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What Travelers Need to Know About the Unrest in Nicaragua

By Sebastian Modak

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Before April 18 of this year, Nicaragua was largely heralded as a tourism success story, achieving an unlikely rise after a decades-long civil war and emerging as an eco-tourism mecca for those looking to expand their horizons beyond neighboring Costa Rica . Today, it finds itself in the midst of the largest uprising it has seen since the civil war ended in 1990. Numbers vary, but one human rights group estimates that at least 448 protestors have been killed at the hands of security forces and paramilitaries since the unrest began in April. Hotels and tour operators have largely shuttered, and tens of thousands of people are without work. Costa Rica is receiving some 200 asylum requests a day, mostly from young people who have been put on government blacklists, the Miami Herald reports . With the elected government of Daniel Ortega, who is serving his third consecutive term as president, refusing to back down, it's unclear when things will return to normal in the Central American nation—or what a new normal could look like.

How the unrest started

Largely peaceful anti-government demonstrations, in which students, pensioners, and workers protested changes to the social security system, began on April 18 and were met by force from the police and military: at least 25 people were killed in the first four days of protests, according to the Chicago Tribune . Ortega backed down from the social security overhaul, but protests have continued, with thousands taking to the streets demanding that the next elections, currently scheduled for 2021, be pushed up to 2019, citing government corruption, censorship, and violence. The Nicaraguan president has called the protestors "right-wing delinquents" and blamed the uprising on a U.S. "conspiracy" designed to topple his administration. Ortega, 72, whose wife Rosario Murillo serves as vice-president of the country, is now being called a dictator by many, even as he was once heralded as a revolutionary icon for toppling the dictatorship of the Somoza dynasty in the 1970s in what's known as the Sandinista revolution.

What the tourism industry is saying

After decades of year-over-year growth in annual tourist arrivals to Nicaragua, a number of travel specialists and hotel owners we spoke to say it has come to a virtual standstill in the past few months. "Since April, popular colonial cities have become ghost towns, and the beaches are empty," said Tim Pyne, who owns a boutique hotel in the lakeside, colonial town of Granada. (Pyne asked that the hotel—which he closed indefinitely in May—not be named.) "Many hotels, tour operators, and restaurants catering to tourists have closed their doors."

In the first weeks of unrest, tour operators tried to tough it out, but after two months of sporadic and unpredictable violence, they began canceling trips altogether.

"By early June, we told [our clients], 'You have to leave,' because things were escalating and they were getting too dangerous," the owner of an agency that specializes in travel to the country said over the phone from Costa Rica. (He asked not to be named, out of fear of government reprisals.) For trips scheduled in July and August, his agency either canceled trips or rerouted itineraries to Costa Rica and Panama. He points out that even if some of the beaches or more remote areas of the country aren't as heavily affected as the capital, Managua, or Masaya, once the heartland of the Sandinista revolution, the danger to tourists remains. "Some large, expensive hotels are still open and will tell you that everything is okay, but that’s not right," he said. "It’s very irresponsible. And maybe at the beach nothing will happen, but if you’re landing in Managua, and there are roadblocks, the streets are dangerous."

Intrepid Travel , which usually offers multiple trips a year to Nicaragua, has removed the country from its itineraries. "Although the protests and incidents in Nicaragua have been largely isolated to areas that do not pose a risk to our groups, we have determined that re-routing our itineraries to avoid the country for the time being is the best option for all involved," an Intrepid spokesperson said. Trips are still running, but the company is replacing Nicaragua dates with destinations in El Salvador and Costa Rica; guests are being given the option to cancel for a full refund or choose an alternative itinerary.

What the State Department is saying

The U.S. State Department currently has a level three travel advisory (of a four-point scale) for the whole country, translating to a recommendation for Americans to "reconsider travel" to the country due to "crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare availability." (Other countries carrying the level three advisory include Venezuela for "crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, and arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens," and Pakistan for "terrorism.")

"Heavily armed, government-controlled parapolice forces in civilian clothing, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, operate in large parts of the country, including Managua. They are often in vehicles that don’t have license plates, and they may be escorted by uniformed police forces. These groups are attacking blockades, kidnapping and detaining individuals, taking over privately owned land, and committing other crimes," the advisory reads, before going on to warn that protests can occur without any notice around the country and that hospitals are at capacity with victims of violence. On July 6, the U.S. State Department ordered the departure of all non-emergency government personnel from the country, and the U.S. embassy in Managua is currently only handling emergency situations. In early June, an American bar owner was found dead from a bullet wound in Managua next to two burned-out vehicles.

How air travel is affected

While Managua's airport remains open, with international flights still arriving to the country—including from the U.S.—a number of airlines have offered free cancellations or itinerary changes, due to the unrest. Copa Airlines was one of the first to do so in May, giving passengers the option to change or cancel their flights without incurring penalties. American Airlines , Delta , and United are all waiving fees for cancellations or route changes for passengers booked on flights to Managua through the end of August.

What to do if you were planning to visit Nicaragua

If you had plans to visit Nicaragua this year, the universal advice is "wait and see." Still, the tourism agency owner who asked not to be named isn't optimistic about the immediate future: "The government wants to show that everything is back to normal, but it’s not: The economy is falling dangerously fast. After what happened, I think it will be very difficult to bring things back to normal," he said, having seen his business suffer as tourism dried up seemingly overnight. For those thinking about a Christmas or New Year's escape to Nicaragua, he advises waiting until closer to the travel dates to book. "If they are interested in traveling to Nicaragua, they shouldn’t decide now. They should contact their operators or specialists in the middle of September," he said.

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Pyne, the Granada hotel owner, agrees: "For the past ten years, I have encouraged people to come to Nicaragua. Not only was it our business to sell the country in order to promote our business, but we have a genuine love for the country that we enthusiastically wanted to convey to people," he said. "I believe the warmth and the resilience of the Nicaraguan people will withstand the current dictatorship, and the country will be a stronger and better place once it prevails." But, he says, it's still unclear when that time will come, especially as the Ortega government continues to refuse protestors' demands to call for an early election. For those who absolutely insist on visiting right now, he recommends taking extra precautions, including contacting tour operators and hotels far in advance to make sure they are open and staffed, and avoiding Airbnbs that lack the private security found at many hotels.

Carlos Luna, the manager of a day resort in the Laguna de Apoyo nature reserve who is still in the country, put it more bluntly: "I see it as doubtful that the government...will succeed in attracting tourists anytime soon," he said. "I'd recommend to postpone any trip for at least a couple of months."

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U.S. imposes sanctions, visa restrictions on Nicaragua over repression and migrant smuggling

WASHINGTON — The United States on Wednesday imposed visa restrictions on more than 250 members of the Nicaraguan government and levied sanctions on three Nicaraguan entities in retaliation for “repressive actions” and a failure to stem migrant smuggling through the Central American country.

Senior administration officials told reporters that the officials subject to visa restrictions included police and paramilitary officials, prosecutors, judges and public higher education officials.

At the same time, the Departments of State, Homeland Security, and the Treasury issued a joint alert to notify airlines and travel agents about the ways smuggling and human trafficking networks are exploiting legitimate transportation services to facilitate illegal migration to the United States through Nicaragua.

“Actions by the Nicaraguan government are of grave concern. President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo have put in place permissive-by-design migration policies,” the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement.

