometepe Island

Ometepe Island is a natural wonder in Nicaragua, constructed by two volcanoes that rise from Lake Nicaragua . It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a haven for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.

It offers numerous attractions , including the Concepcion and Maderas volcanoes, the Ojo de Agua natural spring, the Charco Verde lagoon, the San Ramon waterfall, and pre-Columbian petroglyphs.

It also features a tranquil and rural ambiance, with farms, villages, and nice residents.

Ometepe Island is a safe and relaxing place to visit, but you should still be aware of some potential risks, such as:

Volcanic activity: The Concepcion volcano is active, and may erupt at any time, causing ash, smoke, and lava flows. You should always check the volcanic alert level before you go, and follow the instructions of the local authorities and your tour guide in case of an eruption.

Transportation: Getting to Ometepe Island can be a bit challenging as the only transportation options available are ferries or boats, which can get quite crowded, uncomfortable, and unreliable at times.

It’s a good idea to book your tickets ahead of time and make sure to check the weather and schedule before heading out. Also, anticipate delays or cancellations and have a backup plan ready .

Animals and insects: Ometepe Island boasts a wide variety of wildlife, but some animals and insects can be dangerous or bothersome. Avoid contact with snakes, spiders, scorpions, bats, monkeys, and dogs to prevent bites, scratches, and potential transmission of diseases or infections.

It’s important to shield yourself from mosquitoes, flies, and sandflies since they can transmit diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika, and others.

Consider using insect repellent, covering up with long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

Water and food: Ometepe Island’s water supply is limited and of poor quality. It’s advisable not to consume or use tap water for brushing teeth, as it could lead to health issues like diarrhea and vomiting.

It’s best to stick to bottled or purified water and steer clear of ice cubes, juices, or salads. It’s important to watch what you eat and stick to clean and trustworthy establishments.

Essential Travel Resources

❗Don’t forget travel insurance

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🏡Where to Stay – Here are Suggestions

This is my favorite place to look for accommodations , it offers different types, a ton of locations, and good price options.

🗺️Get Around Hassle-Free

This one is the perfect option to look for different transportation options between cities, from flights, buses, and taxis to minivans and more.

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Whenever I need to fly, I head to this website for low-cost flights.

San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur is a beach hamlet in southern Nicaragua that attracts surfers, travelers, and partygoers. It boasts a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, with a large and sandy beach, a vibrant and colorful town center, and various bars, restaurants, and clubs.

It also contains several natural and cultural attractions , including the Christ of Mercy statue, the La Flor Wildlife Refuge, and the surrounding beaches of Maderas, Marsella, and Hermosa.

San Juan del Sur is a safe and enjoyable place to visit, but you should still be mindful of some possible issues, such as:

Crime: San Juan del Sur can be quite busy with tourists, which unfortunately may also draw in some individuals looking to take advantage of travelers.

Drugs and alcohol: San Juan del Sur is famous for its vibrant nightlife and party atmosphere, where you might come across individuals engaging in drug and alcohol use.

Make sure to be responsible and mindful of your consumption, and steer clear of illegal or unfamiliar substances that could be harmful or addictive.

It’s important to know the local laws and penalties related to drugs and alcohol to steer clear of any issues with law enforcement or the community.

Sun and heat: San Juan del Sur typically experiences hot and sunny weather, so it’s important to be mindful of high temperatures and UV rays to avoid sunburn, dehydration, or heatstroke.

It’s a good idea to wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and light and breathable clothes, and stay hydrated.

Corn Islands

The Corn Islands are two small islands in the Caribbean Sea, located off the coast of Nicaragua. They are a tropical paradise, complete with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and palm palms.

They are ideal for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kayaking.

The islands also have a distinct and diversified culture, shaped by indigenous, African, and British settlers.

The Corn Islands are a safe and tranquil place to visit, but you should still pay attention to some possible challenges, such as:

Accommodation: The Corn Islands offer a variety of places to stay, including upscale resorts and affordable hostels.

Availability might be limited, especially during peak seasons or holidays, so, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation ahead of time and be sure to review the ratings and feedback of the places you plan to stay at.

Language and culture: The Corn Islands have a unique language and culture compared to the rest of Nicaragua, while English is the main language, many residents speak English Creole, which is a blend of English, Spanish, and African languages.

It’s important to show respect for the local culture and customs by avoiding offensive or insensitive comments or gestures. Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting churches or other sacred places.

It’s best to steer clear of snapping pictures of individuals without their consent, particularly children, as it could come off as impolite or questionable.

Safety Tips by Activity

Nicaragua is an excellent choice for those who love adventure, while there’s a wide range of thrilling activities to experience, the most popular are those and you’ll probably be doing one, if not all, of these.

