NICARAGUA

Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America, is a land of dramatic volcanoes, vast lakes, and lush rainforests. Its rich history is marked by indigenous civilizations, Spanish colonization, and periods of political upheaval, including the Sandinista Revolution. Known as the “land of lakes and volcanoes,” it offers incredible biodiversity and a unique blend of vibrant Latin American culture.

Region: Central America

Capital: Managua

Official Language: Spanish

Level of Travel Safety: Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to civil unrest and crime. Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, is common. Be vigilant, especially outside of tourist areas, and avoid protests or political gatherings.

A map of Central America with Nicaragua highlighted.

Why Visit Nicaragua?

Volcano Adventures: Hike Cerro Negro, peer into Masaya’s lava-filled crater, or sandboard down a volcanic slope.

Colonial Charm: Wander cobblestone streets and pastel churches in Granada and León—two of Central America’s most historic cities.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Beaches: Surf and relax on San Juan del Sur’s Pacific coast or discover remote Corn Islands in the Caribbean.

A sandy beach with palm trees and a light blue boat.

Untouched Nature: Kayak through Isletas de Granada, trek cloud forests in Matagalpa, or explore Indio Maíz Biological Reserve.

Cultural Soul: Experience local festivals, traditional crafts, and poetry readings—Rubén Darío’s legacy lives on.

Budget Paradise: Enjoy stunning nature, rich culture, and friendly people without breaking the bank.

An aerial view of a volcano with smoke emanating from its crater.

Essential Trip Information

Requirements vary by nationality. Check official visa information via Nicaragua’s immigration portal or your government’s travel advisory website.

Many visitors (e.g., EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.

Tourist card required upon arrival (approx. US$10, payable in cash).

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

You may be asked to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.

Nicaragua uses the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO), but US Dollars (US$) are widely accepted.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange some US$ for Córdoba at local banks.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in larger towns (BAC, Banpro). Credit cards accepted in mid-to-high-end establishments.

  • What to Avoid: Street money changers and paying in US$ where Córdoba prices are more favorable.

Spanish is the official language.

English is spoken on the Caribbean coast and in tourist hubs.

Helpful Phrases

  • “¿Dónde está…?” (Where is…?)

  • “Gracias” (Thank you)

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?)

Nicaragua is generally safe for travelers, especially in rural and tourist areas.

Use caution in Managua at night, and avoid isolated areas.

Watch for pickpocketing in crowded markets or buses.

Emergency number: 118 (police), 128 (ambulance)

No mandatory vaccinations, but typhoid and hepatitis A are recommended.

Tap water is not safe—always drink bottled or filtered water.

Travel insurance is strongly advised.

Pharmacies are common in towns.

Local Buses: Very cheap, but cramped and slow.

Inter-city Shuttles: Reliable and efficient (e.g., from León to Granada).

Taxis: Affordable, but agree on a fare beforehand.

Car Rentals: Available, but roads can be rough—4WD recommended for rural areas.

Nicaragua is budget-friendly, especially compared to neighboring Costa Rica.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels or guesthouses (US$10–25/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels (US$40–80/night)

  • Luxury: High-end resorts or eco-lodges (US$120+/night)

Food

  • Street food/markets: US$2–5

  • Local restaurants: US$6–15/person

  • Fine dining: US$25+/person

Drinks

  • Beer (Toña or Victoria): US$1–2

  • Cocktails: US$3–7

Transportation

  • Local buses (“chicken buses”): US$0.25–1

  • Shuttle services between cities: US$10–25

  • Taxis: US$1–5 within towns

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at comedor-style local restaurants.

  • Use public transport or shared shuttles between major towns.

  • Choose eco-lodges or family-run hostels for affordable stays with charm.

Explore Nicaragua

This enchanting colonial city, located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua in the southwestern part of the country, is famed for its pastel-colored buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant plazas. Explore its rich history and enjoy boat tours to the nearby Isletas.

Situated in western Nicaragua, León is a city bursting with revolutionary history and artistic expression. It’s home to Central America’s largest cathedral, the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, and boasts a lively atmosphere with murals and street art reflecting its political past.

A truly unique island formed by two majestic volcanoes (Concepción and Maderas) rising from Lake Nicaragua. Located in the southwest, this island offers diverse activities from hiking to waterfalls and volcanoes, kayaking, and exploring ancient petroglyphs.

