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Travel to Nicaragua: what you need to know

Jul 3, 2019 • 6 min read

From lava-spewing volcanoes to idyllic, far-away beaches, Nicaragua's natural landscape measures up to some of the world’s best. But a series of clashes between anti-government protestors and the supporters of president Daniel Ortega have caused the death of 325 Nicaraguans in the spring of 2018 and placed a cloud of uncertainty over the entire country.

The ethical dilemma of traveling to Nicaragua

The Nicaraguan government has been accused of using tourism as a PR tool to promote a stable image of the country. While everything may seem ‘normal’ on the surface, the reality for Nicaraguans is quite different. Visiting tourists can provide a false image of normalcy, but tourists not visiting has a direct impact on an already bad economy and the livelihoods of thousands of families who rely on it.

Even the most intrepid travelers have concerns. The embers of violence have cooled and life is slowly returning to a sense of normalcy. It’s important to exercise caution, but here are areas in Nicaragua ready to welcome travelers.

Nicaragua’s misunderstood ugly duckling. As the capital, Managua is more prone to political demonstrations. The constant police presence is an occasionally alarming reminder that big brother is watching.

Even before the protests, many travelers used Managua as a hub to get other spots around the country. But, if you elect to stay in the city for a few days, exercise caution and avoid protests.

The chaotic city without street names is not easy to navigate, but you'll eventually find yourself exploring third-wave coffee shops, food-truck parks, authentic local food, specialty stores and local markets. And when the sun sets, the party begins with Nicaraguan music concerts, Latin dance parties, underground electronic fetes, craft beer bars and fine cuisine.

León and las Peñitas

León is a vibrant city full of inspiring architecture and artsy vintage murals.

The student town, considered the heart of Nicaragua, is located an hour-and-half from the capital city of Managua and was once home to Nicaragua’s greatest poet – Rubén Darío .

The city was a hot spot during the protests and demonstrations can happen anywhere around the city. If a protest begins, do not get involved and leave the area.

While in León, access the rooftop of the Cathedral Basílica de la Asunción (the largest in Central America) for a unique view of the city and the surrounding volcanic chain of Maribios. Pay a visit to Fundación Ortiz Gurdián to see one of the finest contemporary art museums in Central America. For an adrenaline fix, try volcano surfing down the black sands of the Cerro Negro.

Just 25 minutes west of León you’ll find Las Peñitas beach an easy-going surf spot with access to mangroves and Isla Juan Venado – a nature reserve popular for its bird-watching and turtle nestings.

Volcán Masaya

In a country filled with volcanoes, Volcán Masaya stands out from the crowd. The very active natural wonder was known as the ‘mouth of hell’ by Spanish conquistadors, is located on Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya, the country’s largest national park. For truly mesmerizing views, visit Volcán Masaya at night.

The town of Masaya, located 30 minutes from the national park, was a stronghold of anti-government protesters. As a result there was a strong police presence in the area causing many businesses to close. Though the situation has cooled down, it would be best to skip this small town.

History lives on every corner in Nicaragua’s oldest town. Founded in 1524, Granada has been invaded by pirates led by Henry Morgan and burned down twice by the self-proclaimed ‘President of Nicaragua’ William Walker, an American expansionist from Nashville.

To get a true sense of Nicaraguan history, however, visit Convento y Museo San Francisco, one of the best museums in the region.

Granada is located at the foot of the green and dormant Volcano Mombacho . The area boasts a nature and wildlife reserve with clear designated hiking trails, ziplines and coffee haciendas. Mombacho also offers panoramic views of Granada and Lake Cocibolca.

If the mainland isn’t for you, stay on one of the 365 islets that make up the archipelago – Isletas de Granada, which was formed by a massive volcanic landslide 20,000 years ago.

A darling among tourists, Granada has felt the brunt of the civil unrest. The peaceful and picturesque town painted in bright colors is now mainly shuttered as nearly half of the city’s businesses have closed in the past year. You can still find a decent variety of restaurants and cheap 'crisis' deals at a wide range of hotels as the remaining businesses try to stay afloat.

Corn Islands

The white-sand Caribbean paradise found on the Corn Islands remains remote and untouched. Distance kept the secluded getaway free of the violence and protests, leaving the beaches pristine and environment serene. Of course, all this serenity comes at a price – no cars, wifi or electricity (at times), particularly on Little Corn . But once you set eyes on the area, you won't mind at all.

Laguna de Apoyo

Located about 9 miles (15 km) north of Granada, this peaceful crater lake is believed to be the cleanest and deepest in the country. Whether you decide to just view from the crater's edge in Catarina or Diriá or head to the bottom of the crater for swim, you won't be disappointed.

Pacific Coast Beaches

All the beach towns in Southwestern Nicaragua have remained relatively calm and isolated from the civil unrest. The cluster of mountains, bays and uncrowded waves have something for everyone; from world-renowned surf breaks in Popoyo, which hosted the world surfing games in 2015, to affordable luxury beach developments in Tola.

International hub – San Juan del Sur – attracts the young and beautiful, but also offers top-notch lodgings (try El Coco Azul ) and fantastic dining (try Asados Juanita ). Not completely immune to all the troubles, tourism numbers have also dipped in the area in comparison to prior years.

Reaching Ometepe and seeing its famed twin volcanic peaks –  Concepción and Maderas – was the kind of arduous journey that never attracted very large numbers of travelers.

The area was under heavy police presence during the height of the unrest, and though things have cooled down, the local economy is suffering. Tourism has almost completely disappeared and many people have gone back to basic agricultural practices to survive.

Northern Highlands

The land of coffee and cigars isn’t usually high on travelers’ list, but anyone seeking a mountain experience won’t find a better place.

The civil unrest reached the main towns of Matagalpa and Estelí , but things have settled down. Estelí is the major producer of premium cigars in the world. Spend an afternoon learning the art of cigar manufacturing.

Matagalpa is about an hour-and-half southeast of Estelí and is filled with endless lush green mountains and waterfalls. Enjoy the coffee farms , the farmstays and unspoiled country life.

Essential travel tips

The United States has issued a level 3 ‘Reconsider travel’ advisory on Nicaragua due to the ‘civil unrest, limited healthcare availability and arbitrary enforcement of laws'. Both the UK and Canada have issued ‘exercise a high degree of caution’ travel advisories.

Commercial airlines still fly to the country.

When in Nicaragua

• Avoid all demonstrations
• Don’t take photographs of the heavily armed police.
• Sign up for online alerts from your local embassy to stay on top of any political unrest.

Nicaragua is under the international scope for sanctions, the economy is in a recession expecting a decrease in GDP of 7-11%  for 2019.

Armed robberies have been reported by travelers; however, no tourists have been killed, including during the height of the civil unrest.

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Nicaragua Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Canada to Nicaragua

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended in public spaces.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to Nicaragua from Canada?

Most visitors from Canada, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Can I travel to Nicaragua if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Nicaragua without restrictions.

Can I travel to Nicaragua without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Nicaragua without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Nicaragua?

Visitors from Canada are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Nicaragua.

Can I travel to Nicaragua without quarantine?

Travellers from Canada are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Nicaragua?

Mask usage in Nicaragua is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Nicaragua?

Restaurants in Nicaragua are open. Bars in Nicaragua are .

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Travel Advisory January 11, 2024

Nicaragua - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws.

Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to  arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability . Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to  crime.

Country Summary : Throughout Nicaragua, government and law enforcement officials continue to target individuals and organizations seen as opponents of President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo. U.S. citizens, including dual Nicaraguan-U.S. citizens, have been subject to revocation of Nicaraguan citizenship, reentry bans, expulsion, and other actions. The government and its affiliated groups have been reported to:

• Arbitrarily prevent individuals from entering or departing Nicaragua by air or land for perceived associations.
• Search personal phones, computers, and documents for anti-government content, limit photography of government property, and sometimes seize devices.
• Systematically target individuals for political reasons, regardless of nationality, including former allies, political activists, business representatives, clergy, human rights advocates, civil society leaders, academics, and members of the press.
• Arbitrarily target pro-democracy advocates and their family members.
• Confiscate privately-owned land, residences, financial assets, and personal property without warning or due process.
• Arbitrarily detain, accuse, and charge individuals with terrorism, money laundering, and organized crime offenses for political reasons without respect for fair trial guarantees.

U.S. citizen residents of Nicaragua also report increased scrutiny of alleged political speech.

U.S. citizens arrested in Nicaragua may find themselves subject to prolonged detention without charges or respect of fair trial guarantees. The judicial process lacks transparency, especially in politically motivated arrests and property dispute cases. Political influence and pressure may influence the outcome of legal proceedings.