Keep in mind that some of these activities can come with risks and challenges, so it’s good to be ready for them.

Check out these safety tips for popular activities in Nicaragua:

Volcano Hiking

Nicaragua boasts over 20 volcanoes , with some being active, providing breathtaking views and experiences. You have the option to hike to the crater, or the summit of various volcanoes like Masaya, Mombacho, Concepcion, Telica, or Cerro Negro.

Volcano hiking can be challenging, so it’s important to keep these tips in mind:

• Opt for a reliable and seasoned tour operator or guide familiar with the route, conditions, and safety precautions.
• Make sure to check the weather and volcanic alert level before heading out, and it’s best to avoid hiking in case of rain, fog, wind, or an eruption.
• Make sure to wear suitable and comfy attire, like hiking boots, long pants, a jacket, a hat, and gloves. Don’t forget to pack a backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
• Get ready for the high altitude, hot weather, smoky conditions, and ash. Make sure to stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and steer clear of touching or breathing in the volcanic materials.

Nicaragua is a fantastic destination for surfers with its reliable waves, balmy water, and peaceful beaches. There are plenty of spots along the Pacific coast where you can catch some waves, like San Juan del Sur, Popoyo, Maderas, or Las Peñitas.

You can also try surf schools, camps, and rentals to help you learn or improve your skills.

Surfing comes with its risks, so it’s important to keep these tips in mind:

• Find a spot that matches your skill level and is safe, steering clear of areas that are too shallow, rocky, or crowded.
• Make sure to also keep an eye on the tide, swell, wind, and current before heading out, and steer clear of surfing in unfavorable conditions or after dark.
• Make sure to choose a surf instructor or guide who is reputable experienced, and familiar with the area, conditions, and safety rules.
• Make sure to wear the right clothes and gear for your activity, like a wetsuit, and rash guard.
• Make sure to choose a surfboard that suits your size and preferences, and inspect it for any signs of damage or flaws.
• Respect the local surf culture and etiquette by avoiding dropping in, snaking, or paddling in front of other surfers.
• Avoid surfing in areas designated for locals, fishermen, or swimmers.

Scuba Diving

Nicaragua offers some of the best scuba diving locations in Central America , particularly along the Caribbean coast and the Corn Islands .

Feel free to check out the coral reefs, shipwrecks, caves, and amazing marine life, and try the scuba diving schools, centers, and tours.

Scuba diving can be a challenging and risky activity, so it’s important to keep these tips in mind:

• Choose a reputable and experienced scuba diving operator or instructor, who knows the area, the conditions, and the safety procedures.
• Check the weather and the water conditions before you go, and avoid diving if there is rain, storm, wind, or strong current.
• Make sure to wear the right clothes and gear for your dive, including a wetsuit, mask, snorkel, regulator, buoyancy control device, and dive computer.
• Make sure to choose a scuba tank that matches your size and capacity, and inspect it for any signs of damage or leaks.
• Get ready for the pressure, depth, and decompression, which could lead to issues like ear pain.
• Make sure to stick to the dive plan, depth limit, and no-decompression limit, and ascend gradually and securely.

Is Nicaragua safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Nicaragua is moderately safe for solo female travelers if you are informed, prepared, and cautious.

Visiting Nicaragua requires some planning and preparation. Make sure to complete your homework, organize your schedule, and remember to prioritize safety.

Nicaragua is a beautiful and diverse country that has a lot to offer to solo female travelers. Just remember to be smart, alert, and respectful, and you’ll be fine.

Is Nicaragua safe for American tourists?

Yes, most American tourists feel safe in Nicaragua but the answer is not that simple, since there are some risks and challenges that you should be aware of before you plan your trip. Also, you need to use your common sense and avoid any issues.

The U.S. Department of State suggests that American citizens should think twice about traveling to Nicaragua because of civil unrest, crime, limited healthcare availability, and arbitrary enforcement of laws.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t still have a good time in Nicaragua. Several travelers have shared positive feedback about their stay, mentioning no significant problems.

Just remember, being well-informed, prepared, and cautious is crucial.

Which places should I avoid while visiting Nicaragua?

The places you should avoid are those that are crowded or well-known for a high-rate of crimes. Here are some of the most dangerous cities and areas in Nicaragua that you should steer clear of.

Tipitapa: This city located on the eastern coast of Lake Xolotlan has a reputation for its high crime rate and frequent gang violence.

This place is not very welcoming to tourists, and there have been incidents of robberies, assaults, and kidnappings. When visiting Tipitapa, make sure to be cautious and avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar places.

Zona Rosa: This area in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, is well-known for its high levels of poverty and drug-related activities.

