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Nicaragua It is a beautiful Central American country known for its history, culture and adventure. Traveling to Nicaragua now requires a great deal of caution. Some may want to delay the trip until the political unrest and arbitrary enforcement of the law ends. Others may still want to travel. However, they should be careful.
Those who plan and are careful can travel to Nicaragua with less risk.
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The latest safety updates when traveling to Nicaragua
The US State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Nicaragua through December 2022. The recommendation cites the threat of arbitrary arrests and detentions of those the government deems to oppose President Ortega.
The recommendation cites a lack of health care and an increase in violent crimes, including sexual assault and armed robbery.
The governments of New Zealand, Finland and Canada have issued travel advisories for their citizens traveling to Nicaragua.
Common safety concerns when traveling to Nicaragua
Tourists in Nicaragua face many security risks.
Social and political instability
Since 2018, the country has been experiencing political instability. The government is targeting those who oppose Ortega or advocate for democracy. These individuals may be subject to arbitrary arrest and confiscation of their personal property. The country’s poor infrastructure limits governments’ ability to help their citizens in emergencies.
Crime
Poverty is rampant in Nicaragua and the prevalence of crime in the cities is a major factor. Violent crime, pickpocketing, pickpocketing and fraud are particularly problematic in the tourist areas of Corn Island, Granada, Managua and San Juan del Sur.
Hackers target tourists and demand huge ransoms. Pickpockets target tourists in markets, hotels and beaches. Sometimes they snatch bags from cars waiting at stoplights.
Credit card fraud and taxi fraud are also common. Cases of armed robbery occur on highways such as Managua-Leon and Tipita-Masaya. Gang violence is rampant in George Dimitrov, Rene Schick and Zona Rosa. Prostitutes also sometimes rob people in the Zona Rosa district.
Crime is most common at night. Women traveling alone are particularly vulnerable to sexual harassment or verbal abuse.
The country’s police force is weak. Tourists should carefully monitor their surroundings and keep their belongings close.
Health concerns
Nicaragua’s health care system is limited, so tourists should make arrangements to travel outside the country if they are seriously ill. Dengue fever and malaria occur in Nicaragua, and travelers are encouraged to get a malaria vaccine before traveling.
Safety measures to remember when traveling to Nicaragua
People traveling to Nicaragua should take the following steps to stay safe.
- Travel in groups, especially female travelers.
- Visit tourist places during the day.
- Avoid exposing valuables and keep these items close to them.
- Only use ATMs in banks.
- Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or other valuables.
- Avoid taking a bicycle or public transport.
- Use only authorized taxis.
- Use only reputable tour companies.
- Share the itinerary with family and friends at home and meet with them often.
- Avoid discussing travel plans or hotel accommodations with strangers.
- Avoid fighting back if attacked.
- Choose to stay in safer areas like Leon, Granada and Playa Maderas.
- Avoid places where there are political gatherings.
- Keep a low profile.
- Buy travel insurance
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Why visit Nicaragua?
Nicaragua offers many interesting sights. Here are a few reasons to visit Nicaragua
- The amazing Spanish architecture and the beautiful islands of Granada
- Natural attractions include wildlife reserves, volcanic lakes on volcanoes, and Somoto Canyon National Monument.
- Demonstration volcano
- Lake Nicaragua and Ometepe Island
Visiting Nicaragua now requires caution. But travelers can be safe if they take precautions.
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