Ruins of León Viejo

Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Nicaragua page at Yoogo.

Nicaragua's official currency is the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO), though US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and many businesses quote prices in both currencies. Card payments are available in larger hotels and restaurants in Managua, Granada, and León, but cash is essential in smaller towns and rural areas, so it is advisable to withdraw córdobas at ATMs before venturing off the main routes.

Nicaragua has historically been considered one of the safer destinations in Central America for tourists, with petty theft being the most common concern in busy markets and bus terminals. The political environment has been volatile in recent years, and several governments have issued travel advisories recommending caution; checking your home government's current advisory before and during travel is strongly recommended.

Repurposed American school buses, locally known as chicken buses, form the backbone of Nicaragua's public transport network and connect virtually every town at very low fares. Private shuttles and minibuses offer a faster, more comfortable option between popular tourist destinations such as Managua, Granada, and León, while taxis are widely available in cities though negotiating a fare before departure is advisable.

The dry season, running from November through April, is generally considered the best time to visit, with January to March offering the most settled weather, clear skies, and manageable temperatures. The wet season, from May to October, brings afternoon downpours that keep the landscape lush and reduce visitor numbers, though September and October see the heaviest rainfall and occasional tropical storms.

Spanish is the official language and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. English is understood in some upmarket hotels and tour operations in Granada and San Juan del Sur, but outside tourist hubs a working knowledge of basic Spanish phrases will significantly improve your experience.

Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are routinely recommended for travellers to Nicaragua. Yellow fever vaccination is required for visitors arriving from yellow fever endemic countries, and travellers should consult a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure for personalised advice on malaria prophylaxis and other precautions.