This location attracts criminals who target both tourists and locals. If someone offers you drugs, prostitutes, or other illegal services, just ignore them. You might find yourself in a risky situation or even worse.

Peñas Blancas: This town on the border with Costa Rica is a significant hub for illegal immigrants, smugglers, and human traffickers.

It’s a common target for armed groups and paramilitary forces that frequently engage in conflicts with the authorities.

There is a risk of encountering harassment, extortion, or violence if attempting to cross the border in this area. Consider using an alternative entry point or steering clear of the border entirely.

Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission for any purchases made through the links. Your trust is important to us, and we ensure that all products or services we recommend meet or exceed our editorial standards .

Last Updated on February 28, 2024

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Is Nicaragua Safe to Visit? 

Considering a trip to Nicaragua?

Its beauty and charm might be calling you, but you’re likely wondering about its safety. Nicaragua boasts gorgeous beaches, breathtaking rainforests, and a deep-rooted history.

However, safety concerns might give some travelers pause.

In this article, we delve into Nicaragua’s safety landscape, pinpoint potential issues, and offer guidance for a worry-free journey.

A Closer Look at Nicaragua

Nicaragua is celebrated for its scenic beauty, rich cultural tapestry, and amiable populace.

As Central America’s most expansive nation, it’s nestled between Honduras in the north and Costa Rica in the south.

About 6.5 million people call Nicaragua home, with the bustling city of Managua as its capital.

Visitors are drawn to its pristine beaches, verdant rainforests, and dynamic volcanoes.

Lake Nicaragua, Central America’s largest lake, is another gem. The nation’s culture, a unique mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African heritages, shines through in its arts, music, and gastronomy.

Nicaragua experiences a tropical climate. Its dry season stretches from November to April, providing ideal weather conditions for visitors.

Spanish is its official language, but English is also prevalent, especially in tourist hotspots. While the Nicaraguan córdoba is the standard currency, US dollars are easily accepted in most tourist regions.

Recent years saw some political turbulence in Nicaragua. Nonetheless, by observing fundamental safety guidelines such as being situationally aware, steering clear of dimly lit areas at night, and not flaunting wealth, you can relish all that Nicaragua offers in a safe manner.

Safety Overview

Nicaragua has grappled with its fair share of challenges, including political tensions, economic hiccups, and natural calamities.

Yet, the tide seems to be turning with the government actively addressing these matters.

The U.S. Department of State has placed Nicaragua under a Level 3 Travel Advisory , urging travelers to reconsider their plans owing to constrained healthcare services and unpredictable law enforcement.

A noteworthy concern is the potential unjust detainment of U.S. nationals by Nicaraguan authorities. It’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with crime, encompassing severe offenses such as armed theft and sexual assault.

Though there has been a dip in the crime rates in Nicaragua, it’s always wise to be vigilant. Here are some strategies for a secure Nicaraguan adventure:

• Refrain from venturing out alone after dark, particularly in dimly lit areas.
• Secure your valuables, ensuring items like passports remain concealed.
• Exercise caution on public transport, where incidents of theft or assault may occur.
• Stay sharp in crowded zones to thwart pickpockets or minor crimes.
• Regularly check local news and official bulletins for up-to-date safety information.

In conclusion, with judicious planning and awareness, Nicaragua can be a safe and rewarding travel destination.

Understanding Travel Advisories for Nicaragua

Before jetting off to Nicaragua, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State and other relevant authorities.

These advisories grant travelers a lens into the potential hazards and considerations for their journey.

Current Advisory Status

As of October 1, 2023, Nicaragua falls under a Level 3 Travel Advisory from the U.S. Department of State.

This suggests that travelers should rethink their visit due to concerns like limited healthcare access and unpredictable law enforcement.

The advisory also underscores the risks associated with crime and unwarranted detentions.

However, it’s pivotal to realize that these advisories aren’t discouragements but informational tools. They assist travelers in making informed choices about their trips. Always check advisories from your own nation or relevant bodies before planning your Nicaraguan adventure.

Common Safety Considerations in Nicaragua

While Nicaragua beckons many with its allure, it’s essential to be cognizant of potential risks.

• Keeping valuables concealed and stowed in secure places.
• Limiting the cash you carry.
• Remaining vigilant and observing your surroundings.
• Always utilize pedestrian crossings.
• Being wary while using public transportation.
• Donning a helmet if you opt for bikes or motorcycles.
• Being versed with your accommodation’s emergency protocols.
• Stocking essential supplies.
• Keeping an eye on local news for any updates.

Health Concerns When Traveling to Nicaragua

Nicaragua presents certain health challenges that travelers should be aware of.

