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.
Photo: @drew.botcherby
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How Safe is Nicaragua? (Our take)
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.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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. 🙂
Is Nicaragua Safe to Visit Right Now?
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.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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.
Safest Places in Nicaragua
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.
Leon
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.
Granada
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.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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.
Photo: @amandaadraper
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.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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.
Is Nicaragua safe for female travellers?
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.
More on Safety in Nicaragua
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.
Photo: @amandaadraper
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.
Photo: Jonathan Scott Chinn (Flickr)
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.
Photo: @amandaadraper
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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Grab an eSIM!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!
FAQ about Staying Safe in Nicaragua
Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Nicaragua.
So, is Nicaragua Safe?
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.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
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?
Hi Nicola
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.
Regards
Aiden
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.
Aiden
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,
Hello,
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
Belize lol
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.
Hey Nan,
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…