The Department has determined the risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by the Government of Nicaragua exists.

Travelers should exercise increased caution and be alert to the risks of crime, including violent crimes such as sexual assault and armed robbery.

Poor infrastructure in parts of the country limits the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility may be subject to restrictions on their movements at any time.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Nicaragua.

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:

• Consider arrangements to depart the country quickly.
• Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and available for a quick departure from the country, if needed.
• Avoid demonstrations and restrict unnecessary travel.
• Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks.
• Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Do not display signs of wealth such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Nicaragua.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Length of stay.

One page per stamp.

No (90 days or fewer). Tourist card at airport. See Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements below.

Yellow fever (in some cases, see Entry Requirements section).

Must declare $10,000 USD or more in cash.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Managua

Km 5 ½ Carretera Sur Managua, Nicaragua Telephone:  +(505) 2252-7100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(505) 2252-7100 Fax:  +(505) 2252-7250 Email:   [email protected]

Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The Government of Nicaragua has denied entry to or expelled U.S. citizens, including dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens, for political reasons including perceived support for or association with disfavored people or organizations.  The Government’s actions have been taken against NGO workers, academics, religious workers, journalists, and many others.  The Nicaraguan government has revoked residency status for foreign nationals for actions or expressions it perceives as political. Travelers attempting to leave the country have been arrested or denied permission to travel for political reasons. Immigration authorities regularly review social media for evidence of political expression or activity and warn against such activities.    

• For visitors other than tourists , the Government of Nicaragua recommends that you pre-register your trip by following the instructions available on the Nicaraguan immigration website  (in Spanish only).  See  our website  for additional information.  
• All travelers should have an  onward or return ticket  and  evidence of funds  to support yourself while in Nicaragua.  You must carry a valid identity document at all times, such as a U.S. driver’s license or U.S. passport.  
• You must purchase a  tourist card for $10 USD  at the airport (exact change recommended), valid for up to a total of 90 days in any of the member countries of the  Central America-4 Border Control Agreement .  Visitors remaining longer must obtain an extension from Nicaraguan immigration or be subject to large fines.  
• Individuals traveling from countries at risk of yellow fever transmission must show proof of yellow fever vaccination administered at least 10 days before travel to be permitted entry to Nicaragua.   
• If you use a passport of a different nationality than you did on prior trips to Nicaragua, Nicaraguan authorities may deny you entry.  If you possess multiple nationalities, you should carry a valid passport for all of them.  If you have Nicaraguan nationality, you should have both your U.S. and Nicaraguan passports with you.  
• You must  exit Nicaragua with the same passport used for entry .  If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen while in Nicaragua, you will need to  get a new entry stamp from Nicaraguan Immigration  before you can depart by following instructions available on the Nicaraguan immigration website (in Spanish only).  This cannot be done at the airport on departure.  
• There is a  $42 USD tax  that must be paid upon exiting (this tax is normally included in the price of the plane ticket for air travelers).  
• See the  U.S. Embassy website  for information regarding departure requirements for children under 18 who also are Nicaraguan citizens .  
• Nicaraguan government authorities may search personal phones, computers, and documents for anti-government content and sometimes seize such private property.  Equipment such as binoculars, drones, or other items will generally be confiscated without a mechanism to retrieve these items later.  

Advanced Coordination Required for Volunteer Groups:  Please note that the Government of Nicaragua has forced the closure of more than 3,500 NGOs and charitable organizations.  Groups engaged in these types of activities, including the apolitical provision of basic services, may be denied entry.  You should email both the Embassy of Nicaragua in the United States ( [email protected] ) and the Nicaraguan Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( [email protected] ) to inform them of your trip and secure advance permission if you are leading one of the following types of trips, even if your group has worked in Nicaragua previously or has a local office:  

• Volunteer mission;  
• Charitable or medical brigade (the latter also need permission from the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health); or  
• Assistance visit organized by NGOs, religious groups, schools, or any other group doing this type of work in Nicaragua.    

For the latest visa and entry requirements, visit the  Nicaraguan immigration website (Spanish only).  

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Nicaragua.  

Dual Nationality and International Parental Child Abduction :  Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.  

COVID-19 Information:  As of July 21, 2023, the Nicaraguan government lifted all COVID-19 related travel restrictions.  Travelers arriving in Nicaragua do not need to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.  

Safety and Security

The Government of Nicaragua is authoritarian, limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, represses internal dissent, and monitors and responds to perceived threats to its authority.  Nicaragua’s Sovereign Security Law and its Terrorism and Money Laundering law allow for discretionary interpretation of often vaguely defined unlawful activities, such as threatening the peace and economic stability of Nicaragua.  Convictions under these laws have often been arbitrary and result in long prison sentences.  

Nicaraguan authorities and armed civilians in plain clothes known as “para police” may monitor, detain, deny entry to, expel, or question U.S. citizens concerning their activities, including their contact with Nicaraguan citizens.  Visitors should avoid any commentary on Nicaraguan politics or governance.  Nicaraguan authorities have subjected U.S. citizens, including dual U.S.-Nicaraguan citizens, to prolonged detentions which are often politically motivated or arbitrary.  Especially in politically motivated arrests, the judicial process has regularly been criticized as neither fair nor transparent.  

Demonstrations or strikes may occur throughout the country; in the past, the Nicaraguan government has violently suppressed them.  Avoid demonstrations and exercise extreme caution around large gatherings.  

Roads may be closed, and public transportation may be disrupted due to large crowds celebrating the following holidays:  

• Semana Santa (the week before Easter);  
• Repliegue Historico a Masaya (early July);  
• July 19 celebration of the Sandinista Revolution;  
• Celebration in Managua of Santo Domingo, the Patron Saint of the city (August 1st and August 10th);  
• Day of the Nicaraguan Army (September 2);  
• Nicaraguan Independence Day (September 14 and 15); and  
• Immaculate Conception (December 8).   

Crime: Vehicle burglaries, pick-pocketing, and occasional armed robberies occur in store parking lots, on public transportation, and in open-air markets like the Oriental and Huembes Markets in Managua.  Petty street crime is common.  Police presence is extremely limited outside of major urban areas.  The Caribbean Coast’s geographical isolation further limits the U.S. Embassy’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens living in or visiting the area. Uniformed police and para-police commit violence and intimidate civilians throughout the country for political reasons.  

U.S. citizens have been sexually assaulted in beach resort areas. There are no forensic doctors on the Corn Islands , so victims of violent crimes, including sexual assault, must travel to Bluefields at their own expense for medical examinations and collection of evidence.  In several recent cases, police were reluctant to produce police reports or pursue charges .  Please report such incidents to the Embassy.  

Medical services outside Managua are limited, including for victims of crime.  

Exercise extreme caution when renting or driving vehicles.  In one common scam, “Good Samaritans” pull over to help change a flat tire.  While the driver is distracted, an accomplice steals the driver’s possessions.  

Due to crime and other illicit activity, U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are prohibited from entering Managua’s Oriental Market and gentlemen’s clubs throughout the country.  

International Financial Scams:  See the Department of State and the FBI page for information.  

Victims of Crime: Report crimes, including sexual assault, to the local police at 118 (Nicaraguan equivalent of “911,” in Spanish).  Report serious crimes to the U.S. Embassy at 2252-7100 immediately and minor crimes during business hours.  

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .  

The U.S. Embassy can:  

• Help you find appropriate medical care.  
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.  
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.  
• Provide a list of local attorneys.  
• Share information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States .  
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or, limited financial support in cases of destitution.  
• Help you find accommodation and flights home.  
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.  

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  

Coastal Disputes: Be aware of the following border disputes:  

• Nicaragua and Colombia have an ongoing dispute over waters surrounding the San Andres Islands.  
• The Nicaraguan Navy has challenged vessels passing through its exclusive economic zone.  
• Nicaragua and Costa Rica have stationed security forces at Harbor Head (also called Isla Calero) at the eastern end of the San Juan River.  
• Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador have maritime and land disputes over islands and access to fishing rights in the Gulf of Fonseca on the Pacific Coast, a closed sea under international law.  

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are uncommon.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in major cities.  In the event of a diving injury, the only hyperbaric chamber is in Puerto Cabezas, over 100 miles from Corn Island where most tourists dive.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .  

Beach Safety: Exercise caution at the beach. U.S. citizens have drowned at Nicaraguan beaches, and in lagoons and lakes. Warning signs are not always posted.  Lifeguards and rescue equipment are not normally available.   

