Nicaragua is a beautiful Central American country popular with those who enjoy history, culture, and adventure. Traveling to Nicaragua now requires a significant amount of caution. Some may want to delay travel for a while until political unrest and the arbitrary enforcement of laws ends. Others may still want to travel now. However, they should be careful.
Those who plan and are cautious can travel to Nicaragua at less risk.
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Latest safety updates when traveling to Nicaragua
The U.S. State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Nicaragua in December 2022. The advisory cites concerns about arbitrary detention and imprisonment for those the government feels oppose President Ortega.
The advisory also cites the absence of health care and the prevalence of violent crimes, including sexual assault and armed robbery.
The governments of New Zealand, Finland, and Canada also have issued travel advisories for their citizens traveling to Nicaragua.
Common safety concerns when traveling to Nicaragua
Tourists in Nicaragua will face several safety concerns.
Social and Political Upheaval
The country has been experiencing political unrest since 2018. The government is targeting those opposing Ortega or who advocate for democracy. These individuals may face wrongful detention and have their personal property seized. The country’s poor infrastructure also limits the ability of governments to help their citizens in emergencies.
Crime
Poverty is rampant in Nicaragua and is a significant reason crime is prevalent in cities. Violent crime, pickpocketing, purse snatching, and scams are problems, especially in the highly touristy areas of Corn Island, Granada, Manuagua, and San Juan del Sur.
Kidnappers target tourists and ask for high ransoms. Purse snatchers also target tourists in markets, hotels, and on beaches. They will sometimes snatch purses out of cars waiting at stoplights.
Credit card fraud and taxi scams are also widespread. Armed robbery cases occur along the highways, such as Managua-Leon and Tipita-Masaya. Gang violence is prevalent in Jorge Dimitrov, Rene Schick, and Zona Rosa. Prostitutes also sometimes rob people in the Zona Rosa district.
Crime is more prevalent at night. Women traveling alone are particularly at risk for sexual harassment or verbal abuse.
The country’s police force is weak. Tourists should observe their surroundings carefully and keep their belongings close.
Health Concerns
Nicaragua’s health care system is limited, so tourists should make arrangements to travel outside the country if they contract a severe illness. Dengue fever and malaria occur in Nicaragua, and travelers are encouraged to vaccinate against malaria before traveling.
Safety measures to keep in mind when traveling to Nicaragua
Those traveling to Nicaragua should take the following measures to protect their safety.
- Travel in groups, especially female travelers.
- Visit tourist areas in the daytime.
- Avoid leaving valuables exposed and keep these items close to them.
- Use the ATM only inside the bank.
- Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or other expensive items.
- Avoid hitchhiking or taking public transportation.
- Use only authorized taxis.
- Use only reputable tour companies.
- Share the itinerary with family and friends at home and check in with them often.
- Avoid discussing travel plans or hotel locations with strangers.
- If attacked, avoid fighting back.
- Choose to stay in safer areas such as Leon, Granada, and Playa Maderas.
- Avoid areas with political gatherings.
- Keep a low profile.
- Buy travel insurance
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Why visit Nicaragua?
Nicaragua offers many exciting sights. A few reasons to visit Nicaragua are:
- The stunning Spanish architecture and picturesque islets of Granada
- Natural attractions include animal reserves, crater lakes on dormant volcanoes, and the Somoto Canyon National Monument.
- The Masaya Volcano
- Lake Nicaragua and Isla Ometepe
Visiting Nicaragua now requires caution. However, travelers can be safe if they take precautions.
