Nicaragua

The Land of Lakes
and Legends

Flag of Nicaragua

Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America, is known for its beautiful lakes, active volcanoes, and colonial cities. Its capital, Managua, and charming cities like Granada and León, showcase colorful architecture and rich history. Nicaragua’s diverse landscapes include stunning beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, lush rainforests, and the vast Lake Nicaragua.

Nicaraguan culture reflects indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences, with lively music, dance, and festivals. The cuisine features dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and nacatamales (corn dough stuffed with meat). Nicaragua is a country of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural warmth.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-Central American citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Nicaragua.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Nicaragua (standard requirement for most countries in the region).

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and others can enter Nicaragua with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations like Afghanistan, Cuba, or Haiti must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Nicaragua.

Special Entry Provisions

  • No provisions exist for entry with Schengen, US, or UK visas—visa requirements are based solely on nationality.
  • CA-4 Agreement: Citizens of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras can enter with relaxed border controls under the Central America-4 agreement (passport or ID may suffice).

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Nicaragua using only a valid national ID card (under CA-4 rules):
    • Guatemala
    • El Salvador
    • Honduras
  • All other nationalities require a passport.

Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days. Issued on arrival for visa-exempt countries via a tourist card ($10 USD fee).
  • Residence Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work, study); valid for one year, renewable, and allows application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Work, study, or long-term stays require prior visa approval.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination or testing may apply).
Toll

Driving in Nicaragua

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, Nicaragua has minimal toll roads:

  • Carretera Managua-Masaya: A short toll section near Managua connecting to Masaya.
  • Most roads remain toll-free, but infrastructure projects may introduce new tolls—check updates.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance. For current rates, visit the Ministry of Transport website: https://www.mti.gob.ni/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO) accepted at toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Limited acceptance—carry cash as a backup.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: Not widely implemented; check https://www.mti.gob.ni/ for updates.

Driving in Nicaragua

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 45 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, especially during the rainy season (May-November).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Nicaragua does not currently use a vignette system; tolls are per-use where applicable.
  • Road Safety: Be cautious of potholes, livestock, and pedestrians on rural roads.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS can be unreliable in remote areas—keep an updated physical map.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 118 for emergencies (or 911 in some areas).

Useful Links

Nicaragua Currency

The official currency of Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 Córdoba
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10 Córdoba; 5, 10, 25, 50 centavos
  • Symbol: C$

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and tourist areas.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct Córdoba withdrawals (USD often dispensed too).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small vendors.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments (USD sometimes accepted in tourist zones).

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash (Córdoba or USD) for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Nicaragua website: https://www.bcn.gob.ni/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Nicaragua

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Nicaragua, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication can result in fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing politics (e.g., government or Sandinista history) unless invited.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or government buildings. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 3L total | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access under national law; private properties cannot block shoreline entirely.

Key Resources

Nicaragua Travel Safety

Nicaragua is generally welcoming but requires awareness of crime, health, and road safety. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Nicaragua.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) occurs in tourist areas like Managua or Granada. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon but possible—avoid risky zones (e.g., certain Managua neighborhoods).
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in tourist areas; locals are hospitable. Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to poor road conditions and erratic drivers.
    • Avoid night driving in rural areas.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19.
    • Dengue/Zika: Use insect repellent in tropical areas.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk; highest areas (e.g., near Jinotega) are below 2,000 meters.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Hospital Vivian Pellas in Managua offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities—carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 118 (police, ambulance, fire); 911 in some areas.
  • Police: 120 | Ambulance: 128 | Fire: 115.
  • Tourist Assistance: +505 2255-9330 (INTUR).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural areas—check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for volcano treks (e.g., Cerro Negro).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid political discussions.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor via World Air Quality Index in Managua.

Key Links

Flying to Nicaragua

© 2024-2025 Atlas Guide