A popular surf town on the Pacific coast, in the southwest of the country. San Juan del Sur offers stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed atmosphere, attracting surfers and travelers looking for sun and waves. Don’t miss the Christ of the Mercy statue.

Witness the mesmerizing glow of an active lava lake at night at Masaya Volcano, located just southeast of Managua. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can stand at the rim of an active volcano and see bubbling magma.

These idyllic Caribbean islands, off Nicaragua’s eastern coast, are a haven for snorkeling, diving, and simply unwinding on pristine white-sand beaches. Expect a slower pace of life, fresh seafood, and turquoise waters.

A serene volcanic crater lake, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Nestled between Granada and Masaya in the Pacific lowlands, it’s a tranquil escape with crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.

For the adventurous, Cerro Negro, an active volcano near León in the west, is famous for volcano boarding. Hike up its black slopes and then slide down on a wooden board – a thrilling and unique experience!

Located in the northern highlands, near the border with Honduras, Somoto Canyon is a geological wonder offering exciting canyoning and river tubing adventures. Navigate through its narrow gorges, swim in natural pools, and marvel at the towering rock formations.

This historic river, forming part of Nicaragua’s southern border with Costa Rica, is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore its dense rainforests, spot diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Lush, Green Landscapes
  • Afternoon Showers (often leaving mornings clear)
  • Authentic Local Vibe

Main Drawbacks:

  • Frequent Rainfalls
  • Higher Humidity
  • Potential for Hurricanes (especially August-October)
  • Some Roads May Be Impassable
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (especially prolonged ones)

Key Regions:

  • Caribbean Coast (Corn Islands, Bluefields): Experience the true Caribbean pace, though rougher seas are possible.
  • Río San Juan: River travel can be affected by rain, but the wildlife is often vibrant.
  • Northern Highlands (Matagalpa, Estelí): Cooler temperatures, though misty and wet, great for coffee tours.
  • Pacific Coast (San Juan del Sur, Popoyo): Surfing can still be good, but beach days might be interrupted.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (less rain, comfortable temperatures)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (e.g., beginning of dry season celebrations)
  • Beautiful Landscapes (still green from recent rains in November, or clear skies in April)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Prices Start to Rise (approaching peak in April, moving away from low in November)
  • Can Still Be Humid (especially in November as the rain subsides)
  • April can be very hot (especially Pacific lowlands)

Key Regions:

  • Granada & León: Perfect for exploring colonial cities with pleasant weather.
  • Isla de Ometepe: Excellent conditions for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Pacific Beaches (San Juan del Sur, Popoyo): Good for surfing and relaxation before or after the main rush.
  • Masaya Volcano: Clear views of the lava in the evenings.
  • Dry Season (December – March)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A handshake or light cheek kiss (among women) is common.

Haggling: Acceptable in markets, but keep it friendly.

Tipping:

  • Restaurants: 10% is customary (check if service is included).
  • Tour guides: US$5–10/day for good service.

Dress Code:

  • Conservative in rural areas (avoid short shorts/tank tops).
  • Beachwear is fine in tourist zones.

Respect Nature: Don’t litter—Nicaragua takes eco-tourism seriously.

Accommodation:

  • Hostels (US$10–30), hotels (US$40–120), luxury stays (US$200+).

Food:

  • Street eats or comedores (US$2–6), restaurant meals (US$10–20), fine dining (US$40+).

Transport:

  • Chicken bus (US$1–5), shuttles (US$10–25), taxi (US$1–10 local).

Activities:

  • Volcano boarding (US$25), guided hikes (US$15–40), surf lessons (US$20–35).
  • Museums and churches often free or < US$3.

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$40–70 (hostel, local food, public transit).

  • Mid-range: US$100–180 (hotel, excursions, private shuttles).

  • Luxury: US$250+ (boutique stays, private guides, upscale dining).

Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants—speed varies.

SIM Cards: Claro and Tigo offer prepaid SIMs (US$5–10) with data plans (US$1/GB approx).

eSIMs: Available via Airalo or Nomad for short-term travelers.

Recommended for: Emergency healthcare, theft, and trip cancellations—especially during rainy season.

Medical Care: Private clinics in Managua are decent; rural areas have limited access.