The Nicaraguan government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Increasingly migrants have been flying into Nicaragua and then heading north overland to the U.S.-Mexico border as some smugglers have promoted the route through social networks.

Many migrants in recent years have started their journeys in Brazil or other South American countries, but flying into Nicaragua avoids the  often perilous journey  through the jungle region known as the Darien Gap on the Colombia-Panama border.

The administration of President  Joe Biden , a Democrat, has struggled with record numbers of migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border and, as he runs for reelection  in November , voters have increasingly said that immigration is a top concern.

Senior Biden administration officials told reporters on a Wednesday conference call that sanctions would be levied against a Russian training center operating in Managua since October 2017 that enabled anti-democratic behavior and repression.

A press release from the Treasury Department said Nicaragua was one of Russia’s “main partners” in Central America and the training center provided specialized courts to the Nicaraguan National Police (NNP), which the statement called “a repressive state apparatus, carrying out extrajudicial killings, using live ammunition against peaceful protests, and even participating in death squads.”

In addition, the Treasury Department imposed sanctions on two gold companies it said were “government affiliated.”

Gold is Nicaragua’s top commodity export, the Treasury announcement said, and “this action aims to degrade the ability of the Ortega-Murillo regime to manipulate the sector and profit.” Reuters was not immediately able to reach the companies for comment.

Migrant apprehensions on the border halved from December to March, according to U.S. government data, in part because of increased enforcement by Mexican authorities, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has said.

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This Central American Country Is Home to Beautiful Beaches, Epic Surf, and a Rich Cultural History

How to plan the perfect Nicaragua vacation — boutique hotels, stellar surfing spots, and delicious food included.

Jade Moyano is a Brazilian-born travel writer and editorial director who speaks four languages. Her work has appeared in Monocle, Uproxx, GQ, Travel + Leisure , and other publications.

Nicaragua is a postcard-worthy destination that harkens back to simpler travel times.

Lined with emerald-green coasts dotted with old-school fishing villages, it's a place where you can surf nearly empty lineups as if you were still in the '70s.

I've sailed around its Pacific coast in a catamaran, stopping at deserted islands to watch dolphins frolic by. I've danced salsa in a corner bar in Granada, one of the oldest colonial cities in Latin America. I've ridden motorcycles through dense jungle trails in Popoyo, had gallo pinto on the side of the Pan-American Highway, and made friends that will last a lifetime. But these experiences barely scratch the surface of why Nicaragua is one of my favorite destinations.

For starters, Nicaragua is not for everyone. It's rugged and traditional, with a bit of edge and a bloody past . But it's also home to a rich cultural heritage and friendly locals who go out of their way to get you the most delicious seafood, help you catch a wave, or show you the way around the backroads.

I first went to Nicaragua in 2015, when the country was experiencing somewhat of a golden age. A combination of affordability, an under-the-radar reputation, and the rise of surf tourism made towns such as San Juan del Sur popular. This lasted for about three short years. It was a time when things were fairly peaceful, the economy was growing, and tourism was booming. Since then, due to civil unrest and the pandemic, it has become less common to see positive headlines about the nation, but what keeps people coming back to Nicaragua — stunning nature, pristine beaches, and lively culture — is still intact.

Nicaragua is set between the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Upon landing in the capital city of Managua, most people flock to the Pacific, where the surf is some of the most consistent in all of Central America and the cities of Leon and Granada offer deep cultural insight into this beach destination . Yet, it's on the Caribbean coast where you'll find the most untouched lands. In this area, expect to find Indigenous, Creole, and British influences in the fishing communities that live among the mangrove-filled jungle.

Best Time to Go to Nicaragua

While many tropical countries around the world count on an extremely dry and rainy season, Nicaragua has a milder version of both. The dry season here runs from November through May, though it's not as barren as its neighbor Costa Rica . Meanwhile, the rainy season, which spans April through October, brings torrential downpours (especially in October), but note that it's rare for it to rain all day every day.

The one thing that's rather consistent in Nicaragua is the temperature. According to Weather Spark , "The temperature in Managua varies so little throughout the year that it is not entirely meaningful to discuss hot and cold seasons."

One more forecast you may be interested in is the surf. According to Giant's Foot Surf , for waist- to head-high swells, visit Nicaragua between March and September. But if you're looking for larger waves, you may need to come in the middle of the rainy season — between May to August — which Giant's Foot Surf calls the nation's "prime time."

Best Things to Do in Nicaragua

No trip to Nicaragua is complete without a deep dive into the world of surf, sun, and sandboarding.

The Pacific coast of Nicaragua is lined with beaches for all surf levels. Some must-see spots include Playa Maderas, Popoyo, El Tránsito, Playa Colorado, and Playa Hermosa, and it's possible to experience all of these during a weeklong trip.

El Tránsito is a short, 90-minute drive from the Managua airport. In El Tránsito, you'll find yourself immersed in a tight-knit community of locals and about some expat families. Stay at Mandla , a boutique hotel designed by a couple from England and South Africa. Make sure to eat every item on their menu, especially the fresh oysters.

Further south, you can stop at Popoyo, where consistent offshore winds and epic waves make it one of the best places to surf in all of Central America. Malibu Popoyo , a 12-room resort tailor-made for surfing families, is perfectly perched across from the beach, and stays here come with a great surf coach and tour guide.

Next, head down to Playa Maderas for a more mellow, family-friendly beach experience ideal for beginners. If surfing is not your thing, don't worry, as these beaches also flourish with local life, seafood restaurants, and occasional live music.

Want to see more land, but don't want to forgo surfing? Volcano boarding is your best bet. Yes, we are talking about sliding down Cerro Negro after hiking to the summit at 2,300 feet. The trek is challenging, but the ride back is unforgettable. All you have to do is hold a string attached to a wooden plank and slide down to the bottom at an average speed of 50 mph.

Lastly, visit Ometepe , an island formed by two volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua. To arrive, hop aboard one of the wooden transport boats that may also be carrying anything from chickens to motorcycles. On Ometepe, you can choose to trek up the volcanic peaks, swim in natural pools, get lost on nature trails, or taste coffee right next to the field in which the beans are grown.

Best Hotels in Nicaragua

Anyone who lands in Managua also has the option to drive north or south, to choose between more populated areas or seclusion. But regardless of the direction, Nicaragua is full of small boutique hotels from renowned designers and hoteliers who flocked to the country in search of a more laid-back lifestyle.

For a design-forward property, check into the Tribal Hotel in Granada. Aside from its location on a colorful street, the New Yorkers who own the hotel traveled the world seeking unique pieces that complement the artisanship of local craftsmen. From Copacabana pool tiles to Indonesian batik fabrics, Tribal feels like a slice of the world on an unassuming corner in the bustling colonial city.

For those wanting to surf exclusive Playa Colorado, located within a gated community near Popoyo, Aurea is your best bet for guaranteed access to the world-class waves. The brutalist-inspired guest house, which was dreamed up by a group of Venezuelans, feels less like a hotel and more like a home within a community of expats and well-to-do Nicaraguans.

For something more accessible, book a stay at the aforementioned Malibu Popoyo , a 12-room boutique hotel owned by a female surfer and entrepreneur who fell in love with the area during a surf trip. Perfect for families in search of adventure and comfort, as well as surfers and creative types, the property is located a few steps from the beach and boasts an on-site organic restaurant.