• Wearing protective clothing.
• Using repellents.
• Opting for accommodations with screens or air-conditioning.
• Drink only bottled or treated water.
• Steer clear of undercooked foods and unwashed produce.
• Street foods might be tempting but might lack hygienic preparation.
• Ensure you have travel health insurance.
• Always have essential medications on hand.
• Private healthcare facilities might demand upfront payment, so be prepared.

Staying Safe in Nicaraguan Transportation

In Nicaragua, a myriad of transportation options beckon — from buses and taxis to rental cars.

However, understanding the nuances of each can make a difference in your safety. Here’s a quick guide:

• Keep valuables close and stay alert, particularly during nighttime rides.
• Opt for seats away from the front, as these are often prime targets for opportunists.
• Always choose licensed taxis.
• Agree on the fare upfront.
• Rather than hailing one from the streets, book through a reputed company or seek your hotel’s help.
• Adopt a defensive driving approach.
• Familiarize yourself with road conditions.
• Refrain from nighttime driving and opt for well-lit parking.
• Thoroughly inspect the car before leaving the rental agency.

By staying vigilant and well-informed, transportation in Nicaragua can be both safe and convenient.

Navigating Natural Disasters in Nicaragua

Nicaragua, being seismically active and situated in the hurricane belt, is susceptible to natural disasters ranging from earthquakes to hurricanes.

• Drop immediately to the ground.
• Seek shelter under durable furniture or against an interior wall.
• Stay put until the tremors cease.
• Remain indoors, steering clear of windows.
• In flood-prone zones, relocate to elevated areas.
• Stay updated with local radio or TV broadcasts.
• Always heed local authorities’ advice.
• Ensure its safety with local authorities.
• Be aware of associated hazards like ash falls or mudflows (lahars).

A little preparedness and alertness can ensure your safety amidst Nicaragua’s natural wonders.

Nicaraguan Culture and Traditions

Nicaragua, with its rich tapestry of traditions, promises a warm and hospitable experience for visitors. To blend in and respect the local ethos:

• Greetings : A handshake or a hug is customary. In formal settings, addressing someone as “Señor” or “Señora”, followed by their surname, is appreciated.
• Dress Code : Nicaragua’s conservative fabric dictates modest dressing, especially in religious places. Aim to cover your shoulders and knees.
• Language : Although Spanish dominates, a smattering of English might be encountered. However, learning basic Spanish phrases can endear you to locals.
• Cuisine : Freshness and bold flavors characterize Nicaraguan dishes. Relishing meals with company and toasting before a drink are local customs.
• Religion : With Catholicism being predominant, visitors should remain considerate of religious customs and sites.

Safe Travel Tips for Nicaragua

Heading to Nicaragua soon? It’s crucial to prioritize safety to make the most of your journey. Here are some essential safety guidelines to follow:

• Research Ahead of Time : Prior to your trip, acquaint yourself with the regions you’ll visit. Stay informed about travel advisories or safety alerts from your home government or global entities. Such insights will guide your choices on destinations and activities.
• Stay Alert : When exploring, always be observant of your environment. Spotting unusual activities or individuals can be key. Refrain from venturing out alone after dark, and choose busy, well-lit areas for your strolls.
• Exercise Common Sense : Your safety often hinges on simple, prudent actions. Avoid displaying high-end accessories or tech gear openly. Store your valuables securely. And when offered beverages, especially from unknown individuals, be watchful.
• Choose Reliable Transportation : In Nicaragua, always opt for well-regarded transportation services. Bypass unlicensed taxis or buses and firmly decline travel offers from unfamiliar people.
• Acquaint Yourself with Basic Spanish : Mastery of Spanish isn’t mandatory, but understanding rudimentary phrases will ease your interactions with locals. In emergencies, this can be particularly beneficial.

By adhering to these suggestions, you’re setting the stage for a memorable and secure Nicaraguan experience.

Nicaragua, like any other destination, presents its unique safety dynamics.

But with informed precautions, a fulfilling, risk-minimized visit is achievable.

Related: When is the Worst Time to Visit Israel?

Before setting foot in Nicaragua, gauge the prevalent security conditions and arm yourself with measures to safeguard your well-being.

This might mean circumventing specific locales or neighborhoods, honing your situational awareness, or being extra careful with personal items.

Worth noting, that Nicaragua boasts a relatively lower crime rate compared to several of its neighbors. Most tourists enjoy an incident-free and enriching visit.

In summation, if Nicaragua is on your travel agenda, knowledge and vigilance are paramount. Prepared and aware, you’re poised to savor the myriad offerings of this captivating nation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is nicaragua safe for us citizens to travel to.