Hiking in volcanic or remote areas is dangerous.  Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.  Carry sufficient food, water, and communication equipment.  If you travel to remote areas, hire a reputable local guide. Nicaraguan law requires tourists hire a local guide for several volcanoes, including the two volcanoes on Ometepe Island (Maderas and Concepcion).  

Disaster Preparedness: Nicaragua is prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions.  If you are at a coastal area when an earthquake occurs, move swiftly to higher ground (when safe to do so) to avoid possible tsunamis.  

In the event of an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or other natural disaster, U.S. citizens should pay close attention to local media reports. 

• Follow the guidance of local authorities and monitor the websites of the Nicaraguan Institute for Territorial Studies ( INETER ) and the Nicaraguan Emergency Alert System ( SINAPRED ).  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive important emergency information. 
• See the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website for information about disaster preparedness.  

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.  

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Nicaragua are severe, even for possession of small amounts of illegal drugs.  
• Even with a prescription, marijuana is illegal in Nicaragua.  

There are severe penalties, including imprisonment, for domestic violence, psychological abuse, and non-payment of child support.  

Arrest Notification: Nicaraguan authorities do not always notify the U.S. Embassy when a U.S. citizen has been arrested or detained, especially if the arrestee has dual nationality.  If you are arrested or detained, ask both police and prison officials and friends or family to notify the U.S. Embassy.  After the U.S. Embassy learns of an arrest, it may be several days or weeks before the Government of Nicaragua permits a consular official to visit.  In the case of dual U.S.-Nicaraguan nationals, the U.S. Embassy may be denied consular access.  See our webpage for further information.  

• The judiciary does not enjoy independence from political influence.  U.S. citizens who have been arrested in Nicaragua may find themselves subject to prolonged detention without charges, often for political reasons.  
• Authorities have ignored or significantly delayed implementing judicial orders to release, deport, expel, or transfer prisoners.  

Purchasing Property: Exercise extreme caution before investing in property.  The Nicaraguan government may confiscate privately owned land or residences without warning or compensation.  Armed individuals have taken over privately owned land.  U.S. citizens have been arrested or threatened over property disputes.  See our website for more information.   

Customs Regulations: U.S. citizens planning to import items should contract a recognized local customs broker for assistance well in advance of their visit.  The U.S. Embassy is unable to assist with the customs or import process.  

• Nicaraguan customs officials may delay or block import of goods, including items intended for donation.  
• If you are planning to bring vehicles or household goods, consult Nicaraguan customs officials prior to shipment.  
• When entering with your vehicle, you must have the original registration and title.  
• Drones and similar devices are not permitted and will be confiscated by Nicaraguan customs authorities.  
• Photography equipment, videography equipment, and binoculars may be subject to seizure by the Nicaraguan customs authorities.  
• Approval from the Ministry of Health’s Pharmacy Department is required to import large quantities of medicine, even for charitable purposes.  
• Before excavating archaeological materials or buying historical artifacts, you must consult with the National Patrimony Directorate of the Nicaraguan Institute of Culture.  Otherwise, severe criminal penalties may apply.   

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:  

• Faith-Based Travel Information   
• International Religious Freedom Report   
• Human Rights Report   
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers   
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Nicaragua.  While violence against LGBTQI+ travelers is uncommon, widespread discrimination exists.  See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details .   

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):   The government of Nicaragua recently forced the closure of more than 3,500 NGOs and charitable organizations.  Employees of NGOs and volunteers supporting NGOs may be denied entry to Nicaragua.  Please see “Advanced Coordination Required for Volunteer Groups” above.  

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: There is limited or no accessibility assistance for public transportation and in many public areas.  There are few sidewalks and pedestrian road crossings.  

While Nicaraguan law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities, in practice such discrimination is widespread in employment, education, access to health care, and the provision of state services.    

Students: See our Students Abroad page.    

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .  

Government hospitals are understaffed and some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies.  Only basic, limited emergency medical services are available outside Managua.  

• Ambulance services provide transportation and basic first aid only and are unreliable throughout the country.  
• Physicians and hospital personnel frequently do not speak English.  
• Tap water is not reliably potable.  Drink only purified bottled water.  

 The following diseases are prevalent:  

• Mosquito-borne diseases (e.g., Zika , Dengue fever , and Chikungunya )  
• Upper respiratory viruses (e.g., Influenza)  
• Infectious bacterial diseases (e.g., Typhoid fever and Leptospirosis)  
• Intestinal illnesses (e.g., Giardia)  
• Rabies  

The Department of State does not pay medical bills.  Please be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.   

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Even with health insurance, most care providers overseas require cash payments prior to providing service.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .  We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.  

If traveling with prescription medication, review the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health's Pharmacy Department guidance on entering with pharmaceutical products.  Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging labeled with your doctor’s prescribing information.  

  Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

Further health information:   

• World Health Organization   
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)   

COVID-19 Testing Information:   

• PCR tests are available only through the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health.  The Nicaraguan government prohibits the import of COVID-19 tests.  The U.S. Embassy has received reports of tests being confiscated from U.S. citizen travelers upon arrival in Nicaragua.  
• All testing in Nicaragua is carried out at the National Center for Diagnosis and Reference (CNDR) and the Nicaraguan Institute for Health Investigation (INIS) from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Test results are returned the same day between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. and can usually be downloaded after 4:00 pm.  
• Travelers wishing to be tested must present an identification card (cedula) or passport and their flight itinerary.  The $150 fee must be deposited in either Banpro account 10010012253774 (U.S. dollars) or 10010002253784 (cordobas), both registered under TGR-MINSA.  Cash payments can be made at Conchita Palacios National Health Complex or at the INIS cashier.  

COVID-19 Vaccine Information:   

Sputnik V, AstraZeneca, Covishield, and Pfizer Vaccines are available in Nicaragua for U.S. citizens to receive. Visit the FDA’s website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.   

Covid-19 Medical Evacuation:   

Click here for a list of private companies offering medical evacuation of COVID-19 patients from Nicaragua to the United States. U.S. citizens seeking information about medical evacuation of COVID-19 patients should contact these private companies directly.  

LOCAL RESOURCES:     

• The health ministry has created a 24/7 hotline to call regarding COVID-19 in Nicaragua. To reach the hotline, call +505-8418-9953.  
• Managua Airport website with airline contact information.  

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Main roads between major cities are generally paved and in good condition. Other roads may have potholes, lack shoulders, be poorly lit and narrow.  Speed bumps are often poorly marked.  During the rainy season, roads may become flooded or have additional damage.  Horse carts, livestock, and pedestrians crossing roads in front of oncoming traffic are common, even on major roads in the main cities.  Most roads on the Caribbean Coast are unpaved.  Road signs throughout the country are limited or non-existent.  Road travel after dark is hazardous in all areas.  Carry a cellphone in case of emergency, but understand cell reception may be spotty in many areas of the country.  Do not drive outside urban areas after dark.  

Traffic Laws: If you are involved in a traffic accident, you must wait for the police and insurance company representatives to arrive before you move your vehicle.   However, especially during overnight hours, police and insurance companies may not respond.  Do not move your vehicle, unless a police officer tells you to do so, or you will be legally liable for the accident.    

Nicaraguan law requires that police take a driver into custody for:  

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (the legal limit is 0.05% blood alcohol content); or  
• For being involved in an accident that causes serious injury or death.  

The minimum detention period is 48 hours.  In fatal accidents, drivers are held until they reach a legal settlement with the victim’s family. To avoid liability, consider hiring a professional driver through a reputable hotel.  

All drivers must carry:  

• Driver’s license;  
• Proof of insurance;  
• Vehicle registration;  
• Emergency triangle;  
• Fire extinguisher; and  
• Inspection and registration stickers   

These regulations also apply to drivers in rental vehicles.  Penalties for not having any of the above include fines and towing.  For more information, check with the Nicaraguan National Police or the Embassy of Nicaragua. 

Traffic Stops: Transit police often stop vehicles with either local or foreign license plates.  

• If transit police demand a bribe in lieu of a fine, request a receipt and the officer’s name and badge number.  
• To report mistreatment by police, email a complaint to Nicaragua’s National Police and forward a copy to the U.S. Consular Section in Managua .  
• If you receive a traffic violation, police will confiscate your driver’s license until you pay the fine at a bank.  Depending on your length of stay, you may not be able to recover your license in a timely manner.    

Public Transportation: Buses, moto-taxis, and ferries often lack proper safety equipment.  