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Life after wartime: Nicaragua transitions to adventure tourism

Sledding at top speed down a live volcano is not something I would ever choose to do on vacation. But we were traveling in Nicaragua with our teenage kids, and volcano sledding was their No. 1 choice of excursions.

As I flew down the steep pebbly face of the black volcano astride a rustic wooden sled, I plastered a grin on my face and tried to focus my jittery mind on being brave rather than terrified so my children wouldn’t think I was a wimp. It probably wasn’t the best time to forget our guide’s instructions on how to brake.

The ensuing high-speed wipeout and bloody abrasions on my face and leg earned me the nickname “Gnarly Mom” from our teens for the rest of the Nicaraguan ad­ven­ture — so, of course, it was worth it.

Ascending and sliding down Cerro Negro, an active volcano near Leon, was the most memorable of many novel experiences that we had when my husband, Andrew, 17-year-old Celia, 19-year-old Solomon and I traveled to Nicaragua for a week in December. We chose Nicaragua because the three of us enjoy practicing our Spanish (and watching Andrew butcher the language with good-natured enthusiasm). We also sought a mix of outdoor and cultural adventures similar to our Costa Rica trip a few years back.

Even the early morning drive to the volcano was fascinating. Most Nicaraguans in the countryside grow and raise their own food and have chickens, pigs, cows, (bony) dogs, and horses. Besides the animals, we shared the road with children pulling wagons full of sticks, whole families riding motorcycles (three people — often including a baby — on one bike isn’t uncommon) and carts pulled by beefy oxen.

We knew we were in for the kind of adventure our food-and-nature-loving family favors when, during the 90-minute drive from Managua to Leon, we pulled over twice to order street food like fried cheese, plantain chips and quesillos, and once more for our Greenspot Travel guide Oscar to photograph us on the shores of Lake Managua with the famed Momotombo volcano in the background.

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The Central American country is becoming a hot destination for North American and European travelers for good reasons, and the country is working diligently to embrace and entertain adventurers. While many Americans still associate the country with revolution and civil war, today’s Nicaragua shows few traces of the violent conflicts that ended 27 years ago. The country is peaceful and the agricultural and tourist economy are flourishing.

With a college sophomore and a high school senior, we are keenly aware that we likely have few opportunities left to explore the world together. Nicaragua, a country in transition, turned out to be a perfect spot to connect with each other as our family moves toward an empty nest.

We stayed in three places during our eight-day trip: charming boutique hotels in the colonial cities of Leon and Granada, and thatched bungalows nestled into the cliffs at Morgan’s Rock, a small eco-resort near the Pacific beach town of San Juan del Sur. Each served as comfortable, colorful bases for our families’ daily explorations.

Leave your stilettos at home. Nicaragua is a casual country — we found no occasion to dress up — and the cities, while pedestrian-friendly (even for stray horses and donkeys) have uneven sidewalks and gaping holes in the pavement (a.k.a. ankle breakers). Using a wheelchair or a walker would be a huge physical challenge. Even pushing a stroller would be tricky.

‘City of Poets’

Leon is a university town, the second-largest city in Nicaragua. It is nicknamed the “City of Poets” and is the cultural hub of Nicaragua. Like most colonial towns in Latin America, Leon is built around a large central square lined with a cathedral, cafes, restaurants (the crowd favorite is El Sesteo, right on the square), important civic buildings and hotels.

In Leon and Granada, the squares were bustling with live music, food, cheerful families, artisan marketplaces and street performers. The bustling food markets are adjacent to the squares, and although they are pungent and intriguing with giant papayas, piles of plantains and vats of pickled chiles, they lack the sensory charm of markets in France and Turkey.

We explored the colorful city on foot from lovely Hotel El Convento, where the beautiful, peaceful interior courtyard is populated with birds bathing in the center fountain in the morning and bats darting around the banana trees in the evening. Many families update the colors of their houses during the holidays every year, so the doors and walls along the streets of Leon are a delightful mix of greens, blues, pinks and yellows.

Given the tropical climate, many restaurants and cafes operate in open air and have inviting gardens and hammocks where guests can relax during the wait for food and drinks — which, especially in Leon, could be quite lengthy. While waiting for lunch one afternoon at a charming cafe called Las Dos Fridas, I swung gently in a hammock to quell my hunger-induced irritation at the delay. But the dishes, once served, were prepared with such care, and the setting was so relaxing, that I felt silly for importing my U.S.-style impatience.

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From Leon we also took a half-day kayak trip to the Juan Venado Island Nature Reserve. Paddling through the estuary, we spotted dozens of species of exotic (to us) birds such as great blue herons and snowy egrets nestling among the mangrove forest. The highlight of the outing was cradling newly hatched olive ridley sea turtles that were being protected by naturalists post-hatching and would be released into the sea that evening to ensure their best chance of survival.

After a well-earned, delightful lunch of fresh fish at a funky hostel on the beach, we stopped in the small village of San Jacinto, known for its boiling volcanic mud pits, which serve as breathing holes for the nearby volcanoes. The village children hawk the mud (and rustic crafts made from it) to tourists, swearing that they treat everything from acne to insect bites.

After walking through the mud fields, we had a tortilla-making tutorial from a woman who supports her daughter and herself by making the tortillas for families in the village. We cooked the fresh tortillas on a hot comal (cast iron grill over an open fire), then she treated us to a snack of fresh cheese and freshly pressed melon juice, which we enjoyed with our tasty, if misshapen, creations.

Shores of Lake Nicaragua

We drove two hours south for our two-night stay at Hotel Colonial in Granada. The city sits on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, a massive freshwater lake filled with nearly 400 small islands, including some that boast active volcanoes.

Granada feels more international, with tourists from all over the world, more shopping options, more aggressive vendors in the central square, more upscale hotels, bars and a wider variety of restaurants — including Irish pubs, sushi bars, and Starbucks-style coffee shops where you can get Nicaraguan grown coffee in a to-go cup. (We opted to sit and savor ours as the Nicaraguans do.) But even in Granada, stray horses and skinny dogs share the restaurant strip with wobbly travelers who have imbibed too many Macuás (rum-based fruity cocktails.)

Our family took a motorboat ride to explore some of the isletas on Lake Nicaragua. While the highlight was the great variety of migrating and nesting birds, we were also intrigued by the elaborate mansions on some of the islands and momentarily tempted by the “en venta” (for sale) signs on a few. Some of the islands have restaurants or night clubs; one is an abandoned fort erected to protect Granada from invaders.

Like cruising in a gondola in Venice, clopping through the cobblestone streets of Granada in a horse-drawn carriage is on the agenda of every tourist and tour guide. It’s a charming way to get a better feel for the city and its landmarks, including its historic cemetery. But the horse lover in me couldn’t help feeling sorry for the skinny nags and the pace they had to keep in the Nicaraguan heat.