Nicaragua can be a suitable destination for US citizens, provided they stay cautious and remain alert to their surroundings.

The US Department of State has issued a travel advisory for Nicaragua due to concerns about crime and occasional civil unrest.

Travelers are advised to steer clear of demonstrations as they have the potential to escalate. Additionally, preventative measures against theft, like securing valuables and steering clear of remote areas during nighttime, are essential.

What’s the crime landscape like in Managua, Nicaragua?

Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, grapples with significant crime rates. Incidents such as pickpocketing, bag theft, robberies, muggings, and express kidnappings are common.

As a preventive measure, it’s wise to remain in illuminated areas, minimize carrying substantial amounts of money, and refrain from solo nocturnal ventures.

Is Nicaragua safer than Costa Rica?

Both Nicaragua and Costa Rica are considered generally safe destinations in Central America. However, Nicaragua reports a higher crime frequency than Costa Rica.

Caution and situational awareness are crucial when visiting either country.

Which language is predominantly spoken in Nicaragua?

Spanish is the official language in Nicaragua. While grasping some basic Spanish can be advantageous for travelers, English is also widely understood, especially in tourist-centric zones.

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An affable all-rounder, Nicaragua embraces travelers with diverse offerings of volcanic landscapes, historic towns, sensational beaches, remote, idyllic islands, wave-battered Pacific beaches and pristine forests.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya

Masaya & Los Pueblos Blancos

Described by the Spaniards as the gates of hell, the craters that comprise Volcán Masaya National Park are the most easily accessible active volcanoes in…

Monumento Nacional Cañon de Somoto

Northern Highlands

The Coco (or Wangki), Central America’s longest river, runs all the way to the Caribbean, but its first impression may be its most spectacular. Gushing…

Reserva Natural Volcán Mombacho

It’s been a few decades since this 1345m volcano, the defining feature of the Granada skyline, has acted up, but it is still most certainly active and…

Convento y Museo San Francisco

One of the oldest churches in Central America, Convento San Francisco boasts a robin's egg–blue birthday-cake facade and houses both an important convent…

Museo Arqueológico Huellas de Acahualinca

Discovered by miners in 1874, these fossilized tracks record the passage of perhaps 10 people – men, women and children – as well as birds, raccoons, deer…

Iglesia de la Recolección

Three blocks north of the cathedral, the 1786 Iglesia de la Recolección is considered the city’s most beautiful church, a Mexican-style baroque confection…

Antigua Catedral

The hollow shell of Managua’s Old Cathedral remains Managua’s most poignant metaphor, shattered by the 1972 earthquake – and slowly undergoing restoration…

Reserva Natural Isla Juan Venado

León & Northwestern Nicaragua

This 20km-long, sandy barrier island (in some places only 300m wide) has swimming holes and lots of wildlife, including hundreds of migrating bird species…

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Nicaragua and beyond

Is Nicaragua Safe for Travel?

Dec 27, 2023 | Nicaragua , Safety

Nicaragua, the lesser-known neighbor of tourist hotspots Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Panama, is an up-and-coming traveler’s gem. Lush jungles, active volcanoes, colonial cities, friendly locals, and secluded beaches offer a little something for everyone. Over the last decade, Nicaragua has finally made a name for itself on the traveler’s map but the country’s recent political unrest leaves many travelers wondering… is it a safe place to travel?

Compared to its heavily trafficked neighboring countries, Nicaragua has a far less violent crime rate. Although the country’s past turmoil may make it seem unsafe in a lot of ways, it is a relatively safe place for tourism and travelers.

That being said, it is not without crime and has dealt with its own issues. Just like many other developing countries, being aware of the dangers, knowing potential scams, and taking precautions to stay safe are all crucial insights to an enjoyable trip.

Here are the facts…

Nicaragua’s political past

Nicaragua has had a tough political history with long reigns of dictatorship. In the 1980s, the Central American country had an intense civil war that took the lives of over 30 thousand Nicaraguans. Although it is still recovering from its turbulent past over 2 decades ago, it remains one of the safest countries in Central America.

Last Civil unrest

In April 2018, protests started against social security reforms implemented by the government. The reforms increased taxes and decreased social security. These protests were instantly met with repression from authorities and from April 2018-February 2019, over 300 people were killed as a result.

Due to political and civil turmoil in the country, governments around the world have updated their travel advisories and recommended that tourists change their travel plans to avoid Nicaragua. This brought tourism to a halt in 2018 and many tourist-based businesses were closed for an extended period.

Since December 2018, civil unrest in the country has come to a halt and as a result of the gained stability, hotels and tourist areas started to reopen their doors. Since then, tourism has slowly returned and more people are catching on to visiting Nicaragua as a budget-friendly destination.

