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TRAVEL REPORT
Nicaragua

1. RECENT UPDATES

A Travel Warning has been removed from this report.

Section 2 has been updated (warning for Hurricane IDA removed).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

Nicaragua

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Canadian visitors should exercise a high degree of caution due to a gradual increase in the use of armed violence.

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. For more information, please see our Global Issue on the hurricane season.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.

Security in Northern and North-Eastern Nicaragua

Despite regular security patrols by the Nicaraguan Army and Police, armed banditry occurs in areas near Bonanza, La Rosita and Siuna (the Mining Triangle) in north-eastern Nicaragua. Incidents of carjacking have also been reported between Managua and Puerto Cabezas. Road travel to this area should be undertaken in convoy of at least two vehicles and during daylight hours.

Due to this type of criminal activity, land travel to Honduras should be undertaken only on highways with official border crossings at Guasaule, El Espino, and Las Manos.

A particularly high degree of caution should also be exercised in remote areas of the Atlantic coast, where armed robberies and kidnappings occur, and where natural disasters are frequent. In such circumstances, transportation routes and power and telecommunications systems may be affected, and water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases may become a threat. Travellers should monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Crime

Street crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching is common, and tends to increase during the month of December. Travellers should use only hotels that provide adequate security.

Remain alert when walking in markets (e.g. Mercado Oriental), in the vicinity of the old cathedral in Managua, near Tica Bus (bus terminal of buses coming from Honduras and Costa Rica), at public transportation terminals, and in poorer areas. Exercise common sense and ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Visitors should carry a photocopy of the identification page of their passport and entry stamp with them, and keep the original in a secure place. Do not carry large sums of money, especially while travelling on buses. Purse, backpack, and jewellery snatching occurs while vehicles are stopped at intersections and while pedestrians are walking on the street.

Violent crime, including armed robbery and sexual assault, is on the increase in Managua, Granada and San Juan del Sur, and also occurs in Bonanza, La Rosita, Siuna and on Little Corn Island. Express kidnappings, in which victims are usually abducted for a few hours and forced to withdraw money from Automated Banking Machines (ABMs), are also perpetrated.

If attacked, do not resist, as offering resistance may result in violence. Weapons are carried by many criminals.There have been incidents of passengers being robbed, sometimes with violence, by taxi drivers or by people posing as taxi drivers using unauthorized taxi signs on their cars. Travellers should only take taxis from hotels and main entrances of shopping malls and make detailed arrangements for the return trip. Use only taxis that have red plates and have a circle on the door that says "Cooperativa" or taxi services ordered by phone. Arrange with the taxi driver not to pick up any other passengers on the way to your destination, even if it is more expensive. Boaters should exercise caution and be aware that both the Pacific and the Caribbean coasts of Nicaragua are known to be drug transit zones.

Travellers to the Island of Ometepe have been victims of fraudulent tour guides. Hotels and local authorities can provide information on reputable tour guides. 

Landmines

In spite of de-mining efforts by the government, there are still active landmines in isolated areas of the country. This poses a significant danger to travellers who venture off main roads. Affected areas are not always clearly marked.

Demonstrations and Roadblocks

Demonstrations occur occasionally and may cause traffic disruptions. As a precautionary measure, Canadians should be alert, avoid large crowds and keep informed of possible roadblocks. Periodic violence may occur on the streets, particularly in Managua, as a result of protests. Access to the Managua International Airport may be affected, as well as the area of Carretera a Masaya where universities, shopping malls and restaurants are located.

Due to boundary disputes in the Caribbean coastal waters between Nicaragua and Honduras, passengers of foreign fishing boats have been detained and/or fined and have been vessels impounded.

General Security Measures

Police presence is extremely sparse outside of major urban areas. Travel should be restricted to tourist areas and to daylight hours only. Hitchhiking in Nicaragua is highly unadvisable. Travel in groups whenever possible. Motorists should keep windows closed and doors locked when driving through crowded areas.

Exercise caution when swimming, as strong currents and undertows have resulted in drownings. Warning signs, lifeguards, and rescue equipment are often lacking.

Power blackouts in all parts of the country are becoming more frequent, especially during the dry season from July to August.