• U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use public buses and most taxis (including moto-taxis) due to safety and crime concerns.  
• Use only licensed taxis recommended by airport authorities, major hotels, restaurants, or other trusted sources.  
• Exercise caution in the face of possibly overloaded or unsafe ferries and boats.  Check with local naval or police authorities about the safety of being on the water in local weather conditions.  Most vessels provide insufficient numbers of life vests and other safety equipment.   

Airports in remote locales often have short airstrips, minimal safety equipment, and little boarding security.  

See our Road Safety page for more information and the Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism and National Transit Authority .    

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessed the government of Nicaragua’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Nicaragua’s air carrier operations in 2015.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .  

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Nicaragua should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the Maritime Administration website.  Information may also be posted to the websites of the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency .  

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Nicaragua . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Nicaragua Travel Restrictions

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Can I travel to Nicaragua from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Can I travel to Nicaragua if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Nicaragua without restrictions.

Can I travel to Nicaragua without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Nicaragua without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Nicaragua?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Nicaragua.

Can I travel to Nicaragua without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Nicaragua?

Mask usage in Nicaragua is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Nicaragua?

Restaurants in Nicaragua are open. Bars in Nicaragua are .

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Risk / Health Info for Nicaragua

If you are travelling to Nicaragua, make sure your shots are up to date. Consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, as well.

Mosquito-borne illnesses are present in Nicaragua, including malaria, Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya, so take care to wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible, use a reliable insect repellent, and sleep under a net or in air-conditioned accommodation where possible.

Stick to commercially bottled water when you are in Nicaragua to avoid “ travellers’ diarrhea ” and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Avoid putting ice in your drink, and don’t eat food if you can’t peel it, cook it or boil it.

Some medical equipment or medications may not be available in Nicaragua, and medical care especially outside of Managua is limited. Remember that your regular health insurance will not cover you outside Canada, so check with your provincial or territorial health authority before you leave for Nicaragua, and make sure you have sufficient funds available to pay cash.

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About nicaragua.

Nicaragua borders both the Caribbean and the Pacific oceans. On the Pacific side, the country has the two largest freshwater lakes in Central America. There is tremendous biodiversity and rainforest covers much of the territory. Textiles and agriculture make up most of its exports.

top Tips for travelling to Nicaragua

There are coffee plantations in the northern highlands of Nicaragua, and at Esteli there is a cigar factory. Nicaraguan rum is a good souvenir – look for Flor de Caña. Off the southern Pacific coast, the surfing is very good. Kayaking is a great way to explore the Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve.

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Nicaragua Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Known as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. Home to Lake Nicaragua (Central America’s largest lake), beautiful islands, expansive volcanic terrain, mangrove swamps, ethereal cloud forests, and tropical rainforests, Nicaragua is a stunning destination with tons of things to see and do — no matter your interests.

In fact, I loved my visit to Nicaragua so much I ended up extending my visit!

While Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur tend to pull in the crowds, if you leave the main southern cities and get a little off the tourist trail, you can discover even more varied landscapes, friendly locals, and little explored towns and national parks.

This travel guide to Nicaragua shows you how to visit on a budget, save money, and make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Nicaragua

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. Visit Little Corn Island

This archipelago off the Caribbean coast is one of the best places to relax in the country. It boasts diving with hammerhead sharks and underwater caves, fresh seafood, and plenty of hammock downtime on deserted beaches (invest in a good hammock if you’re serious about your R&R). Don’t miss Otto’s Beach.

2. Relax in San Juan del Sur

This picturesque surfer paradise is fringed with prehistoric volcanic hills and was the first destination to put Nicaragua on the map. Backpackers flock here in droves to surf and party under the stars. It’s a must-visit destination in the country!

3. Admire colonial Granada

Nicaragua’s oldest city is revered as the colonial jewel of Central America. Many of the pastel-painted buildings have been meticulously restored. Bask in Granada’s historic grandeur as you weave through the cobblestone streets, visit local art galleries, and sip on a coffee in a plaza.

4. Tour León

From world-class museums, Central America’s largest cathedral, and other beautiful monuments to a lively party scene fueled by the ample student population, León is one of my favorite places in the country. Sample the best roadside quesillo and see the local artists who give the city its eccentric flavor.

5. Explore Ometepe Island

Spend your days hiking, kayaking, or cycling around the island, spotting howler monkeys and archeological ruins in the process. Two of the two volcanoes here (Concepción and Maderas) offer strenuous 8-10-hour hikes. Guides are mandatory and cost 530 NIO.

Other Things to See and Do in Nicaragua

1. hike miraflores.

Miraflores national park was the highlight of my entire trip. Located in Estelí in northern Nicaragua, this is a stunning cloud forest with rivers and waterfalls. You can take day-hikes or multiday treks to the park (the multiday trips enable you to stay with local host families in small communities) and there are also programs to help you learn to farm. The one-day trek that I did ran from 7am-4pm and cost 550 NIO which included two meals and a mandatory guide. An extra bonus that I loved is that all the money goes back into supporting the community and farmers.

2. Explore Rio San Juan

This river is a wonderful stopover for nature enthusiasts looking to go kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Despite the surge in eco-tourism in the region, accommodation options are still no-frills and very low-key, with Wi-Fi and phone coverage being scarce. Most tours leave from San Carlos, which is located at the mouth of the river on Lake Nicaragua.

3. Hike a volcano

Nicaragua has 19 volcanos (9 of which are active). The two peaks on Ometepe –– Concepcion and Maderas –– are the two most popular day hikes in the country. Concepción, towering at 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) is a baking hot hike, so bring lots of sunblock and water. Maderas is easier but muddier, with a lake at the summit. Cerro Negro (near León) offers a comfortable sandy route from top to bottom and is also well-known for “volcano surfing.” Masaya Volcano is the most active volcano in Nicaragua and you can actually see the lava bubbling there (visits are limited to 10 minutes due to the fumes). For people wanting a challenge, try San Cristobal, Nicaragua’s highest volcano. If you’re hunting for scenic Insta-worthy views, hike to Telica (also within easy reach from León) for a spectacular sunset (you can actually camp at the top).

4. Relax at Lake Apoyo

Laguna de Apoyo is a breathtaking body of water that sits upon the Apoyo volcano crater near Granada. This 200-meter-deep lake is the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and sailing. Hostels offer day trips from Granada for around 300 NIO, which include a return shuttle and include use of another hostel’s facilities, kayaks, and tubes on the lagoon. You can also visit independently and stay overnight if you want a longer visit.

5. Tour a coffee plantation

Coffee is Nicaragua’s primary export and Jinotega, the misty and mountainous northern region, produces over 80% of the country’s output. You can organize a coffee tour in any of the eco-lodges/hostels dotted around the region. I particularly liked Eco Albergue La Fundadora. Even though I don’t drink coffee, it’s a fascinating and important industry in the country (and region) and worth learning about.

6. Relax at the Pearl Cays

The remote string of crescent-shaped playas that make up the Pearl Cays (pronounced “Pearl Keys”) offer some of the best Caribbean beaches in Nicaragua. Unfortunately, due to climate change, this stunning collection of white islands is steadily shrinking. Located near the Corn Islands, there are currently only 10 left from the original 18. Accommodation on the island is super exclusive and very pricey. However, day trips by shared speedboat can be easily arranged to make visits affordable. Private boats start from around 8,800 NIO and fit up to 10 people. Come here to snorkel, swim, and lounge away the day.

7. Visit the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve

Bosawas is the second-largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere and is home to jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys, harpy eagles, and more. A huge chunk of the country’s bird population — 600 out of 790 species — are located here, making it the prime spot for wildlife and bird watching. Multi-day trips, where you can truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, hike cloud forests, swim in waterfalls, and meet Mayangna and Miskito indigenous communities start at around 12,000 NIO per person.

8. Explore the Solentiname Archipelago

Isolated on the southwest tip of Lago de Nicaragua, the Solentiname Archipelago is a cluster of 36 islands revered for their pristine collections of primitive art, birdlife, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s best to base yourself in Mancarrón and organize day trips to other neighboring islands throughout your stay. It’s roughly a four-hour drive from Managua to San Carlos and then and then a two-hour boat ride to the dock in Mancarrón. There are no ATMs to be found on the islands so bring plenty of cash.

9. Shop at the Masaya Markets

Stock up on rum, coffee, hammocks, and ceramics at the Masaya Markets in Masaya National Park near Managua. Barter your way through the markets and soak up the colorful atmosphere. While there is a lot of tourist junk here, there are still plenty of artisanal handmade crafts as well. On Thursdays, a weekly ‘Night of Revelry’ features traditional dancing, local food, and music. The market is just thirty minutes from Managua.