The four of us got a kick out of the theatrical and informative hands-on chocolate workshop at the quirky ChocoMuseo. Our animated guide Ishmael walked us through chocolate production from seeing the cacao beans growing in pods on demonstration trees in the center courtyard of the “museo,” to roasting, pounding and grinding the beans by hand to a cocoa paste, to tasting cacao the way it was eaten by the Mayans and Incans (bitter!), to ultimately blending it with cocoa butter and designing our own chocolate bars with dried fruit, nuts, coarse salt or whatever mix-ins we preferred. Before we could walk off our chocolate highs, Ishmael led us in downing shots of chocolate-flavored liquor while we chanted “Ariba, Abajo, Al Centro, Adentro!” (Up, down, to the middle, inside!) ​

We indulged our last three nights at Morgan’s Rock, the stunning eco-resort. That part of the country is known for its beach towns, where expat surfers ride waves and families from all over Nicaragua come to vacation. At Morgan’s Rock, smiling staff members greeted us with fresh juice cocktails (rum was optional) and led us past the stunning pool down to the private cove dotted with alluring cabanas, hammocks, an open-air spa and yoga studio, and a beach bar. It felt like the howler monkeys might drop in at any moment for a banana smoothie.

We crossed the 50-yard-long suspension bridge to our bungalow nestled on a cliff over the ocean, one of only 15 rooms at Morgan’s Rock. I was delighted when Andrew cautioned me with words I never hear in Chevy Chase: “Watch out for the monkey poop” on the steps to our room. The beautifully designed split-level cabanas sleep up to five people and have large screens to keep the bugs out, large fans to keep the air circulating, a rocking daybed on the balcony where we could relax and listen to the sounds of the waves, and outdoor and indoor showers. The place was a tropical paradise. Three days seemed too short.

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Because Morgan’s Rock is nestled in a cove, the water is calm and warm(ish) enough even for skittish ocean swimmers. Across the sand is an estuary lined with the stones perfect for skipping, which Andrew and Solomon did for hours. The resort also has kayaks, surfboards, boogie boards and bicycles for guest use, and offers a range of activities from horseback riding to fishing to surfing lessons. However, I primarily used the time to relax, read and regain a sense of inner peace after a hectic autumn. Following a late afternoon massage, I drifted to sleep on the massage table to the sounds of the sea and awoke surrounded by candles whose flames were dancing in the soft breeze.

We woke up early one morning to take a breakfast excursion to Morgan Rock’s farm. As we bounced along in the open-air jeep, our guide pointed out monkeys and a sloth (we steered around an iguana) and the shrimp and tree farms.

At the farm, we milked a cow (taking care not to pull on the teat reserved for her calf) and gathered still-warm eggs for breakfast. One of the cooks from the resort, Xiomara, scrambled the eggs and made the most magnificent salsa and gallo pinto (rice and beans). She was delightful and couldn’t stop giggling about Andrew’s poor tortilla-shaping skills. Unlike many of the other animals we saw, the flocks and herds at Morgan’s Rock looked healthy, well-kept and well-fed.

On New Year’s Eve, after a sumptuous buffet on the beach, we drank champagne and Macuás and danced to live local music with the other guests and with the children and grandchildren of the lodge owners, who have a house just down the beach from the resort and who we had met walking on the shore our first day.

To usher out the year and welcome a new one, Nicaraguans stuff a life-size puppet of an old man with firecrackers and set him ablaze at midnight. With major life changes on the horizon for our family in 2017, the dazzling spectacle seemed appropriate to launch us into the new year.

Goldfarb is a writer based in Chevy Chase. Her website is AvivaGoldfarb.com; find her on Twitter at @AvivaGoldfarb .

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Where to stay

Hotel El Convento

Next to San Francisco Church

011-505-2311-7053

elconventonicaragua.com

The 31-room boutique hotel, located two blocks from Leon’s central square, was built in the traditional Spanish colonial style on the site of a historic convent. Rooms surround a colorful garden and fountain . Rooms from $72, deluxe breakfast included.

Hotel El Colonial

Calle La Libertad, steps from the central square

011-505-2552-7299

hotelcolonialgranada.com

Located just steps from the central square, it's easy to admire the property's colorfully painted tile and blooming flowers. It features 36 comfortable rooms that surround two small pools and a bar. Have breakfast downstairs in the kitchen or by the pool for $4. Transfers from the airport to the hotel are available for a fee. Double rooms from $98.

Morgan's Rock

Playa Ocotal, San Juan del Sur, Rivas

011-505-2563-9005

morgansrock.com

Stay in one of the hotel's secluded ocean-view bungalows overlooking the beach. Site activities include visiting a working dairy farm and shrimp farm, deep-sea fishing, hiking, mountain biking, yoga, a spa on the beach and relaxation in one of the beachfront cabanas. All activities and meals are provided . Double rooms from $203 a night, or $406 a night with three meals per person.

Where to eat

Restaurante El Sesteo

Central Street Rubén Darío, in front of Central Park.

011-505- 2311-5327

restauranteelsesteo.online.com.ni

The ideal spot for people-watching on the main square. Offers a solid variety of traditional fare , good service and a great spot to sip a coffee, smoothie or beer, and take in the local night life . Entrees from $3.30.

Las Dos Fridas

011-505-8627-4658

facebook.com/lasdosfridasnicaragua

A laid back, female-run cafe with cheap eats, as well as a small art gallery , gift shop, garden and hammock . Entrees for less than $5.

La Sirena Ave., behind Granada Cathedral

011-505-2552-2522

bit.ly/ElZaguan

A restaurant known for its grilled steaks, whole fish and indulgent service. Lunch and dinner entrees from $8.

The Garden Cafe

Corner of Calle Libertad and Calle Cervantes

011-505-2552-8582

gardencafegranada.com

A relaxed, welcoming cafe with fresh and creative food. Served in a former colonial home with a social mission of supporting Nicaraguans through providing jobs and selling local crafts. Open breakfast, lunch and dinner. Entrees from $3.

Cerro Negro Volcano Sandboarding Tour

Various private tour companies in Leon can arrange a day trip.

Climb up a famous active, steep, black volcano while carrying large, wooden sand boards. After donning protective suits and getting a quick lesson at the top, sit atop the sled and slide down the face of the volcano at high speed. Tours from around $25.

Juan Venado Island Nature Reserve

Arrange kayak or motorboat tours through tour companies or directly at hotels in Las Penitas.

vianica.com/attraction/13/juan-venado-island

The nature reserve features an estuary and mangrove forest with 106 species of wild birds and a remote nesting site for olive ridley sea turtles between the months of August and January. Located 25 minutes from Leon and accessible by bus or from Las Penitas.

Local hotels and beach camping also available. Eat lunch in the fishing village at one of the hotels for around $12.

San Jacinto Boiling Mud Pits

vianica.com/attraction/11/san-jacinto-hot-springs

The mud pits provide breathing holes for nearby volcanoes, and the mud is said to have medicinal properties. Local children will be glad to show you around, and you'll likely encounter wandering farm animals in the small village of San Jacinto. Admission: $2.

Las Isletas Boat Tour

Arrange a tour in advance or hire a boat at the harbor at the Las Isletas wharf.

Situated at the foot of Mombacho volcano, Las Isletas consists of nearly 400 small islands in Lake Nicaragua, that were formed by a volcanic eruption 20,000 years ago. Tour the islands by motorboat or kayak, and see exotic birds, lavish mansions and monkeys on Monkey Island. Motorboat rides from $20 a person.

