Nicaragua travel advice

We think this country is a real hidden jewel in Central America and one to visit now.

Nicaragua is learning fast from its Costa Rican neighbor and it is rapidly changing: delightful new hotels are opening up, making whole areas of the nation accessible for the first time. We are constantly keeping up to date with the changes and we have sought out some fantastic hideaways.

Guides in Nicaragua

Our guides’ excellent knowledge will more than enhance your trip.

Combining Nicaragua with other destinations

Although most definitely a destination in its own right Nicaragua makes an excellent combination with Costa Rica and we have researched the best land routes between the two.

Language

Spanish is the official language, however English is spoken in some tourist areas and on the Atlantic Coast. Along the Atlantic Coast there are three Indian languages spoken — Misquito, Mayangna and Rama.

Food and drink

The traditional diet today is a delicious mixture of soups, meats and sweets which reflect the ancestry of the Creole people. One of the most fundamental components of Nicaraguan food is corn which is used to make drinks such as Chicha and Pinol. It is also used in the Nacatamal, Indio Viejo and Sopa de Albondiga dishes which are commonly served as a main meal. Popular sweets featuring this dynamic vegetable include Atolillo and Perrereque.

Money

The cordoba (C$) is the unit of currency used in Nicaragua with one cordoba can be divided into 100 centavos. It is best to use larger cordoba notes in restaurants and in the hotels as using these notes to purchase smaller items may cause a problem with change. US dollars is the preferred currency for exchanging money and can be used to purchase items however be aware that if you pay in US dollars change will be given in cordobas at an unfavorable exchange rate for the tourist. Travelers checks cannot be exchanged anywhere in Nicaragua so please take only cash and cards.

Tipping

Tipping for good service is an accepted fact. It is common to be expected to tip the service you receive whilst eating in a restaurant also. A tip of around 10% is acceptable for good service.

Social etiquette

Please ask permission before taking photographs of Nicaragua's indigenous people — it is discourteous not to and many may refuse you, those who do pose may ask for a tip. Please bear in mind that children earn more by posing for tourists than their parents earn in a week and so they are not going to want to go to school. Please consider donating to a local charity or giving a gift instead.

Travel Advice

Our certified country specialists can advise on any safety concerns you may have. For current information, please refer to the State Department website.

When to go to Nicaragua

You'll find temperature and rainfall information, together with a month-by-month guide on visiting, on our guide for when to go to Nicaragua.

More Information

• Flight Time
  6 hours 45 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Managua)

• Time Zone
  UTC -6