10. Visit the stone carving hermit

Near Estelí in the north you can find Alberto the hermit. He’s been living here for almost 40 years, carving stone figures and sculptures in the jungle. He’s eccentric, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in the region. Stop by to see his carvings and learn about his life in the jungle. Here’s a video of my visit .

11. Check out the Isletas de Granada

Southeast of the city of Granada in Lake Nicaragua, you can find the Isletas de Granada (Grenada Islets). There are around 365 of these volcanic islands, some of which are inhabited. A few have hotels on them or you can take a one-hour boat ride around them to admire their pristine beauty (it costs around 1,400 NIO for a boat that can take 8 people).

12. See Somoto Canyon

Dating back to the Miocene epoch (23-25 million years ago), Somoto Canyon is a relatively unexplored part of Nicaragua. Located near the border with Honduras, it was discovered by Czech and Nicaraguan scientists in 2004 and, since then, its spectacular walls and clear water have become a popular tourist destination. Activities here include hiking, boating, and scaling the canyon walls. The narrowest part of the canyon can only be reached by swimming or by tubing. Somoto Canyon Tours offers a variety of tours lasting from 3-6 hours with prices starting at 880 NIO.

13. Do a homestay/Learn Spanish

If you have a bit more time to spend in Nicaragua, there are lots of opportunities to volunteer, learn Spanish, and farm by taking part in a homestay (Estelí, Ometepe, and León are popular destinations for this). Hostels and tourist offices in any of the big cities can help you arrange it.

Nicaragua Travel Costs

Accommodation – Small 6-8-bed dorms generally cost around 250-350 NIO per night, with private rooms costing between 700-1,700 NIO. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common and many hostels also have a swimming pool.

For a budget two-star hotel, expect to pay between 1,000-2,600 NIO for a double room including breakfast. Expect basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, A/C, a TV, and sometimes a swimming pool.

Airbnb is available on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast as well as in Grenada and Managua (there are no rentals on the Atlantic side). You can score a great beachfront property from 2,800-4,200 NIO depending on group size and house style. For a private room, expect to pay at least 880 NIO per night.

Food – Beans, rice, and meat are the backbone of most meals in Nicaragua. Grilled chicken, pork, and beef are common options (especially for street food). Gallo pinto (fried rice and beans) is the go-to breakfast and dinner meal, with an egg often being added for the breakfast option. Be sure to try the popular quesillo , a tortilla wrapped around white cheese smothered cream, and nacatamales , a tamale made from maize dough stuffed with pork and potato.

A typical lunch, eaten in a comedor (local eatery serving tradition cuisine), or street stall costs between 100-175 NIO. Nicaraguans are more accustomed to dining out for lunch so travelers can expect to see fewer evening options available in non-touristy spots.

On the coast, seafood is the main staple so expect a lot of grilled fish. On the Caribbean side, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Caribbean culture as well.

A meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 345-520 NIO for a three-course meal with a drink.

The touristy towns and on the coast have more international cuisine options. Expect to pay 800-1,200 NIO for a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant. A large pizza costs around 270-350 NIO. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay around 210 NIO for a meal.

A domestic beer or latte/cappuccino costs around 30-90 NIO.

If you’re buying a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay between 1,100-1,300 NIO for basic staples like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Nicaragua Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 1,100 NIO per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, use public transportation and chicken buses to get around, limit your drinking, cook all of your meals, and enjoy free and cheap activities like free walking tours and lounging on the beach.

On a mid-range budget of 2,800 NIO per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi or coach between cities, and do more paid activities like diving or guided day hikes.

On a “luxury” budget of 8,200 NIO per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like take domestic flights to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in NIO.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Nicaragua is one of the cheaper countries in the region but prices are rising quickly as it becomes more of the “it spot” to retire and work remotely from. Here are some of the best ways to save money during your trip:

• Take the chicken bus – Chicken buses (crowded local buses that make multiple stops) are the cheapest way to travel. You can save big time if you’re willing to trade A/C and cushioned seating to travel on a decommissioned school bus for a few hours. For example, the 3.5-hour trip from Granada to Rivas costs just 70 NIO!
• Refill your water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with you. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and safe!
• Use the right currency – Pay with US dollars in bigger cities and save your córdobas for purchases at small businesses in rural areas and villages since they won’t have change for larger USD bills.
• Bring cash – Cards are accepted in major establishments and big cities. However, electricity can be fickle on the coast so it’s best to carry plenty of cash in case you’re caught out in a blackout.
• Learn some Spanish – Inflated tourist prices are common here. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid the crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities are cheaper.
• Choose less-traveled routes – Prices for activities and accommodation plummet when you leave the tourist triangle (Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur). Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and venture off the beaten path.
• Share private taxis – If you’re traveling in a small group, a taxi can often work out cheaper and more time-efficient than a bus or shuttle. Negotiate the price beforehand and ask your hostel for the normal rates so you have a reference.

Where to Stay in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for places to stay during your visit, here are some of my favorites:

• Hola Ola Hostel (San Juan del Sur)
• Viavia Leon (León)
• De Boca en Boca (Granada)
• Managua Backpackers Inn (Managua)

How to Get Around Nicaragua

Bus – Chicken buses (i.e. converted school buses) are the cheapest way to get around. They are slow and stop often but have dirt cheap prices (around 35 NIO per hour of travel).

If you’re looking for a more comfortable journey, book with a coach company or private mini-shuttle, the latter of which are air-conditioned with cushioned seating and have storage room for your luggage.

For private mini-shuttles, expect to pay between 880-1,750 NIO per trip, however, you can try and buddy up with other hostel guests to drive down the price since it’s a private booking.

Most of the large cities have public transportation with local bus tickets costing under 6 NIO.

Air – La Costeña, Nicaragua’s domestic carrier, is based out of Managua and serves most of the country. Even if you’re keeping spending to a minimum, you have to take a flight if you want to visit the Corn Islands. Return tickets from Managua to the Corn Islands cost 5,700 NIO. For the 2.5-hour flight from Managua to Bluefields, expect to pay at least 4,500 NIO.

Train – There are no trains in Nicaragua.

Car Rental – A 4WD is recommended if you’re planning to visit rural areas as the roads here can be rough. Prices start from around 1,400 NIO per day for a multi-day rental. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and you’ll definitely want to have extra insurance too.

When to Go to Nicaragua

There are two distinct seasons in Nicaragua: the dry season, which falls between November-April, and the green (rainy) season which is from May-October.

To avoid the crowds and peak prices, visit during the rainy season. The rainier months also offer ideal surfing conditions and deserted beaches to enjoy the waves. Just keep in mind the Caribbean coast sees more rain than the Pacific. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F).

The San Sebastian festival in Diriamba runs between January 17th-27th and is an amazing way to celebrate a local fiesta, with colorful parades, traditional music, and street-side buffets filling up every corner.

Easter (Semana Santa) is when you can find most locals hitting the mountains or beaches with family and friends. Buses and hotels, particularly on the coast, fill up fast so be sure to book in advance if you’re visiting during this time. Note that cities are much quieter during this period and many local businesses adapt their opening times/hours and events to celebrate the religious holiday.

How to Stay Safe in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in Central America, though petty theft and robberies are still relatively common. For that reason, keep your belongings secure and out of sight at all times — especially on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here when out during the day, however, they will want to avoid traveling alone after dark. Additionally, the usually standard precautions apply here as well (always keeping an eye on your drink at the bar, never walking home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight, and make sure to have suitable insurance just in case as break-ins can occur.

Scams are rare here, but they do happen. Be wary of random strangers asking for medicine or other financial assistance. Just politely decline and be on your way. You can read about common scams to avoid here .

Inflated tourist prices are common in Nicaragua. To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being overcharged

Many people come to Nicaragua to party as drugs and alcohol are both cheap and abundant. However, the fines and penalties for drug use are steep. Police often expect bribes that can cost of hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars. Police won’t hesitate to strip search you if they suspect narcotics so avoid using drugs here to stay safe.

Moreover, the drug trade contributes to deaths, instability, and unrest in the region. Don’t contribute to that.

Protests and clashes in the major cities aren’t uncommon. Should a protest occur during your visit, avoid the area and return to your accommodation. While you’re unlikely to be hurt, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

As always, keep your wits about you at night time, particularly in the capital. Ask your hotel to call you a taxi in Managua (always negotiate the price before getting in the car), which can be an intimidating spot for travelers due to the lack of road names, tourists, and landmarks.