Atravesada Street in front of Bancentro

011-505-2552-4678

chocomuseo.com/english/our-locations/granada-nic

Learn about the history of chocolate, from bean to bar, in this highly entertaining and hands-on chocolate workshop. Museum is in a disjointed mansion that also encompasses a hotel, spa, swimming pool (mind the aggressive, territorial ducks) and a legendary chocolate breakfast buffet. Open 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Workshop/tour, $21for adults; $12 for kids.

Information

vianica.com/nicaragua/granada

vianica.com/nicaragua/rivas/san-juan-del-sur/15.9

Nicaragua highlights development and recovery of tourism

• October 31, 2023

The General Director of Tourism Development of InTur, Mara Stotti, expressed recently: “this is an international platform with more than 50 years devoted to the world of travel and tourism, where we stand out as the main destination in Central America”.

The chief executive officer (CEO) stated to national television that the recognition is the result of the constant work of the Sandinista Government, which created conditions for the enjoyment of Nicaraguan families and foreign tourists.

She also highlighted the arrival of over 700,000 foreign visitors to the country at the end of last August, and added that they are planning to end this year with over a million travelers.

The CEO specified that Nicaragua will be included in the platform’s annual mass-selling book, published in 30 languages, which will highlight the natural beauties of the country.

“We are happy with the recognition of the effort and work that has been done and also all the promotion within the framework of Nicaragua’s latest campaign,” she said.

Stotti mentioned the Executive’s work in the improvement of different destinations, roads, and border checkpoints.

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• # NICARAGUA # tourism

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Nicaragua

Written by Carri Wilbanks Updated Jul 13, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Biodiverse and naturally beautiful, Nicaragua is a still off-the-grid destination, filled with active volcanoes, cloud forests, jungles, lakes, and two coastlines, all boasting plenty of attractions and things to do.

Outdoor adventure enthusiasts can hike to natural attractions like crater lakes in dormant volcanos or sled down mountains of ash on wooden boards. While those in search of wildlife experiences can explore one of the many protected reserves around Nicaragua that are home to everything from jaguars to howler and white-faced monkeys and hundreds of species of birds.

With beaches on both its Caribbean and Pacific Ocean coastlines, there are plenty of options for getting wet as well. Towns like San Juan del Sur on the Pacific Ocean's Emerald Coast near Costa Rica are top places to visit, famous for their colorful architecture and surf scene. While the Corn Islands in the Caribbean Sea are known for their laid-back beach vibe.

Managua is Nicaragua's capital city, but people tend not to linger here unless visiting for business. Many things to do really lie in the smaller cities, like Leon and Granada , which are known for their colorful architecture and churches, and natural attractions such as Lake Nicaragua. It is the largest freshwater lake in Central America and home to hundreds upon hundreds of islands, including some with amazing ecolodges.

And then there are the multitude of volcanoes, some dormant; others, like the Masaya Volcano , still very much active. Here are our picks for the top things to see and do around Nicaragua.

1. Islets of Granada

2. corn islands, 3. masaya volcano, 4. cerro negro, 5. mombacho volcano nature preserve, 6. lake nicaragua, 7. san juan del sur, 8. somoto canyon national monument, 9. isla ometepe, 10. bosawas biosphere reserve, 11. granada, 12. reserva natural miraflor, 14. apoyo lagoon natural reserve, 15. san juan de oriente, map of attractions & things to do in nicaragua.

Lake Nicaragua is home to 365 small islands that form an archipelago known as Las Isletas or Islets of Granada, due to their location southeast of the colonial city of Granada. The islets are more than 25,000 years old, initially formed from the ash and stones of the Mombacho volcano .

While some islets are deserted, others have limited development, mostly in the form of ecolodges. Jicaro Island Lodge is one such place. The boutique property is truly special, a place where you can disconnect to reconnect with nature. And you can explore the other islets by SUP board or kayak from the dock at Jicaro if you're staying here.

The accommodation at Jicaro Island Lodge is in two-story wooden treehouses that have an indoor/outdoor vibe and truly feel like sleeping in the midst of the jungle (but are protected from mosquitoes and other biting bugs).

In the Caribbean Sea, about 70 kilometers off Nicaragua's east coast, the Corn Islands are where to go for a laid-back holiday. Big Corn is where you will usually arrive (there are flights from Managua), but you can sleep on either isle.

Despite its name, the Big Corn is actually quite small, and you can bike around it in about an hour. The beaches here are beautiful, light-gold-sand affairs fronted by crystal-clear, turquoise water that stays warm year-round.

From Big Corn, it is a 40-minute boat ride to Little Corn . The tiny island has some accommodation and eating options but no banks or vehicles. You can walk around Little Corn in less than an hour.

There is excellent diving in the reefs off both the Corn Islands, which is why many people visit.

Protected in the country's largest national park, the Masaya Volcano is also one of Nicaragua's top places to visit, just 20 kilometers south of Nicaragua's capital city of Managua.

The most amazing part about visiting this active volcano is how close you can get to the lip of the crater in a private vehicle - you simply drive right up to the edge and park, although you have to park facing downhill in case an emergency evacuation is necessary.

Looking down into the crater, you can see a lake of molten lava. Visit after dark to see the glow the bubbling lava creates inside the pit. If you visit during the day, there is a museum on-site, as well as picnic facilities.

The volcano can be visited on a day trip from Managua or Granada .

If you want to get your adrenaline pumping a bit then head to Cerro Negro. One of the youngest volcanoes in the world, it last erupted in 1999 and features a dramatic black cone.

While it's still considered active, today most people head to Cerro Negro to try their skills at volcano surfing. The sport involves riding down the side of the volcano's black ash on a wooden surfboard. You'll be wearing a boiler suit and goggles for protection, and you can reach speeds of upwards of 60 miles per hour. The boards can either be ridden sled style (sitting down) or standing up like a surf or snowboard.

Note that to ride down the volcano, you have to hike up. The trek takes about 40 minutes. Most people try this on an organized adventure tour.

Located atop the dormant Mombacho Volcano, this nature preserve includes a unique cloud forest landscape and covers 2,500 acres. It sits to the southwest of Managua , just 10 kilometers from the colonial town of Granada and magnificent Lake Nicaragua .

Surrounded by rural farms and coffee plantations, the landscape is beautiful. The reserve is known for its prolific, colorful and fragrant flora, with more than 800 species of plants growing here.

There are also hundreds of animal species making their home on Mombacho, including the bright red and green quetzal bird and a number of monkey species such as white-faced monkeys and howler monkeys. The best way to experience the preserve is on one of the many hiking trails running through it.

The reserve is also home to a tourist center, where you can pick up a guide to hike around one of the four volcanic craters, all covered with a rare type of cloud forest that is only found in one other spot in Nicaragua: the Maderas volcano on Ometepe Island .

When Spanish colonists first saw Lake Nicaragua, it was so vast, they thought it was a sea. In reality, it is Central America's largest lake at 177 kilometers long with an average width of 57 kilometers. It is home to more than 365 small islets and larger islands, like Ometepe, with two volcanos, in the lake's center.

Another interesting fact about Lake Nicaragua is that it is the only freshwater lake to have ocean animals, including sharks. It is believed the lake was once a sea bay, but then a volcano erupted, trapping marine life and turning it into an inland lake. Over the millennia, the marine life has adapted to living in freshwater.