Even so, some major countries still have high travel advisories for Nicaragua and the country is still deemed unstable. (The United States still has a level 3 travel advisory on the country.)

These days, protests have since ceased and the country has calmed down. There is no serious threat to tourists. Being aware of the situation and staying out of political issues, and protests should keep you out of harm’s way during your travels in the country.

Petty crimes such as robbery and theft are the most common offenses in Nicaragua. These usually take place in the capital of Managua and larger cities such as Granada and Leon.

As with many developing countries, pickpocketing is especially common in public areas. Bus stations, public transport, markets, and anywhere heavily trafficked are hotspots for pickpockets. Especially in large cities.

To avoid being a potential target, you should keep minimal cash on you. The money you do bring should be kept in a secure place such as a travel money belt. Try not to have anything bulging from your pockets- as it can make you an easy target. It’s also a good idea not to wear expensive clothing or flashy jewelry, as this will attract attention to yourself.

Another important action is to keep your phone hidden. Try not to pull it out and flash it on the street or anywhere in public. Look at your map and directions before you leave your room and don’t wander around staring at your expensive smartphone. It can easily be snatched from your hand by someone passing by.

You’ll notice that Nicaragua, like many developing countries, has different daily-life security measures than most Western countries. In cities and larger towns, houses are generally surrounded by high walls, the windows are barred, and a lot of people have some form of security system (usually loud dogs).

Most hotels, banks, shopping centers, and gated communities have around-the-clock security guards posted at entrances and in common areas. This is all for the general well-being and safety of locals and tourists alike.

It is a good idea to choose your accommodation wisely. Do your research and choose hotels with around-the-clock security in safe areas. You should also check if you have a safe or lockbox in your room for your valuables.

Online reviews about your accommodation’s security can be a comforting thing to look into before your trip.

Violent Crime

Nicaragua has the lowest violent crime rate in Central America with far less violent crime than the more popular tourist destinations of Costa Rica, Belize, Panama, Mexico, or Guatemala*. In fact, Nicaragua has a violent crime rate considerably lower than the average in urban areas of the USA**. But that doesn’t mean that it is non-existent. Here are a few things to be aware of and tips to stay safe if you are unfortunate enough to fall victim to these crimes while traveling.

Source * Wikipedia ** NYPOST

Although uncommon, armed robberies have been reported in the country. These generally occur in crime hotspots of larger cities.

If you are attacked by an armed robber, do not resist. It is best to simply hand over your valuables, listen to their demands, and be on your way. You can go to the police and file a report but don’t count on your stolen items being returned.

The best thing would be to make sure you have travel insurance before your trip and that it covers your valuables. Having a police report will support your claim and although the robbery might have brought your spirits down, you are safe and should receive compensation for your insured valuables.

More dangerous theft and armed robberies often occur at night or when people are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Being a smart and aware traveler can help you avoid these situations.

Travel during the day and avoid walking alone at night with money or valuables on you. It is best to refrain from walking down unlit streets or passing through well-known heavy crime areas. If you are traveling by car in the city or at a stoplight, consider keeping your doors locked and windows up to be safe.

Issues on the Road

Express kidnappings from taxi drivers have also been reported in Nicaragua and although rare, it is important to be aware of the danger. They often drive stolen cars calling themselves taxis in areas around Managua and also in larger cities such as Granada, and Masaya.

There have been cases of kidnappers threatening the victim, and forcing them to take out cash at various ATMs they are driven to.

It is important to be attentive when choosing a taxi. Here are some things to consider when choosing your driver.

• Make sure the taxi has a red border around the license plate and the number is clear
• Don’t share a cab with anyone you don’t know or trust
• When possible radio or call a cab from a reputable company or better yet, arrange reliable transport with your hotel.
• Make sure the car is labeled with the company name and logo and you note the driver’s name and registration.

Similar robberies have been reported on certain highways such as the Managua-Leon highway and the Tipitapa-Masaya highway that connects the international airport to Granada. These are usually fake police inspections that end in bribes or tourists having to go to various ATMs to withdraw cash for the “police”. It is best to avoid these areas at night and always ask for credentials if you are stopped by the police.

Women’s safety

Women traveling alone should take special caution, avoid drinking too much, and consider not walking alone (especially at night).

If you are traveling solo as a woman, look for comfortable accommodation in a safe area with hosts that are backed by a solid reputation. This is one of many major tips for solo female travelers to consider on the road.

It is not uncommon to have to pay the police to get out of a minor traffic infraction or for forgetting documentation in your hotel room. It is a good idea to keep a small amount of money with your driver’s license and hide the rest. You don’t want to end up paying more than they ask for after seeing a wad of cash in your wallet.