If you experience an emergency, dial 118 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Nicaragua!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Nicaragua Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Nicaragua Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

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Nicaragua Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Nicaragua.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Nicaragua, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Nicaragua. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Nicaragua include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Nicaragua. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Nicaragua’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Nicaragua. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Nicaragua may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Nicaragua, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Nicaragua, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Nicaragua .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Nicaragua for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Nicaragua due to the threat of violent crime.

Nicaragua (PDF 238.12 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 128 or go to the hospital.

Call 101 for the tourist police, or go to the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Nicaragua.

• Nicaragua has a high crime rate, including armed robbery, assault and express kidnapping. There aren't many police outside major urban areas. Avoid remote locations. Don't go out alone or at night. Only travel to tourist areas. Violent crime occurs in unofficial taxis. Use only official taxis with a red number plate, or radio-dispatched taxis. Avoid public transport.
• Armed gangs operate along the Honduran border. Only use highways that cross the border at Guasaule, El Espino or Las Manos.
• Hurricane season is from June to November. Hurricanes can cause flooding and disrupt services. Know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plan. Find your nearest shelter.
• Nicaragua has 3 active volcanoes. Don't hike near volcanoes or visit remote areas without an experienced guide.
• Protests against the Nicaraguan Government may occur. Take care not to appear to support anti-government activity. Avoid protests and political gatherings, authorities may arrest or imprison you.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Malaria is a risk in rural areas, including the outskirts of Managua. Consider taking anti-malaria medication.
• Insect-borne diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, chagas disease and leishmaniasis, are widespread. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Zika virus is also widespread. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get immediate medical help.
• Medical facilities are good in Managua but very limited elsewhere. There are no emergency ambulance services. If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation out of the country. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences.
• It's illegal to photograph official buildings. Check with officials before taking photos.
• Take care when driving. If you kill or injure someone in an accident, officials may detain you until your court case finishes.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Nicaragua for the latest details.

You'll need to purchase a tourist card at the airport. This permits you to visit Nicaragua for up to 90 days.

• Have multiple ways to access money. The only foreign currency you can exchange is US dollars. ATMs have low daily withdrawal limits.
• Driving can be dangerous. Travel only during daylight hours. Don't leave main roads in the northern border region, as there are unmarked landmines.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• The Office of the Embassy of Canada to Nicaragua provides consular assistance for Australians in Nicaragua. Australia doesn't have an Embassy in Nicaragua. You can also get consular assistance from the   Australian Embassy in Mexico .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

Nicaragua has a high risk of crime. This includes:

• armed robbery
• express  kidnapping , where criminals force you to withdraw cash from an ATM

Highest rates of violent crime occur in:

• Granada and San Juan del Sur
• La Rosita Siuna
• Corn Island

Gang violence can happen at major hotels, bus terminals, beaches and markets.

Illegal drug smuggling occurs in the Caribbean coastal area.

Policing is limited outside major urban areas. You may not find police in:

• remote beach communities on the Pacific Coast
• Atlantic Coast autonomous regions

Drug traffickers and other criminals use these areas.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

Incidents of kidnapping occur in Nicaragua. Small criminal gangs motivated by financial gain are responsible for the vast majority of kidnaps. Express kidnappings are a problem.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

Assaults and robberies occur in unlicensed taxis or when a stranger offers to call a taxi for you. To reduce your risks:

• don't use a taxi if a stranger organised it
• use official taxis with a clearly visible red number plate
• use radio-dispatched taxis at the international airport and larger hotels

Take note of the taxi's registration and phone numbers. 

While it is a common local practice to share taxis with strangers, we recommend you don't. If you must, agree on a fare for a solo journey before you set off.

There is a risk of ‘express kidnapping’ if you use an unauthorised taxi. You could be taken hostage and forced to pay cash for your release.

Road-based crime

Armed gangs carry out kidnappings, robberies and extortion in the northern border region.

For safer travel to the Honduran border, only use highways that cross the border at:

Criminals have attacked vehicles, including hotel-run buses, along:

• Managua to León highway (Route 12/CA-3)
• Tipitapa to Masaya highway (NIC-11A)
• Somotillo to Chinandega highway (NIC-24)

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• don't discuss your travel plans with strangers or in public
• don't travel at night
• only travel in tourist areas
• avoid isolated locations
• avoid walking alone, particularly on remote beaches

Avoid public transport. If you must use it, be cautious of anyone offering help. They may rob you.

Pickpockets and bag snatchers are a risk:

• on public transport
• in tourist areas
• at hotels and markets
• when your vehicle is stopped in traffic

Take care of your valuables: 

• in markets near the old cathedral in Managua
• near the Tica Bus Station terminal
• at public transport terminals

Use reputable tour operators. Thieves posing as tour guides may rob you, particularly on the island of Ometepe.

Only use ATMs at banks and in busy areas, like shopping centres.

Be alert when using your credit card. Credit card fraud is on the increase.

If you're attacked or robbed, don't resist. Many criminals carry weapons.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Protests against the Nicaraguan Government may occur.

Take care not to appear to support anti-government activity. Authorities may arrest or imprison you.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

During periods of unrest:

• avoid protests as they may turn violent
• monitor local media reports of unrest
• don't cross roadblocks
• follow the advice of local authorities

Boundary disputes occur in the Caribbean coastal waters between Nicaragua and Honduras. Authorities have detained and impounded boats and fishing vessels.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tourism safety

The town of San Juan del Sur has a lively party scene. If you plan to join in, see  Partying safely .

Swimming safety

Strong currents and undertows occur on the Pacific coast beaches. Check the safety conditions. There may not be lifeguards or warning signs.

Climate and natural disasters

Nicaragua experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• flash flooding
• earthquakes
• volcanic activity

If there's a natural disaster:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in touch with family and friends
• check the media and local sources for information
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Hurricanes, landslides and flash flooding

Severe weather  may occur at any time. This can cause landslides and flash flooding.

Hurricane season is from June to November. During this time, you may encounter landslides, mudslides, flooding and disruption to essential services.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

In the event of a hurricane:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

If you travel during hurricane season:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• keep your travel documents somewhere safe and waterproof
• contact your tour operator for an update on your destination

If a hurricane is approaching:

• identify your local shelter
• monitor alerts and advice from authorities

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as communication, water and electricity

To get weather alerts, register with either the:

• National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency

Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes

Earthquakes  and large, destructive tsunamis can happen in Nicaragua. It is in an active earthquake zone.

The country has 3 active volcanoes:

• Santiago Volcano, about 25km south of Managua
• San Cristobal Volcano
• Cerro Negro Volcano

Don't hike near volcanoes or visit remote areas without an experienced guide.

If a natural disaster happens, follow the advice of local authorities.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Nicaragua. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria  is a risk in rural areas of Nicaragua, including the outskirts of Managua.

Dengue  and  chikungunya  are widespread.

The risk of other insect-borne diseases increases in the rainy season, from April to November. This includes:

• Chagas disease
• Leishmaniasis

Widespread transmission of zika virus  occurs in Nicaragua.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself from diseases spread by insects:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common.

These include:

• tuberculosis
• leptospirosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

More information

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Facilities are good in Managua but are very limited in smaller towns and rural areas.

Expect to pay cash upfront before doctors, and private hospitals treat you, even in an emergency.

There are no emergency ambulance services in Nicaragua. Access to certain types of medical equipment, medication and treatments is limited.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need evacuation to another country. This can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison sentences in local jails.

• Carrying or using drugs

It's illegal to take photos of official buildings. Check with local authorities before taking photos.

There are strict restrictions on the use of drones. Do not use drones for photography or any other reason unless you have written permission from Nicaraguan authorities.

If you drive a car and injure or kill someone in an accident, authorities may arrest or detain you. The local courts will need to determine who was responsible. This can take weeks or months.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Dual nationality is recognised in Nicaragua. Should you be arrested, you may be treated only as a Nicaraguan citizen and denied access to consular services.

Children with single or dual Nicaraguan nationality may need specific documents to leave the country without both parents.

Contact the Nicaraguan authorities before you travel.

• Dual nationals
• Advice for people travelling with children

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Tourist card (CA-4 visa)

Nicaragua is a member country of the Central American Border Control Agreement (CA-4), along with:

• El Salvador

With a CA-4 tourist visa, you can travel freely by land between member countries within a 90-day period.

Your tourist card is dated from the first point of entry in any member country.

You can apply to extend the CA-4 visa at  Nicaraguan Immigration (Spanish)  before it expires.