In southwest Nicaragua, on the Emerald Coast, near the border with Costa Rica , San Juan del Sur is a vibrant town with a large expat community and an excellent surf beach just 20 miles to the north. The town itself is filled with colorful buildings and murals. There is also a large Christ of the Mercy statue perched on a hill overlooking the city below that is worth a hike up for sunset, especially to experience the views.

And then there is the long gold-sand meets Pacific Ocean Playa Maderas beach, which is also lined with small hotels and eco-resorts. It picks up most of the swells that hit Nicaragua and is best approached at medium to high tide.

The beach is also known for its long, drawn-out sunsets with an amazing display of bright, shifting colors.

Discovered accidentally in 2004 by two Czech geologists, Somoto Canyon National Monument is now a protected gorge in northern Nicaragua about 2.5 hours from Leon .

The scenery here is stunningly beautiful, and this is also another perfect destination for adrenaline addicts. You can book four- or six-hour descents of the narrowest section of the gorge. Both trips require rock scrambles, floating down rapids in inner tubes, and jumping from high cliffs into deep pools. The six-hour trip also includes rappelling down cliffs into bat-filled caves. Either way this is an adventurous day trip.

Isla Ometepe is in Lake Nicaragua, the largest freshwater lake in Central America and also home to the Islets of Granada. The island has not one but two volcanos, both of which can be climbed.

Maderas is the volcano in the south of Ometepe, and it is less active than the Concepcion volcano in the north. The hike to the summit of Maderas takes you to a beautiful crater lake. There is also an impressive waterfall at the base that cascades for almost 50 meters down a sheer rock wall.

The island is also popular for horseback riding, mountain biking, or kayaking the Istian River that runs through it. You can also just laze on the white sands of Santo Domingo beach.

Second only in size to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, Nicaragua's Bosawas Biosphere Reserve was established in 1997 to protect the biodiversity found in this northern corner of the country. The reserve also protects the free flow of species between Mexico and Central America.

A birder's paradise, you'll find that 600 of the 790 bird species that call Nicaragua home live in this reserve. You'll also find plenty of mammals, including jaguars, Baird's tapir, and spider monkeys in the trees and on the forest floor.

Colorful Granada is a wonderful old city to wander for an afternoon. It is home to some of the best-preserved architecture in Nicaragua, including a number of buildings and churches constructed in Spanish colonial style.

Here, you'll find Convento San Francisco , which is one of the oldest churches in Central America. It has an unmissable Tiffany blue facade, and inside, you'll find one of Nicaragua's top museums, dedicated to the country's pre-Columbian people. There are also restaurants, shops, and coffee houses with sidewalk seating around its main square.

Granada is a popular base for exploring the islands in Lake Nicaragua on whose shore it sits.

From cooling off under icy waterfalls to horseback riding or trekking in search of some 300 species of birds that live here, including the bright queen quetzal, there is plenty to keep you naturally entertained at Reserva Natural Miraflor.

This reserve in Nicaragua's north covers three climate zones, including dry forest and cloud forest. Visitors can also participate in community tourism projects here at coffee cooperatives. These give you a chance to spend a night with a local family and get a glimpse into their culture and way of life.

Home to Nicaragua's National University , Leon is considered the country's intellectual capital. The city is also known for its cathedral, art museums, and growing food scene. Leon's cathedral is Central America's biggest, and merges Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

Just a few blocks north of the cathedral is Iglesia de la Recoleccion , which is a beautiful church dating back to 1786. It is built in Mexican-style Baroque design and features a distinct, deep-yellow facade with cream trim. While strolling the walkable downtown, also keep an eye out for murals and graffiti dating back to the political war of the 1980s.

You can also visit the 16th-century ruins of Leon Viejo (old Leon), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the first Spanish colonial settlements in the Americas. These ruins are just a short drive from Leon.

Less than a 30-minute drive from Granada , Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve is a giant volcanic crater lake that was created more than 20,000 years ago when the original volcano's cone imploded.

The lake is about 198 meters deep and is so big that when the wind blows hard enough, there are waves big enough to windsurf. The lake is also fed by volcanic fumaroles that keep the water warm and slightly salty.

Activities include kayaking, swimming, scuba diving to explore thermal vents, or just chilling at one of the restaurants on the beachfront.

If you are in the market for ceramic handicrafts , whether in the form of ornately decorated vases or functional cookware, pay a visit to the village of San Juan de Oriente. Located about 45 kilometers from Managua, it is known as the "town of potters," and the artisans here have been creating beautiful pieces out of clay since before the Spanish conquistadors invaded the region.

Upon entering the small town, which has a beautiful setting overlooking the Masaya lagoon, you'll see dozens of pottery shops . The majority of people here earn their living creating colorful works of art and are very friendly and happy to share their work and the stories behind it with travelers. Most of the shops are family-run affairs, with one member in charge of the carving and design, another overseeing the kiln, and a third polishing the finished product.

Some names to look for while shopping include Gregorio Bracamonte's recreations of pre-Columbian jaguar vases (the artist passed away in 2019, making his work even more valuable today); and Helio Guitérrez, who is known for his bold geometric designs.

For working kitchenware that includes intricate designs, visit Miguel Angel Calero's shop. His pieces are also known for their highly polished, glass-like shine, and he has been called a local Michelangelo.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Central America: This part of the world offers many great adventures and intriguing destinations. To the south of Nicaragua, Cost Rica is fill with natural attractions, beaches, and incredible opportunities to see wildlife. Also worth checking out in Central America are the sights of Guatemala . Lakes, volcanoes, culture, and history make this a country worth working into your itinerary.

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Travel Advisory January 11, 2024

Nicaragua - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:

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

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

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

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

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U.S. Embassy Managua

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

Email:   [email protected]

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

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety and Security

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  

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

The U.S. Embassy can:  

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

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

Coastal Disputes: Be aware of the following border disputes:  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Students: See our Students Abroad page.    

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .  

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

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

 The following diseases are prevalent:  

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

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

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

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

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

Further health information:   

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

COVID-19 Testing Information:   

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

COVID-19 Vaccine Information:   

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

Covid-19 Medical Evacuation:   

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

LOCAL RESOURCES:     

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

Travel and Transportation

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

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

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

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

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

All drivers must carry:  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For additional travel information

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

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

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The Americas

A rare look into nicaragua, a country that shuts itself off to journalists.

Ayesha Rascoe

Eyder Peralta

We take a look inside Nicaragua — a country where repression is the norm, making it one of the hardest countries to report from. Content advisory: The piece includes the sounds of fireworks.

A couple in a motorcycle ride in front of a billboard with a picture of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega at Ministry of Family Economy in Managua, Nicaragua. Getty Images/Getty Images hide caption

A couple in a motorcycle ride in front of a billboard with a picture of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega at Ministry of Family Economy in Managua, Nicaragua.

Copyright © 2023 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

• Latin America
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Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

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 Travel News: March 2020

As we follow UK Government regulations and WHO advice, and fully support the UNWTO’s  Stay Home Today, #TravelTomorrow campaign , we’re also working with our friends in the travel industry and media to get through these difficult times. In this spirit, we wish to invite all travel-lovers to immerse themselves in visual, audio, audiovisual and written experiences, through virtual and armchair travel, to discover our country, our unique nature, culture and gastronomy, to inspire all the senses and bring a little bit of Nicaragua to their home, to dream and plan today so they can visit when the time is right.

