North and Central America and Caribbean

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.  

 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

Crime

 

Nicaragua has experienced a significant rise in thefts, break-ins and muggings since the beginning of 2008. Street crime is prevalent in Managua and occasionally occurs in other large towns.  Violent crime is on the increase.  Pickpockets and thieves operate on public transport.  Robberies are common in and around bus terminals, both for local and international routes.  Many criminals have weapons, and most injuries and deaths have resulted when victims have resisted.  If you are robbed, you should inform the local police and obtain a signed and sealed copy of their report.

 

Taxi muggings, particularly against foreigners, are a relatively new and worrying trend.  You should also be aware that there have been reports of "express kidnappings" occurring in Nicaragua involving passengers using unauthorised taxis, where cash is demanded for release a short while later.

 

Where possible use radio-dispatched taxis.  If you are getting a taxi on the street, be sure to choose an authorised taxi, which has red plates.  Only use taxis that have the driver’s identification number, name and photograph clearly visible on the dashboard.  You should take note of the colour and number of the vehicle.  Although it is customary in Nicaragua to share taxis with strangers, you are advised to try to arrange a private journey with the driver.  Always negotiate the fare with the driver before the journey.

 

There have been several reports of cars being stopped and passengers assaulted at traffic lights in Managua.  While stopping at traffic lights in Managua it is recommended to keep the windows of your car closed.  Car doors should also be locked from the inside when driving.

 

You should not to travel on buses after dark.

 

You should take precautions when walking, particularly in the markets, bus stations and poorer areas of the town and especially in the vicinity of the old cathedral in Managua.  Do not walk alone after dark.

 

Avoid wearing jewellery.  Do not carry large amounts of cash, credit cards or other valuables.

 

Keep photocopies of valuables such as passports (including date of entry stamp), airline tickets, driving licence and travellers’ cheques separate from originals.

 

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 

Political Situation

 
Nicaragua Country Profile

As a result of proposed changes to the Nicaraguan constitution allowing the current President to seek re-election, demonstrations by both pro-Government and opposition groups are scheduled to take place on 21 November 2009 in Managua and other parts of the country.  These demonstrations are likely to lead to violent clashes and should be avoided.

Municipal elections took place throughout Nicaragua on 9 November 2008. These elections were followed by demonstrations and political rallies with opposition groups questioning the authenticity of the results.   There were violent clashes reported in Managua and Leon.  An attempted protest by opposition groups in Managua on 18 November 2008 provoked further violence between opposition supporters and those from the ruling FSLN party.  Earlier this year, a demonstration on 28 February 2009 turned violent resulting in the Opposition Deputy Leader, Luis Callejas, being taken to hospital with serious head injuries after being struck by a large rock.  Others were also hurt.  

You are advised to avoid all large public gatherings and monitor local media reports. Previous demonstrations have affected access to and from the airport. Roadblocks may occur on main roads disrupting movement around the city as well as at other points around the country.

Local Travel

Road Travel

 

Road safety, or lack of it, is probably the biggest single hazard to travellers in Nicaragua.

 

Road conditions are generally poor, particularly during the wet season when large potholes can appear overnight.  There is no street lighting on the main highways between major cities and only minimal street lighting in urban areas.  Driving standards and the conditions of vehicles are poor, particularly those of taxis and buses.  Many vehicles do not have rear, brake or indicator lights.  Running traffic lights whilst at red is common practice.  Drink driving is a severe problem.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

 

Air Travel

 

There is 32 US Dollar departure tax (the departure tax is normally included in the price of your air ticket).

During the wet season (April to October) you are advised to fly to and from the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua on early morning flights, because of the risk of severe storms later in the day.

 

Swimming/Water Sports

 

You should exercise caution if swimming or participating in other water activities.  Strong currents off sections of Nicaragua's Pacific coast have resulted in a number of drownings.  Warning signs are not posted and lifeguards and rescue equipment are not readily available in Nicaragua.

 

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.