Nicaragua lacks an extensive tourist infrastructure. INTUR, the governmental agency responsible for developing, regulating and promoting tourism in Nicaragua, offers some information in English.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Nicaraguan authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Nicaragua or its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Nicaragua. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of a tourist card, which is usually obtained at port of entry for a US$5 fee. The tourist card allows for travel within the C-4 countries (Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala) for a 90 day period. The 90 days begin at the first point of entry of any of the C-4 countries. An entry stamp is provided in the passport upon arrival. Fines are applied to travellers who overstay the 90 day period, although a request for an extension can be made by paying a fee before the 90 days limit expires.

A return or onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the trip are also required.

Tourist Card: Required (issued for a 90 day period for travel within C-4 countries)
Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Not required

An airport tax of US$32 is charged upon departure.

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Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Nicaragua - MANAGUA, Embassy of Canada (Program Office)
Address: De Los Pipitos, 2 Blocks West, El Nogal Street No. 25, Bolonia, Managua, Nicaragua
Postal Address: P.O. Box 25, Managua, Nicaragua,
Tel.: 505-2268-0433,-3323
Fax: 505-2268-0437
E-Mail: mngua@international.gc.ca

The Canadian Embassy in San José, Costa Rica, has consular responsibility for Nicaragua.

Costa Rica - SAN JOSÉ, Embassy of Canada
Address: La Sabana Executive Business Centre, Building No. 5, 3rd Floor, behind the Contraloría General de la República, San José
Postal Address: P.O. Box 351-1007, San José,
Tel.: 506 2242-4400
Fax: 506 2242-4410
E-Mail: sjcra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.costarica.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Office of the Embassy of Canada in Managua and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

As in many other areas of Central America, Latin America and the Caribbean, travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves against water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases (such as dengue fever) by using mosquito repellent (DEET), and avoiding swampy or low lying areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. Using physical barriers such as mosquito nets and long sleeved shirts is also recommended.

Medical care is limited, especially outside of Managua. Certain types of medical equipment or medications may be unavailable in the country. Most doctors and hospital personnel do not speak English or French. Many institutions often expect immediate cash payment for medical care, except for a few private hospitals that will accept major credit cards for payment. 

Travellers should drink bottled or previously boiled water.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. A Transfer of Offenders Treaty has not been signed with Nicaragua. The conditions in Nicaraguan prisons are extremely basic and prisoners are expected to supply their own food and bedding.

Homosexual activity is illegal.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Driving standards are poor. Except for the Pan-American Highway, most roads lack shoulders, are narrow, potholed and poorly lit. Road signs are usually non-existent, and many streets are unnamed. Detours are common but are often not marked. Land travel after dark is very dangerous throughout the country. Roadside assistance is not available.

Vehicles, especially taxis and buses, are poorly maintained. Public transportation buses are overcrowded, unreliable and often targeted by pickpockets, and should be avoided as much as possible.

Vehicles involved in accidents should not be moved until authorized by a police officer. Drivers who disregard this practice may be held liable for the accident. Any driver who is a party to an accident where injuries have been sustained will be taken into custody, regardless of who is at fault. The detention lasts until a judicial decision is reached (usually weeks or months), or until the injured party signs a waiver releasing the driver from further liability (often following a cash settlement).
  
Drivers suspected of driving while intoxicated will be taken into custody. Police spot checks are frequent. Ensure you carry vehicle registration. Visitors might consider hiring a driver for their stay in Nicaragua.

Canadians in Nicaragua can generally use their Canadian driver's licence for no more than 30 days. They should also carry a copy of their passport when driving, stamped by the authorities upon arrival. Vehicle insurance is mandatory for foreigners (including residents). An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for longer periods.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the Córdoba Oro (NIO). Most restaurants and hotels in Managua now accept credit cards. Canadian dollars cannot be exchanged for local currency anywhere. U.S. dollars (cash or traveller's cheques) are widely used. Foreign currency should only be changed at banks or official exchange houses.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. Flooding is common during this period. You are advised to visit the Web site of the National Hurricane Center for information on weather conditions.

Landslides also occur throughout the year. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Nicaragua is located in an active seismic zone. Volcanic activity also occurs. San Cristobal and Cerro Negro volcanoes are particularly active. Officials continue to monitor the Santiago Volcano, located in Parque Volcán Masaya (a tourist attraction), approximately 25 km south of Managua. Eruptions are possible. Ash falls and gases are hazardous. Travellers should follow the advice of local authorities in the event of explosions or eruptions. Tourists should not visit the park while it is closed. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Office of the Canadian Embassy in Managua (see below) in the event of an emergency.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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