Nicaragua, known as the Land of Lakes and Volcanoes.

Nicaragua has 23 of these (19 of which are active, the second highest number in the world), and provides unparalleled opportunities for immersive virtual travel experiences, including a journey into Masaya, the world’s only digital volcano,  created by General Electric with the Government of Nicaragua, which takes you into the depths of this spectacular crater and lava lake (one of the only  five in the world). There’s also breathtaking audiovisual content of Cerro Negro, Momotombo, Mombacho, and many more volcanoes, which we invite the trade and media to share with customers and readers.

#WorldEarthDay has a special meaning for Nicaragua, a land of incredible natural wonders  home to 7% of the world’s biodiversity,  much of it endemic to our natural territory, including a plethora of beautiful species of birds, mammals, primates, fish, reptiles, insects and flora, which are fundamental to our way of life and the sustainable development of our tourism industry. It is also our joint responsibility to safeguard this natural patrimony of humanity, vital to all life on Earth, including humans, especially the indigenous communities whose land, language and autonomy rights are protected by law in Nicaragua, and who are socially engaged to welcoming responsible travellers whilst protecting their ways of life, in harmony with Nature.

“Green is the perfect adjective for Nicaragua. Not only does it apply to the country’s lush jungles but also to the raft of responsible measures Nicaragua has introduced to make sure that its areas of pristine and natural beauty stay protected for generations to come.”

A group of amazing scientists at General Electric have put together an immersive online volcanic expedition, in partnership with Qwake and the Nicaraguan Government, using ziplines, body cameras, drone and other footage, which allows amazing views deep into the volcano and fascinating insights into the nature of volcanoes and their vital importance in forming our planet – as well as the need to better understand and predict their activity to save lives and protect the world from the potential consequences of major eruptions – which this project is a milestone towards achieving.

If that whetted your appetite, this video from Good Morning America, in partnership with National Geographic, also provides a fantastic and bite-sized look at the awe-inspiring natural beauty and power of Masaya, as well as the precautions which should be taken, as part of its Extraordinary Earth series, leading up to World Earth Day on April 22nd, which featured extensive coverage of Nicaragua.

Its last eruption in 1999 left its slopes covered in ash and therefore ideal for exciting volcano boarding – which you can  experience virtually in  this video filmed in first person via GoPro ,  which also includes great shots of the beautiful drive there and trek up. The lack of any trees  or vegetation due to the eruption also makes a for a stunning and stark sight, and allows for breathtaking views, including of the other volcanos in the same chain, including Telica and San Cristobal. There are also opportunities for Canopy, with the required equipment available to hire at the Cerro Negro Visitor Centre.

Momotombo Volcano

Another must watch for those fascinated with the primordial power of volcanoes is this video of the eruption in 2015 of Momotombo,  a symmetrical stratovolcano overlooking Lake Managua. There are many other videos available of this spectacular event. Momotombo is an enduring cultural as well as natural icon, and was immortalised in the  eponymous poem  (in Spanish) by Rubén Darío, Nicaragua’s national poet and the Father of Modernism in the Spanish Language. Through its activity, the volcano has even “given birth” to an island at its base, officially called Isla de Momotombo but often known affectionately as “The Child”.

“This looming 1345m volcano is the defining feature of the Granada skyline. It has thriving rural communities, coffee farms and cooperatives along its foothills, and the volcano’s slopes, covered in ferns and cloud forest, are home to howler monkeys, dozens of bird species, and many of Nicaragua’s shy mammals, including the jaguarundi.” 

This video also gives a great feel of the joyful experience of visiting Nicaragua in general, and of a trip to Mombacho and its Nature Reserve, including the lush surrounding areas and incredible views.

Somoto Canyon, in the far north of the country, rediscovered only in 2004, is a spectacular and ancient canyon carved into the rugged surrounding hill-country by the Coco River (the longest in Central America),  is ideal for rafting, hiking, swimming, climbing, rappelling and horseback riding. This video gives an idea of the mix of beauty, tranquility and adventure which awaits visitors.  A designated national monument, the canyon, whose imposing walls range from 120-150 metres high, and its surrounding areas offer amazing opportunities to feel like you are discovering it for the first time, away from human contact and surrounded on all sides by unspoiled nature. Rock formations disturb the calm waters of the Coco, creating mini “oases” where small plants and fish flourish, and at its most narrow points, the walls of the canyon are only 5 metres apart.

The technology that helps keep sea turtles thriving in Nicaragua l GMA

A  video  feature on the fascinating facts and unique beauty of sea turtles and their birthing areas along Nicaragua’s Pacific Coast,  and the wonderful efforts, supported by Nicaraguan Government policy, by public and private scientists and individuals to preserve the habitats and survival rates of these incredible creatures in the face of global threats of climate change, pollution and poachers. was also included wonderful team at Good Morning America and National Geographic also included in their special series. Highly recommended to watch and share with people who may be using this time of reduced travel to reflect on what is important and plan their next big trip.

How climate change affects coffee bean production in Nicaragua l GMA

Sustainable Nicaragua-based coffee producers from the Gaia co-operative were featured in the final of the video trilogy on Nicaragua by Good Morning America and National Geographic about the effects of climate change on this beloved produce and the communities who depend on it in a thought-provoking reminder of the fragility of our beautiful planet, and the responsibility of all of us to protect it. Nicaragua is a great destination for sustainable travel, and many options are available for volunteering or ethical tours to help agricultural producers, wildlife or other valuable projects. For more information for yourself, media enquiries or for trade thinking of selling these holidays, please reply to this email and specify any particular areas of interest.

Cacao harvest in Nicaragua (Chocolate Momotombo)

While planning these trips and enjoying fantastic content about beautiful and unique Nicaragua, what better way to relax than tantalising the senses with chocolate from the finest Nicaraguan cocoa? This video from showing the cocoa harvest for Nicaraguan brand Momtombo, set to joyful folk music, is a great introduction to the topic, while Ingemann Fine Cocoa also have fantastic educational content taking you to the hear of the sustainable and ethical production of their world-leading Nicaraguan chocolate. Furthermore, the Lonely Planet Global Chocolate Tour features Nicaragua, renowned worlldwide for the purity and quality of its cocoa, and gives an insight into the people, passion and ancient Pre-Columbian history contained in each delicious bite.

In continuation of the promotional campaign by the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism (INTUR) with Wanderlust, the beginning of which mentioned in  last month’s newsletter , the world renowned travel magazine now has a  Nicaragua hub  live and regularly updated, which is  promoted on the homepage  and social media, and includes three articles published in the past month, including  Three great ways to connect with the local culture in Nicaragua ,  Why your next trip to the Caribbean should be to Nicaragua  and  Six great ways to get back to nature in Nicaragua . In this way, together with Wanderlust, INTUR seeks to inspire travellers from the UK and beyond to dream of our unique and beautiful and to use this time plan ahead for their next big trip.

Deputy Head of Mission Ricardo Carioni

Deputy Head of Mission Ricardo Carioni contributed to the Social With Media e-seminar organised by Travel Connect,  where he gave an update on the COVID-19 situation in Nicaragua, the response of the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism to maintain engagement with the UK media and trade, and our country’s internationally recognised actions to combat the global pandemic, with solidarity, multilateral and bilateral co-operation. The Seminar had 100 guests from the travel industry, with Food and Travel, The Times and others. The Embassy also attended E-Seminars with the Travel Editors of The Telegraph, Metro, The Sun, The Independent, Wanderlust, National Geographic, Travel Trade Gazette and many others, to learn about the requirements of the travel media in the current climate, including concepts such as Armchair Travel, Virtual Travel, long-term travel planning and more.