Scams to Avoid

Every developing country has its list of scams that locals have conjured up to score some extra cash from tourists. Nicaragua is no different, and although you will most likely not have to deal with this, it’s good to be aware of all possibilities before your trip.

Here is a list of the top scams on tourists.

• People asking you to help pay for medicine for a sick child or family member.
• Requests to support locals or their families on the street.
• Fake police: Always ask to see a police ID or credentials before handing over your passport or important documentation.
• Be careful when renting cars or motorbikes. Read the contract, take pictures, and check the vehicle over thoroughly before rental.
• Be aware of dodgy tour operators and only use reputable companies. You can find great operators by doing online research or by word of mouth from fellow travelers or friends.
• Be aware of the taxis and transport you choose and make sure you are using reputable drivers.

Overview of tips on staying safe.

Overall if you are smart, attentive, and you follow your traveler’s intuition, you should have an enjoyable experience in the country and remain safe. Here are the top tips on keeping safe while traveling in Nicaragua.

• Keep your valuables on you in transit or locked away in your room. You should only bring what you need on outings and be aware of pickpocketing.
• Avoid flashing valuables and expensive jewelry in public places.
• Don’t walk alone at night.
• Travel during the day as much as possible.
• Be cautious of the transport you choose.
• Choose reputable hotels outside of crime hotspots with 24-hour security.
• Don’t resist or fight back if attacked by an armed robber.
• Don’t get involved in politics and avoid participating in political gatherings or protests.

Coronavirus in Nicaragua

The government has done little to educate its people on the dangers of Coronavirus and has put no restrictive measures down during the entire process. But, the general public is aware of the seriousness of this global pandemic and has taken matters into their own hands for their health and safety.

Most people used to wear masks in public places, alcohol/sanitizer was graciously handed out when entering large shopping centers, and handwashing stations were placed in front of smaller shops and in front of some bus stops. However, these measurements are no longer taking place in the country.

It is up to you to be socially responsible during this global pandemic, wash your hands frequently, and choose your destinations and accommodations based on measures put in place for your health and safety.

Overall, Nicaragua is a generally safe and comfortable country for travel and tourism and has a greater success rate compared to other countries in Central America. Your safety comes down to having your head on your shoulders, researching the dangers and scams before you go, booking comfortable and safe accommodation away from crime hotpots, and being aware of yourself and your surroundings on your Journey.

A Stay at Costa Dulce Retreat

Here at Costa Dulce Surf & Yoga Retreat , we offer a safe and comfortable living space and would be happy to welcome you to our family at our bungalows overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We provide private transportation with people we know and trust and hold a safe space tucked away at an (almost) private beach 20 minutes south of San Juan del Sur. Learn more about our Yoga Retreats & Surf Camp  or check out our retreat packages .

I question your sentiments that Nicaragua is a safe country. If it is such a wonderful place why are so many residents flooding into the USA complaining of civil violence.

Bill Stafford on January 2, 2024 at 8:21 pm

They aren’t. That’s MAGA hyper B.S. Read, listen, learn.

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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.

See & Do

Managua: why this hidden gem deserves to be explored.

Guides & Tips

11 nicaraguan words and phrases you need to know.

Places to Stay

The best bed and breakfasts in nicaragua.

How To Go Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

Bars & Cafes

The best wine bars in nicaragua.

The Best Boutique Resorts in Nicaragua

The Best Hotels in Granada, Nicaragua

Where to Stay in Granada, Nicaragua

The Best Hotels in Nicaragua for Every Traveler

The Best Markets to Visit in Nicaragua

The most beautiful historical towns and cities in nicaragua.

The Story Behind How Nicaragua Got its Name

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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Is Costa Rica Safe To Visit?

C osta Rica is a quaint country within Central America that borders Nicaragua and Panama. Although many travelers mistake it for one, Costa Rica is technically not an island. On the west side of the country is the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is located on the east. Costa Rica is an ideal location with a tropical climate and incredible natural beauty, alongside thriving biodiversity and vast landscapes that are quite impressive. This mountainous country is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Travelers visiting the country will not have a dull moment. There is plenty for travelers to do in Costa Rica. Some of the top tourist attractions in the country include the Nicoya Peninsula, Ecotermales Hot Springs, Manuel Antonio National Park and Arenal Volcano. There are countless other natural attractions that travelers enjoy exploring. Although a lot of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions are naturally made, the country has metropolitan areas as well. Safety in metro areas can be somewhat questionable. This is especially true in situations where travelers face unfamiliar environments abroad. To establish whether or not Costa Rica is safe , we compiled all the important information on the country for potential visitors.