Adventure Travel: Confirm coverage for volcano hiking, surfing, or scuba diving.

Budget:

  • Hostels (US$8–15/bed) in León, Granada, and San Juan del Sur.
  • Guesthouses (US$20–40/room) with local charm.

Mid-Range:

  • Boutique hotels (US$50–100/night) in colonial cities.
  • Beachfront cabañas (US$60–120) in Playa Maderas or Little Corn Island.

Luxury:

  • Eco-resorts (US$150–300+) like Mukul or Jicaro Island Lodge.

Unique Stays:

  • Treehouses (e.g., Morgan’s Rock) or volcano-side lodges (e.g., Quetzaltrekkers).

Tip: Book ahead in dry season—especially for beach towns and Ometepe.

Buses:

  • Cheapest option (US$1–5 for intercity routes).
  • Chicken buses (colorful old school buses) are slow but authentic.
  • Express shuttles (US$10–25) connect tourist hubs (e.g., Granada to León).

Taxis:

  • Negotiate fares before riding (US$2–5 for short trips in cities).
  • Official taxis (red plates) are safer than unofficial ones.

Car Rentals:

  • Only recommended for experienced drivers (US$30–50/day).
  • Roads can be rough; 4×4 needed for remote areas like Ometepe.

Domestic Flights:

  • Limited routes (e.g., Managua to Corn Islands, ~US$150 round-trip).

Biking:

  • Popular in cities like Granada and San Juan del Sur (rentals ~US$5–10/day).

Tip: Shuttles are the best balance of comfort and affordability for tourists.

Handy Tips

Nicaragua uses the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO), but US Dollars (US$) are widely accepted across the country—especially in tourist areas.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid exchanging money at Managua Airport; use ATMs or banks in towns for better exchange rates. Most ATMs dispense both Córdoba and US Dollars.

  • Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. American Express is less widely accepted. Always carry small bills (preferably US$1, $5, or C$100 notes) for markets, taxis, and rural areas.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants/Bars: 10% is standard; check if a service charge is already included.

    • Taxis/Rideshares: Not expected, but rounding up is appreciated.

    • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–3/day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for half or full-day group tours.

Spanish is the official language of Nicaragua. In tourist hubs like Granada or San Juan del Sur, basic English is understood.

  • Handy phrases:

    • “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?)

    • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much is it?)

    • “¿Habla inglés?” (Do you speak English?)

Pro Tip: Learn a few basic Spanish phrases—it goes a long way in earning friendliness from locals, especially in smaller towns and rural communities.

Nicaragua is generally safe for travelers, but exercise standard precautions—especially in crowded markets or on buses.

Avoid walking alone after dark in less populated areas.

Always keep copies of your passport and travel insurance.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 118: National Police
  • 128: Ambulance
  • 101: Fire
  • Keep the number of your country’s local embassy in Managua saved on your phone.

Nicaragua uses 120V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs, same as in the U.S.

  • If you’re coming from North America, no adapter is needed.

  • European and other visitors will need a plug adapter, but voltage converters are rarely required for modern electronics.

Tap water is not consistently safe to drink, especially outside major cities.

  • Stick to bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available.

  • Ask for “agua embotellada” in restaurants, and avoid ice in remote areas unless you’re sure it’s filtered.

On public holidays, banks, government offices, and many shops close. Expect crowded beaches and buses.

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • Holy Week (March/April): Semana Santa (expect closures and packed tourist spots)

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 14–15 Sep: Independence Day Celebrations

  • 8 Dec: La Purísima (religious celebration)

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 31 Dec: New Year’s Eve

Note: Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a major national holiday—plan accommodations and transport well in advance.

Shops: Open 08:00–18:00 (some close for lunch). Malls may stay open until 20:00.

Pharmacies: Many are open 24/7 in cities (look for Farmacia Kielsa or Farmacia Saba).

Markets: Best early in the morning. Popular spots include Masaya Market and Granada’s Central Market.

Gallo Pinto: Nicaragua’s beloved rice-and-beans dish, eaten at any time of day.

Nacatamal: A massive tamale wrapped in banana leaves—filled with pork, potatoes, and spices.

Vigorón: Boiled yuca topped with pickled cabbage salad and crispy pork rinds (popular in Granada).