Nicaragua, through the Central American Tourism Agency (CATA) reaffirmed its commitment to the UK market,  emphasising that it supports the “Stay At Home” campaign. The Agency is preparing a series of inspirational videos to be supported by press releases, newsletters and digital content focussing on gastronomy, culture, cinema, eco-tourism and more. It is also organising webinars with the Federation of Chambers of Tourism of Central America (FEDECATUR), and a Plan for the Mitigation and Recovery for the tourism sector. CATA, which is relaunching its brand, promoting new products and consolidating technological tools, is now represented by Taylor Made PR in the UK.

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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

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

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

Nicaragua Safety Tips for Travelling Smooth

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

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

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

Travelling to Nicaragua Alone – Tips and Pointers

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

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

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

Travelling to Nicaragua as a Woman – Tips and Pointers

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

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

Is Nicaragua safe to travel for families?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Uber safe in Nicaragua?

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

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

Are taxis safe in Nicaragua?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is public transportation in Nicaragua safe?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is the food in Nicaragua safe?

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

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

Eating Safety in Nicaragua

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

Can you drink the water in Nicaragua?

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

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

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

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

Is Nicaragua safe to live?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Nicaragua?

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

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

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

Is Nicaragua LGBTQ+ friendly? 

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

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

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

Is Nicaragua safer than Costa Rica?

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

What should you avoid in Nicaragua?

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

Is San Juan del Sur safe in Nicaragua?

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

Is Nicaragua safe for tourists?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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Apogeo Guest House: Inside Nicaragua’s Unique Boutique Hotel Catering To LGBTQIA+ & Travelers Of Color

V acations are meant for relaxation and rejuvenation. However, this isn’t always easy for travelers of color and LGBTQIA2S travelers when safety and how they will be treated are valid concerns.  Apogeo Collective takes this worry away.

Located in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua—just off the Pacific coast—Apogeo Collective is a unique boutique hospitality experience. Apogeo Guest House is the first of its kind in Nicaragua. The property aims to center the hospitality experience of LGBTQIA2S+ and travelers of color. Co-founders Sara Elise and Amber Drew were inspired to create the guest house by their own personal experiences.

“As avid travelers, and as QTBIPOC, we quite often have to make serious considerations when choosing a travel destination,” the co-founders tell Travel Noire. “[We ask] can we be physically affectionate in public? Will hotel staff or guests be prejudiced towards us because we’re people of color? Will there be anyone at the hotel that looks like us or loves like us?”

Elise and Drew say these are questions travelers don’t ask unless they’re a person of color, identify as gender non-conforming, disabled, on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, or an ally.

“We founded Apogeo Collective to create spaces globally for our communities where we don’t have to ask ourselves these questions,” Drew and Elise add. [This is a space] to be open and expand in our creativity and wellness—all while feeling held, healthy, safe, and centered. It’s a space where we can cultivate joy, balance, rejuvenation, and stability. It’s a space for us to play.”

In an interview with Travel Noire, the co-founders discuss what guests can do during a stay. expect

Travel Noire: What makes the stay at Apogeo so unique?

Drew and Elise: We run an elevated, eco-luxury hotel concept space where each visitor is treated with respect and care. We believe in radical hospitality. Prior to each guest’s arrival— we learn about their pronouns, accessibility needs, dietary needs, and desires for their trip. We encourage and help our guests to create a stay tailored specifically to what they may be needing at that moment— whether it is rest and rejuvenation, play and exploration, turning inward, making new connections, or a mix of it all. 

Travel Noire:  What can guests expect during their stay at Apogeo Guest House? 

Drew and Elise: Outside of the energetic considerations and elevated eco-luxury design aesthetic— clean lines and soft linen amongst poured concrete, cowhide, greenery, custom wood furniture, and natural fiber rugs— guests can expect to be cared for. 

During [the] active season, guests can also enjoy on-site activities, workshop offerings, [and] delicious food and beverage, room, and pool service menu.

We often hear, “Wow! This is so much more than what I expected,” as guests are delighted at their immersion into the space. Apogeo Guest House is a carefully cultivated container that centers our guests’ holistic experience. 

Travel Noire: Can you explain more about how your property centers LGBTQIA2S+ and POC travelers? 

Drew and Elise: From smaller eco-luxury amenities like whipped shea butter and [multicultural] hair products to day trips developed and run by a member of the LGBTQIAS+ BIPOC community, we think about all aspects of our guests’ experience to work to create energetic ease and flow through each aspect of our offerings. 

Unless you’re a person of color, are gender non-conforming, identify on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, or are our ally— it’s likely that you have never had to make identify-focused considerations when choosing a place to stay while traveling.

Apogeo Collective is a space where we cultivate joy, balance, rejuvenation, and stability. It’s a space to be affectionate with your partner, have your top surgery scars out, [or] untuck by the pool. [You can] express your gender in whatever means feels most comfortable and not worry about an external gaze. 

Travel Noire:  Is there anything else r eaders should know ? 

Drew and Elise: One of the main challenges we’ve faced in creating a project for our community is convincing our community, which has been marginalized and systematically oppressed for so long, that they deserve to feel good, be well, and rest and pleasure. But you do! We all do! 

So, for your next trip, try something new and elevate things a bit instead of going somewhere basic and staying at a mainstream hotel. Stay at a space like Apogeo Guest House, dedicated to creating expansive travel opportunities for our communities. Support the spaces you believe in, the ones you want to see thrive. Take that trip you’ve been eyeing for so long—you deserve it!

This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

Home » Travel Nicaragua, Book Hotels in Nicaragua, Flights to Nicaragua » Tourism in Nicaragua, Tours, Travel

Tourism in Nicaragua, Tours, Travel

Nicaragua is packed with marvelous attractions and features that make for a brilliant tourism industry. White sandy beaches, tropical forests, one of the biggest lakes in Latin America and stunning colonial cities all contribute to a great tourism experience. No wonder Nicaragua tourism is growing every year!

Nicaragua tourism excels because of its amazing diversity. Naturally, warm sea water all year round makes for great beaches holidays in Nicaragua. The stunning architecture of Nicaraguan cities will captivate old and young. Lakes, lagoons, forests and islands make Nicaragua into a paradise for outdoor lovers.

The Great Lake of Nicaragua covers a massive 8000 sq km. This aquatic marvel hosts over 500 tropical inlets and provides shelter for a large variety of birds and other animals. The Great Lake of Nicaragua is a prime tourism spot for watching birds and other wildlife.

The Nicaragua tourism destinations that hold the most potential are beyond a doubt Ometepe Island, Padres Ramos Estuary and the Volcanoes Route. Corn Island, just off Nicaragua forms part of the Caribbean Islands and offers sailing, scuba and sport fishing opportunities.

By the year 2000, tourism in Nicaragua was generating $250 million per year and is thus the fourth biggest source of income for the country of Nicaragua. So make a contribution to this excellent source of revenue for this developing country by enjoying a holiday in Nicaragua .

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