Best Travel Advisories

An important factor of traveling abroad safely is having information on the status of a potential travel destination. Travelers that are unsure about the safety level of their upcoming trip location should do their research. Seeking out reputable resources is wise so that travelers stay well informed. These are the top organizations that provide up to date safety information on travel destinations.

Crime Safety

The U.S. Department of State provides a well updated travel advisory. It has important information regarding the general safety of different countries and their regions. Costa Rica, for example, is categorized by the department of state as a level two destination. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling there. This caution is due to crime in the country. The types of crime are described in the safety and security portion of the travel advisory. Costa Rica’s tourism website is a good place to start for travelers with concerns for their safety. There travelers will find information about tourism and safety. To access the most secure information, online platforms like the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) are appropriate. The World Factbook on the CIA’s website describes the country’s history, U.S. Embassy contact info , local customs and travel safety tips. These pieces of information could offer travelers an opportunity to secure a safer environment while traveling.

Health Safety

Health safety is just one part of a travel destination’s overall safety level. But personal health is incredibly important for all travelers. This is especially true when tourists are traveling to a particular destination for the first time. It is important for travelers to stay informed about their potential travel destination and prepare accordingly. There are different online platforms that provide helpful information concerning the health status of locations abroad.

One of the top resources for travelers is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s traveler’s health page presents travel health notices, available medications, preventable illnesses and specialized travel tips for particular countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is another reputable resource that will help travelers assess the health safety of their potential travel destination. On Costa Rica’s official country webpage, travelers can find a profile for the destination, location specific travel advice and health statistics. There is even contact information for the WHO offices in Costa Rica.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers?

Yes, Costa Rica is a relatively safe destination for travelers. It is pretty well known by the tourism community as a safe country for solo and family travel. The country is considered secure. Technically Costa Rica is among the few countries in the world without an active army. The money that does not go to the military is for public healthcare and education. This serves as a testament to the safety level of Costa Rica. But that does not mean that crime does not occur in the Central American country.

Costa Rica does experience some crime, even though the majority of tourists feel safe there. Tourists are not disproportionately impacted by crimes in the country, but crimes do occur mostly in populated areas. Some of these may include areas frequented by tourists. The most common crimes in Costa Rica impacting tourists are petty. These include pickpocketing and theft. Generally, travelers that exercise basic travel precautions avoid being targeted by criminals.

How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica

Exercising a baseline of travel safety precautions is a wise way for travelers to secure their safety. Some of the basic precautions include staying alert in crowded areas, never leaving valuables unattended, maintaining awareness and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas. It is also important for travelers to know the contact information of local emergency services. This ensures that they are well informed of precautionary and preventive measures that may impact their overall safety abroad.

Travelers often rely on public transportation while abroad. In Costa Rica, the bus system is the most common way that both locals and visitors get around. So, it is important to know the best ways to stay safe on public transport while in unfamiliar surroundings. Travelers should at the very least be sure to stay alert while in public spaces, secure their personal belongings at their accommodation and avoid flaunting valuables or expensive things. Additional security measures while riding public transportation in Costa Rica include verifying driver’s certifications and confirming fares before entering vehicles.

Where to Stay

Costa Rica is quite vast and overall safe, so travelers have plenty of options for where to stay . But there are some options that stand out as the top selections for travelers. Tamarindo, Drake Bay and Atenas are some of the safest places for travelers to stay in. Tamarindo is located on the Pacific coast and is a popular destination in Costa Rica. Despite its popularity, Tamarindo does not have swarms of tourists in the area. The town is popular for water-sports, nightlife and culinary experiences. Drake Bay is a southwestern coastal area that offers travelers a family friendly environment. The slight privacy and peaceful ambiance of Drake Bay make it one of the safest areas of Costa Rica. Atenas is another option for travelers that stands out due to its tranquility. This small town is considered to be one of the safest areas for families or travelers that prefer to be out of all the hustle and bustle.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Costa Rica is dependent on the preferences of travelers but should be considerate of the weather conditions. The weather varies by region, but travelers can premeditate the weather conditions with forecasts before their trip. The dry season is the most popular season due to the pleasant weather. From around December to April travelers can enjoy the most ideal amount of sunshine. The characteristics of the dry season also mean that travelers should expect crowds and higher prices. If travelers do not mind rain or warmer temperatures, visiting in the rainy season or during summer may be best. The rainy season is between May and November and the highest temperatures occur during June and July.

People Also Ask

Is Costa Rica safe to live in? Yes, Costa Rica is actually one of the safest countries in Central America to live in.

Are tourists safe in Costa Rica? Tourists are perfectly safe while in Costa Rica as long as they exercise some basic travel safety precautions.