Reissued with updates to information on arbitrary enforcement of laws.
Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due toarbitrary enforcement of laws,the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due tocrime.
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 thecountry information pagefor 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 forTravel to High-Risk Areas.
- Enroll in theSmart Traveler Enrollment Program(STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebookand Twitter.
- Review theCountry Security Reportfor Nicaragua.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review theTraveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latestTravel Health Informationrelated to your travel.
FAQs
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.
Is Nicaragua or Costa Rica safer? ›
Both Costa Rica and Nicaragua are relatively safe countries. Nicaragua is statistically safer than Costa Rica, in terms of crime rate that is officially recorded. According to records, Nicaraguan crime rate has been declining over the past couple decades, whereas Costa Rica's crime rate has been increasing.
Is Guatemala or Nicaragua safer? ›
Finally, it's important to note that both Nicaragua and Guatemala are generally safe places to travel in. However, as with any destination, it's always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Note that Nicaragua is classified as safer than Guatemala.
Can US citizens fly to Nicaragua? ›
Yes. You can fly to Managua via Miami, Houston, Ford Lauderdale, San Salvador, Costa Rica, Mexico and Panamá with Avianca, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, Aeroméxico, Copa Airlines and SANSA.
Is Mexico or Nicaragua safer? ›
Crime rate comparison Mexico vs Nicaragua
| Mexico | Nicaragua |
|---|
| Problem violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 59.41 | 53.93 |
| Problem corruption and bribery | 74.26 | 79.17 |
| Contributors: | 4129 | 68 |
| Last Update: | May 2024 | March 2024 |
12 more rowsThe United States remains Nicaragua's top economic partner, buying 50 percent of Nicaraguan exports and supplying 27 percent of its imports, and sending 67 percent of its remittances. Total (two-way) goods trade between the two countries was $6.8 billion in 2021.
Is Panama or Nicaragua safer? ›
Violent Crime. Nicaragua has the lowest violent crime rate in Central America with far less violent crime than the more popular tourist destinations of Costa Rica, Belize, Panama, Mexico, or Guatemala*. In fact, Nicaragua has a violent crime rate considerably lower than the average in urban areas of the USA**.
Is Nicaragua safe for female Travellers? ›
Is Nicaragua safe for women? Nicaragua is considered one of the safest countries in Central America. Walking alone at night isn't recommended, and there are some neighborhoods to watch out for in any city but the tourist joints are safe and welcoming. Everyone is kind and ready to make friends.
Is Nicaragua as beautiful as Costa Rica? ›
That said, Nicaragua has a few gems worth seeking out for those traveling with kids. Highlights: The inherent, natural beauty of both Costa Rica and Nicaragua can't be overstated. Nicaragua highlights include night diving at Little Corn Island, volcano-boarding, and a day trip to lush Ometepe Island.
What is safest country in Central America? ›
Costa Rica is commonly known as Central America's safest country. It has lower crime levels, a more stable economy and a reputation as a peaceful nation. The country also provides a high quality of life to its citizens.
San Juan del Sur is overall safe, especially during the day. The main concern you'll have here is petty theft and pickpocketing. Avoid the beach at night and stay away from the dark side streets. In fact, don't go out at night at all to add another level of security during your stay.
Can I wear jewelry in Nicaragua? ›
General safety tips for tourists in Nicaragua
Ditch flashy jewelry and designer gear for more modest attire.
Can you use US dollars in Nicaragua? ›
Currency Exchange -- U.S. dollars are widely accepted in Nicaragua and can be used to pay taxis, hotels, restaurants, and stores. However, do keep some córdobas on hand, since you may run into spots where you'll need them.
Is Nicaragua tourist friendly? ›
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US State Department currently recommends US citizens 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.
What can't you bring into Nicaragua? ›
Absolutely do NOT attempt to bring in illegal substances of any kind! Though legal, vapes and electronic cigarettes are also banned imports in Nicaragua. You can't bring them into the country, but you can still get your nicotine fix by purchasing these items at a premium in cities like Managua.
What is the situation in Nicaragua? ›
Nicaraguans continue to suffer intensified repression, the closing of all democratic spaces, and the forced exile of thousands of journalists, civil society members, human rights defenders, religious actors, and opposition figures.
How safe is San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua? ›
Safety at night:Moderate
San Juan del Sur is generally safe, however it is advisable to take caution especially during the night in this tourist destination. While the main areas are typically well-traveled and well-lit, some of the outer parts can have poor lighting and low police presence.
Is Nicaragua expensive to visit? ›
NICARAGUA TRAVEL TIPS
San Juan del Sur and the nearby beach towns are prime budget destinations. The outdoor attractions are free, or course, and there are plenty of hostels, cheap places to eat, and services that cater to budget travellers. If you need a guide, those are inexpensive, too (just be sure to tip).
Can you drink tap water in Nicaragua? ›
It is better to avoid drinking tap water in Nicaragua as it can cause diarrhoea. Bottled water is readily available and is recommended. Alternatively tap water can be drunk if it has been boiled or purified with purification tablets.