If you overstay the visa without an extension, you may be:

• forced to leave
• unable to enter other CA-4 member countries

If you're not a tourist or you plan to stay longer, you'll need a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  Nicaraguan Embassy  in Japan for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Travel via the United States

If you're  travelling through the US , ensure you meet all current US entry and transit requirements. If you're arriving in or transiting through the US, you'll need to show onward flight tickets from not only the US but also any country that borders the US (i.e. Mexico and Canada) if that's your next destination. 

• Travel advice for the US

Travel via Canada

If you're travelling via Canada, you'll need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Canada. Transit requirements for Canada are strictly enforced. 

• Visit Canada
• Canadian High Commission
• Travel advice for Canada

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

• Travel advice for Chile

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Nicaragua. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

• Yellow fever risk and certification requirements

Arrival and departure taxes

There's an arrival tax, which you need to pay in cash.

Your airline ticket usually includes the airport departure tax from the Augusto Sandino Airport in Managua. Confirm this with your travel agent.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who want to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO).

You won't be able to use Australian dollars or traveller's cheques in Nicaragua.

The only foreign currency you can exchange is US dollars.

ATMs have low daily withdrawal limits.

Local travel

Remote areas.

If you're an adventure traveller, use an experienced local guide. This includes trekking to volcanoes or other remote areas.

Make sure you take enough supplies.

Driving permit

To drive in Nicaragua, you'll need either:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• an Australian driver's licence

You must get the IDP before arriving in Nicaragua.

You also need to carry your current passport and tourist card.

Road travel

Driving in Nicaragua can be dangerous. Hazards include:

• narrow roads in poor condition
• lack of signage
• dangerous local driving practices

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Nicaragua than in Australia.

If you're involved in an accident, don't move your vehicle until a police officer permits it.

If you plan to drive or travel by car:

• only travel during daylight hours
• travel in groups where possible
• don't hitchhike
• lock doors and keep windows up, even when moving
• don't leave main roads in the northern border region, as there are unmarked landmines
• Driving or riding

It's a common local practice to share taxis with strangers. To avoid this, agree on a fare for a solo journey before you set off.

Assaults and robberies happen in unlicensed taxis or when a stranger offers to call a taxi for you. Don't take a taxi if you don't know the person who called it.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Nicaragua's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn’t have an Embassy in Nicaragua.

The Office of the Embassy of Canada to Nicaragua provides consular assistance for Australians in Nicaragua. Australian provisional travel documents can be issued at this office.

More information: 

• Special travel documents  (Australian Passport Office)

You can also get consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.

Office of the Embassy of Canada to Nicaragua

De Los Pipitos, 2 blocks West,

El Nogal, Street No. 25, Bolonia

Managua, Nicaragua

Phone: (505) 2268 0433, 2268 3323

Email:  [email protected]

Website:  https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/nicaragua/managua.aspx?lan…

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario #55 Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco Colonia Bosque de Chapultepec 11580 CDMX Mexico Phone: +52 55 1101 2200 Email:  [email protected] Website:  mexico.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australian Embassy Mexico   X:  AusEmbMex

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Nicaragua?

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Nicaragua’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Nicaragua set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Nicaraguan Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Nicaragua.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Nicaragua, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

British nationals can visit Nicaragua for up to 90 days without a visa. You may be refused entry if you do not have an onward ticket.  

Check with your travel company or nearest Nicaraguan embassy what the policy is for entry at the Nicaraguan border.

Travelling to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras  

Under the Central America Border Control Agreement (also known as CA-4), you can travel between Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras for up to 90 days without a visa.

The 90-day period starts when you enter any of these countries and does not restart when you cross borders. You’ll have to go through immigration checks at borders. If you’re expelled from one of these countries, you’re also excluded from the other 3.

In Nicaragua, you can extend your stay by up to 30 days by paying a fee before the 90 days expires. If you overstay, you may get a fine.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Nicaragua, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Nicaragua guide .   

Travelling with children with Nicaraguan nationality

Children with single or dual Nicaraguan nationality may need certain documents to leave Nicaragua with one parent or a third party.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Nicaragua. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Contact the Nicaraguan Embassy in the UK for more information. 

Electronic cigarettes

There is a ban on electronic smoking devices such as e-cigarettes in Nicaragua. You cannot import, export, sell, store or use these devices, with or without nicotine. Customs officials can confiscate these products at the border.

Taking money into Nicaragua

The US dollar, either in cash or travellers cheques, is the only foreign currency freely exchangeable in Nicaragua. Banks do not exchange British pounds.

Arrival and departure tax

You must pay an arrival tax of 10 US dollars in cash. There is also a departure tax of 35 US dollars, which is normally included in the price of your air ticket.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Nicaragua

Nicaragua is often referred to as “the land of lakes and volcanoes” because of its chain of volcanoes. that runs from the north to the south along the country’s Pacific side and the high number of lakes. The biological diversity and warm tropical climate make Nicaragua a popular tourist destination. With misty volcanoes, gorgeous beaches, and dense rain forests, Nicaragua has much to offer.

You can fill your trip with a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, kayaking, swimming and zip lining. If you want a more laid back vacation, you can go to the Corn Islands for some nightlife and lying out on the beach.

Want to see some incredible wildlife? Take a boat into the Indio Maiz Biological Reserve, the largest area of untouched rain forest north of the Amazon. Check out León or Granada for colonial architecture and local attractions. Have a cup of Nicaraguan coffee and enjoy the scenery while you’re soaking up the country’s culture and history.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Nicaragua? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nicaragua? What is the Climate Like in Nicaragua? How Safe is Nicaragua? Zip Line over Mombacho Volcano What Should I Take To Nicaragua? Canadian Embassy in Nicaragua

Do I Need Vaccines for Nicaragua?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Nicaragua. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Nicaragua: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , yellow fever , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

If you are visiting low-altitude areas malaria can be a risk. Consider getting an antimalarial medication from your local Passport Health travel health specialist.

Zika virus is present in Nicaragua. Women who or pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Dengue , another mosquito-borne disease, is also present in the country. Take extra precautions including bringing mosquito repellents and using bed netting.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Does Nicaragua Have COVID-19 Travel Restrictions?

Though no travel restrictions are in place, Nicaragua is screening all arriving travellers and quarantining where necessary. Those showing symptoms, regardless of medical documentation, may be quarantined.

While there is not yet a vaccine to prevent COVID-19, vaccines do guard against hepatitis A and typhoid fever, two ailments prevalent in Nicaragua, as well as medication to prevent traveler’s diarrhea are readily available. Call us at or schedule an appointment online to learn more about protecting your health while travelling in Nicaragua.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nicaragua?

With a valid passport, Canadian citizens do not require a visa for business or tourism stays under 30 days. A tourist card (visa) is available for purchase upon arrival in Nicaragua for $10 U.S. dollar. This card is valid for up to 30 days.

Sources: Embassy of Nicaragua and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What is the Climate Like in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is divided into three areas: Pacific lowlands, highlands, and Caribbean lowlands. Each of these areas has a different climate with the differences in elevation. Here’s what the climate is like in a few of the major cities in Nicaragua:

• Managua – The capital has a tropical climate with constant temperatures between 27 to 32 degrees. Between November and April there is a dry season. Most rainfall occurs between May and October. Temperatures reach their highest in the dry season.
• León – January to March there are dry periods and from April to December there is a rainy season. December is the wettest month and on average the temperature is high, between 27 and 32 degrees. The warmest month of the year tends to be April, pack for the heat.
• San Juan del Sur – This popular destination has a tropical savanna climate. Temperature average between 21 and 27 degrees. With its elevation, there is rarely a change with seasons during the year.

How Safe is Nicaragua?

There is no travel warning listed for Nicaragua. But, there is a high violent crime rate. Exercise caution while travelling.

Nicaragua’s government is authoritarian; it limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Demonstrations happen throughout the country and many have turned violent in the past. For safety, try to avoid large gatherings and potential demonstrations.

Violent crimes such as vehicle burglaries, armed robberies, and pick-pocketing are not uncommon. Crime rates are high in the cities with street crime being common in Puerto Cabezas and Bluefields. Outside of the major cities police presence is limited. Be careful when venturing outside of popular tourist and urban areas.

Know the local laws of where you’re travelling. Keep your documents on hand, and have embassy information with you in case of emergencies.

Zip Line Over Mombacho Volcano

Looking for a great way to see the beautiful landscape of Nicaragua and have an adventure as well? Explore a breathtaking view of the tropical forest while taking a zip line tour over the Mombacho Volcano. The volcano is known for the mystical cloud forest that occupies much of the its sides and top. Your ride up guarantees gorgeous views of dense forest and agricultural areas.

