Risk level

Safety and security

Crime

There are reports of increases in crime in Nicaragua since April 2018. Police forces are limited throughout the country and extremely scarce outside of major urban areas.

Violent crime

Violent crime, including armed robbery and sexual assault, occurs. You should pay particular attention in tourist areas including the Corn Islands, Granada, Managua and San Juan del Sur.

Confrontations between rival gangs of youth have also led to violent incidents in certain neighbourhoods, particularly on the outskirts of Granada and on other urban peripheries.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.

These incidents occur often while drivers are stopped at intersections and while pedestrians are walking on the street. They often involve 2 people on a motorcycle, in which the passenger grabs the bag while the driver keeps driving.

Crime tends to increase during holiday seasons such as Christmas and Easter.

• Remain alert when walking in markets, near the old cathedral and the Tica bus terminal in Managua, at public transportation terminals and in poorer areas
• Restrict travel to tourist areas and to daylight hours
• Travel in groups whenever possible
• Avoid hitchhiking
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Carry a photocopy of the identification page of your passport and a photocopy of the page that was stamped by local immigration authorities at the point of entry
• Don’t carry large amounts of money, especially while travelling on buses
• Use only hotels that provide adequate security

Kidnapping

“Express” kidnappings have occurred, especially in areas where violent crime is prominent. In these abductions, criminals ask for small, immediate ransoms. The kidnappers usually force their victims to withdraw funds from an ATM or to arrange for family or friends to pay the ransom. This ploy is often used by criminal taxi drivers, who pick up the victim and then stop to pick up associates.

• Use only taxis that have red stripes on the top and bottom of the licence plate and the circular “Cooperativa” logo on the door
• Book your ride in advance, when possible
• Avoid sharing a taxi with strangers
• If attacked, don’t resist, as criminals often carry weapons and may become violent

Fraudulent tour guides

Tourists have been robbed by fraudulent tour guides offering a tour on the island of Ometepe.

Consult hotel staff and local authorities for information on reputable tour guides.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Local authorities may not regard harassment as unlawful unless physical contact or explicit threats are made.

Safe-travel guide for women

Demonstrations

The political situation remains unpredictable in Nicaragua. Demonstrations, civil unrest and outbreaks of violence occur regularly, particularly in Managua.

This can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Access to the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport and to the area of Carretera a Masaya in Managua may be affected.

According to the Nicaraguan constitution, it is illegal for foreigners to participate in Nicaraguan political affairs, including demonstrations and protests. Nicaraguan authorities could also consider politically related posts on social media as a violation of this law. Participation may result in detention and/or deportation.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Warning signs, lifeguards and rescue equipment are often lacking.

Drownings occur regularly.

Water safety abroad

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Except for the Pan-American Highway, most roads lack shoulders and are narrow, potholed and poorly lit. Road signs are usually non-existent. Most streets are unnamed. Detours are common but often unmarked. Livestock may be on the streets and highways. Therefore, driving after dark is very dangerous.

Vehicles are poorly maintained. Drivers do not respect traffic laws and can be reckless. Drinking and driving is prevalent.

Roadside assistance is not available. Cell phone coverage outside urban areas can be lacking, particularly in mountainous areas.

Despite regular security patrols by the Nicaraguan army and police, armed banditry and carjackings occur in areas near Bonanza, La Rosita and Siuna (known as the mining triangle) in northeastern Nicaragua. Carjackings have also been reported between Managua and Puerto Cabezas.

• Only travel overland to Honduras on Nicaraguan highways with official border crossings: El Espino, Guasaule and Las Manos
• Restrict road travel in these areas to daylight hours
• Travel in convoys of at least two vehicles
• Keep your car windows closed and doors locked when driving through crowded areas
• Avoid hitchhiking

Public transportation

Public transportation is unreliable and often overcrowded. Vehicles are generally in poor condition.

Buses

Pickpockets often target tourists in public buses. Travellers have also been assaulted when getting off a bus.

• Avoid conversations with friendly strangers
• Don’t reveal your intended destination
• Don’t share a cab at the end of a bus ride
• Be cautious of any advice or shortcut that could convince you to get off a bus earlier than planned

Taxis

Many taxis are in poor condition and lack safety features such as seat belts.