Indio Viejo: A thick, savory cornmeal stew with shredded beef, tomatoes, and mint.

Baho: Slow-cooked beef layered with plantains and yuca, steamed for hours.

Quesillo: Soft cheese rolled in a tortilla with cream and onion vinegar (try it in Nagarote).

Tajadas con Queso: Fried green plantain slices topped with fresh white cheese.

Rondón: Caribbean coast coconut stew with fish, crab, and root vegetables.

Rosquillas: Crunchy cheese-corn cookies, great for snacking with coffee.

Cajeta de Coco: Sweet coconut fudge squares, rich with caramelized milk and sugar.

Alcoholic:

  • Flor de Caña Rum: Nicaragua’s iconic aged rum—sip it straight or in a cocktail.

  • Macuá: The national cocktail—rum, guava juice, lemon, and sugar.

  • Toña: Light, crisp local beer—ubiquitous and refreshing.

  • Victoria Frost: Slightly stronger lager than Toña, colder and drier.

  • Pellas Reserva: A smoother premium rum alternative to Flor de Caña.

  • Vino Chileno: While not local, Chilean wines are commonly served in Nicaraguan restaurants.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Pinolillo: Traditional cornmeal and cocoa drink, thick and earthy (served cold).

  • Cacao: Chilled chocolate drink made from fermented cocoa and spices.

  • Chicha de Maíz: Fermented (or non-fermented) corn drink, mildly sweet.

  • Tiste: Corn and cocoa blend served in carved gourds, a pre-Columbian classic.

  • Fresco de Tamarindo: Sweet-sour tamarind juice, often homemade.

Colonial Heritage: Granada and León boast restored cathedrals, museums, and plazas.

Indigenous Influence: Visit the community of Monimbó or explore Matagalpa’s cultural roots.

Revolutionary History: Learn about the Sandinista movement at León’s Museo de la Revolución.

Religious Traditions: Observe Catholic processions during Holy Week and La Purísima in December.

Colorful Festivals: Don’t miss the Fiestas de Santo Domingo in Managua or La Gritería in León.

Poetry: León was home to Rubén Darío, the father of modern Spanish poetry—visit his house museum.

Street Art: Cities like Estelí are full of bold murals depicting history and local pride.

Artisan Villages: San Juan de Oriente is known for pottery; Catarina for ornamental plants and crafts.

Hidden Gem: El Castillo, a jungle town on the San Juan River with a 17th-century Spanish fortress.

Caribbean Vibes: In Bluefields and the Corn Islands, enjoy Creole culture, music, and cuisine.

Granada: Explore colonial streets, take a boat tour of Las Isletas.

Ometepe Island: Hike volcanoes, swim in natural springs, or bike around the twin-volcano island.

San Juan del Sur: Surf, relax on the beach, or join the legendary Sunday Funday pool crawl.

Mombacho Volcano: Zipline or hike through cloud forests and crater viewpoints.

Masaya Volcano: Peer into a glowing active crater—visit at night for dramatic views.

León: Tour the historic cathedral (climb to the roof) and try volcano boarding at Cerro Negro.

Laguna de Apoyo: Swim or kayak in this crater lake between Managua and Granada.

Corn Islands: Fly to the Caribbean for diving, snorkeling, and reggae vibes.

Cultural Shows: Watch folkloric dance in Masaya or music festivals in Managua.

Local Markets: Shop handmade hammocks, pottery, and wood carvings in Masaya or Catarina.

El Social (León): Backpacker-favorite bar with live music and cheap Flor de Caña cocktails.

Café de los Sueños (Granada): Cozy spot for mojitos and sunset terrace views.

Bar Barbaro (Managua): Trendy with Nica rum classics and electronic music.

Nacho Libre (León): Wrestling-themed bar with wild décor and party vibes.

La Calzada (Granada): A street full of open-air bars and cocktails under palm trees.

Republica Beer Garden (Managua): Local craft beers and Nica fusion dishes.

Big Wave Daves (San Juan del Sur): Popular expat hangout with dancing and beer pong.

Miss Grace’s (Little Corn Island): Rasta-infused bar steps from the beach.

Bar Yoyo (Estelí): Great rum selection and political murals inside.

Chinampa (Matagalpa): Local watering hole with great music and cold beer.