There are four craters to tour and there are plenty of hiking tours that happen daily. All the craters have cloud forests. Take full advantage of your time on the volcano. You’ll even have the chance to see howler and white face monkeys.

What Should I Take To Nicaragua?

Your clothing will definitely depend on the time of year you visit. Depending on the region you visit you may have a very hot temperature or a cooler one. Here are a few essentials you should bring with you when you travel to Nicaragua:

• Umbrella/Raincoat – If you’re travelling to Nicaragua during the wet season, pack a small umbrella or a raincoat.
• Lightweight Clothing – The temperature averages are relatively high in Nicaragua year round. Having lightweight, breathable clothing will keep you cool in the heat. Make sure you include long pants in your luggage. Shorts are seldom worn by adults except in more relaxed areas such as at the beach or in your home. If you’re going to tour churches be sure your clothing is modest.
• Sunscreen – Nicaragua is along the equator, making it very hot and sunny a majority of the time. Take precautions and pack a sunscreen with a high SPF.

Canadian Embassy in Nicaragua

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Nicaragua, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:

Office of the Embassy in Nicaragua From “Los Pipitos”, 2 blocs down 25 Nogal Street Managua, Nicaragua Telephone: (505) 2268-0433

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!

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Canada has travel advice for top destinations known for pride celebrations.

Credit: Global Affairs Canada - @CanadaDownUnder

The Government of Canada has travel information for more than 230 countries. They even include local emergency contact info and where to find Canadian consular assistance nearby. For now, let’s focus on 3 destinations known globally for their Pride festivities.

Sydney, Australia

Officials from the Consulate General of Canada marching across the Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of Sydney World Pride. Credit: Global Affairs Canada - @CanadaDownUnder

Last year, WorldPride in Sydney, Australia, attracted 103,800 visitors, 20% of whom had travelled from overseas!

The Government of Canada advises that Canadians planning to attend Pride events in Sydney can expect the security situation to be similar to Canada’s.

Phone number for local emergency assistance: 000

Canadians who need consular assistance in Sydney can contact the Consulate General of Canada at 61 (2) 9364-3000. The office is located at 111 Harrington Street.

Full Government of Canada travel advice for Australia

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Officials from the Embassy of Canada to the Kingdom of the Netherlands participating in the Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade

Credit: Global Affairs Canada - @CanAmbNL

Pride in Amsterdam typically draw more than 500,000 visitors from the Netherlands and abroad. A crowd favourite event during the 2-week festivities is the annual Canal Parade.

Last year, 80 elaborately decorated boats (including one by Canadian embassy staff) participated!

Following public alerts from the Dutch government, the Government of Canada advises attendees of public celebrations in the Netherlands, including Pride festivities in Amsterdam, to be particularly vigilant.

Phone number for local emergency assistance: 112

Canadians who need consular assistance in Amsterdam can contact the Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands in The Hague at 31 (0) 70 311-1600. The office is located at Sophialaan 7, 2514 JP.

Full Government of Canada travel advice for the Netherlands

São Paulo, Brazil

Officials from the Consulate General of Canada marching in São Paulo’s Pride Parade

Credit: Global Affairs Canada - @CanadaBrazil

The São Paulo Pride Parade is the largest Pride event in South America—even the world—with millions attending it each year.

If you travel to Brazil for Pride, the Government of Canada advises to be aware of your surroundings at all times and follow the security directives of local authorities due to high rates of crime.

Phone numbers for local emergency assistance:

• Police (military) - 190
• Medical assistance - 192
• Firefighters - 193

Canadians who need consular assistance in São Paulo can contact the Consulate General of Canada at +55 11 5509 4321. The office is located at Centro Empresarial Nações Unidas - Torre Norte, Av. das Nações Unidas, 12901.

Full Government of Canada travel advice for Brazil

No matter where you’re celebrating Pride abroad, check Travel Advice and Advisories by Destination . Pay particular attention to the Safety and security and Laws and culture sections for information specific to 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians.

If your passport has an “X” as a gender identifier, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination to make sure it will be recognized there.

Finally, the Government of Canada provides general information to help 2SLGBTQI+ travellers prepare for their trip and general advice so they may stay safe during large-scale events abroad .

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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

• Share full article

By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Sept. 11, 2024, 11:38 a.m. ET

Follow along with live updates and debate analysis on the Trump and Harris campaigns .

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

Climate change

Ms. Harris has supported the Biden administration’s climate efforts , including legislation that provided hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits and rebates for renewable energy and electric vehicles.

“It is clear the clock is not just ticking, it is banging,” she said in a speech last year , referring to increasingly severe and frequent disasters spurred by climate change. “And that is why, one year ago, President Biden and I made the largest climate investment in America’s history.”

During her 2020 presidential campaign, she emphasized the need for environmental justice , a framework that calls for policies to address the adverse effects that climate change has on poor communities and people of color. She has emphasized that as vice president as well.

In 2019, Ms. Harris, then a senator, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, introduced legislation that would have evaluated environmental rules and laws by how they affected low-income communities. It would have also established an independent Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Accountability and created a “senior adviser on climate justice” within several federal agencies. In 2020, Ms. Harris introduced a more sweeping version of the bill. None of the legislation was passed.

Ms. Harris was tasked with leading the Biden administration’s efforts to secure voting rights legislation, a job she asked for . The legislation — which went through several iterations but was ultimately blocked in the Senate — would have countered voting restrictions in Republican-led states, limited gerrymandering and regulated campaign finance more strictly.

This year, she met with voting rights advocates and described a strategy that included creating a task force on threats to election workers and challenging state voting restrictions in court.

She has condemned former President Donald J. Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. In a speech in 2022 marking the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, she said that day had showed “what our nation would look like if the forces who seek to dismantle our democracy are successful.” She added, “What was at stake then, and now, is the right to have our future decided the way the Constitution prescribes it: by we the people, all the people.”

Economic policy

In campaign events this year, Ms. Harris has promoted the Biden administration’s economic policies, including the infrastructure bill that Mr. Biden signed, funding for small businesses, a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped the cost of insulin for people on Medicare and student debt forgiveness.

She indicated at an event in May that the administration’s policies to combat climate change would also bring economic benefits by creating jobs in the renewable energy industry. At another event , she promoted more than $100 million in Energy Department grants for auto parts manufacturers to pivot to electric vehicles, which she said would “help to keep our auto supply chains here in America.”

As a senator, she introduced legislation that would have provided a tax credit of up to $6,000 for middle- and low-income families, a proposal she emphasized during her presidential campaign as a way to address income inequality.

Immigration

One of Ms. Harris’s mandates as vice president has been to address the root causes of migration from Latin America, like poverty and violence in migrants’ home countries. Last year, she announced $950 million in pledges from private companies to support Central American communities. Similar commitments made previously totaled about $3 billion.

In 2021, she visited the U.S.-Mexico border and said : “This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We’re talking about children, we’re talking about families, we are talking about suffering.”

More recently, she backed a bipartisan border security deal that Mr. Biden endorsed but Mr. Trump, by urging Republican lawmakers to kill it , effectively torpedoed. The legislation would have closed the border if crossings reached a set threshold, and it would have funded thousands of new border security agents and asylum officers. “We are very clear, and I think most Americans are clear, that we have a broken immigration system and we need to fix it,” Ms. Harris said in March .

Israel and Gaza

Ms. Harris called in March for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza and described the situation there as a “humanitarian catastrophe.” She said that “the threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel must be eliminated” but also that “too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

In an interview later that month , she emphasized her opposition to an Israeli invasion of Rafah, the city in southern Gaza to which more than a million people had fled. “I have studied the maps,” she said. “There’s nowhere for those folks to go, and we’re looking at about 1.5 million people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them.”

She has said on multiple occasions that she supports a two-state solution.

Racial justice

Racial justice was a theme of Ms. Harris’s presidential campaign. In a memorable debate exchange in 2019 , she denounced Mr. Biden’s past work with segregationist senators and opposition to school busing mandates.

She has called for ending mandatory minimum sentences, cash bail and the death penalty, which disproportionately affect people of color.

Amid the protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd in 2020, she was one of the senators who introduced the Justice in Policing Act, which would have made it easier to prosecute police officers, created a national registry of police misconduct and required officers to complete training on racial profiling. It was not passed.

Her record as a prosecutor also came into play during her presidential campaign. Critics noted that as attorney general of California, she had generally avoided stepping in to investigate police killings.

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor

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Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.