It is common in Nicaragua for taxi drivers to pick up other passengers, unless it has been agreed upon that you want a private ride.

Unauthorized taxi drivers have robbed passengers.

• Use only taxis that have red stripes on the top and bottom of the licence plate and the circular “Cooperativa” logo on the door
• Avoid hailing a taxi on the street
• Take taxis from hotels or from main entrances to shopping malls
• Make detailed arrangements before your trip and consider coordinating your pick up at the same time
• Avoid sharing taxis with strangers
• Ensure that the driver doesn’t pick up any other passenger on the way to your destination; this needs to be agreed upon prior to entering the taxi and a higher fee will likely be requested

Marine transportation

The Caribbean and the Pacific coasts of Nicaragua are known to be drug transit zones.

Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Nicaraguan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Nicaragua.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days*
Business visa: not required*
Student visa: not required*

* All Canadian travellers must obtain a tourist card on arrival. It’s available at the port of entry for a US$10, payable in cash.

The tourist card allows travel within the C-4 countries.

Central America-4 Border Control Agreement

Under the terms of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement (C-4), Canadians may travel within any of the C-4 countries – Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala – for a period of up to 90 days, without completing entry and exit formalities at border immigration checkpoints. This period begins at the first point of entry to any of the C-4 countries.

Travellers who exceed the 90-day limit can expect to pay a fine. An extension of up to 90 days is permitted once a year. You must request this extension and pay the required fee to Immigration authorities before the initial 90 day-limit expires. The length of the extension is at the discretion of the Immigration authorities of Nicaragua.

Business, study or volunteering travel

If you are travelling to Nicaragua for any reason other than tourism, such as business, studying or volunteering, the Nicaraguan government recommends that you pre-register your trip by submitting a form to the Ministry of Governance, in Spanish by email, at least 7 days before the intended date of your arrival in Nicaragua.

The form should be completed by the organization or institution that will be visited and must include the nature of the trip, the number of intended travellers, and the name of the institutions you will visit.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in Central America and Mexico, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Central America and Mexico. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Insects and Illness

In some areas in Central America and Mexico, certain insects carry and spread diseases like American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease), chikungunya, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, onchocerciasis (river blindness), West Nile virus, and Zika virus.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in Central America and Mexico, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited, especially outside of Managua. Some types of medical equipment or medications may not be available in the country.

Many institutions expect immediate cash payment, except for a few private hospitals that will accept major credit cards.

You might need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

A transfer of offenders treaty has not been signed with Nicaragua.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Alcohol, drugs and travel
• Cannabis and international travel

LGBTQ2 travellers

Nicaraguan law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Nicaraguan society remains conservative, however, and homosexuality is not widely accepted, particularly in the rural areas.

LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Nicaragua.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Nicaragua.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Nicaragua, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Nicaragua.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Nicaragua by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Nicaragua to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Driving

You can drive in Nicaragua with a Canadian driver’s licence up to 30 days. If you intent to stay longer, you must obtain an international driving permit.

Vehicle insurance is mandatory for foreigners, including residents.

More about the International Driving Permit

Money

The currency In Nicaragua is the córdoba (NIO).

Canadian dollars cannot be exchanged for local currency but U.S. dollars are widely used. Exchange foreign currency at banks or official exchange offices only.

Natural disasters and climate

Nicaragua is subject to various natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, torrential rains, floods and mudslides.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy season

Nicaragua’s rainy season usually occurs from May through November, with October being the month with the most rainfall. Incidents of flooding and mudslides regularly occur in urban areas, including on main roads during and after rainstorms.

Seismic activity

Earthquakes

Nicaragua is located in a very active seismic zone. Earthquakes occur frequently.

Volcanoes

There are several active and potentially active volcanoes throughout Nicaragua. Eruptions are possible. Ash fall and gas emanations are hazardous.

The Cerro Negro, Momotombo, San Cristóbal, Santiago and Telica volcanoes are monitored by the authorities. In the event of an earthquake or volcanic eruption, follow the advice of local authorities, including possible evacuation orders, and monitor local news reports.

Ineter - Nicaraguan Institute of Territorial Studies (in Spanish)