The civil war in 1979 is what most people associate with Nicaragua. But now is another century and Nicaragua is a different country - it needs viewing from a new perspective. Many places still appeal to the politically and historically interested traveller, but Nicaragua is much more than that. Beautiful rainforests and fantastic beaches are just some of the things this country can offer the tourist. Nicaragua has everything from the big city feel of Managua to the lonely little islands in Lago del Nicaragua.
Find your travel arrangement to Nicaragua here
Region and City Guides
Region:
City:
Facts
Local name
Republica de Nicaragua
Capital
Managua
Size
129,494 square kilometres
Principal Languages
Spanish
Principal Religion
Roman Catholic
Inhabitants
4,812,569
Government
Republic
Geography
Nicaragua is situated between Honduras and Costa Rica in Central America. The Isabella Mountains dominate the northern part, while Lago de Nicaragua spreads over an area of 148 by 55 kilometres in the southwestern part of the country. Central America's largest lake has 310 islands. These islands are famed for their natural beauty.
Travel preparation
Best time to visit
The climate is tropical in most parts of the country, but the mountainous area in northern Nicaragua is somewhat cooler than the rest of the country. The rainy- season runs from June to November - when there is a great risk of hurricanes.
Literature
Lonely Planet Central America on a Shoestring
Local conditions
Weight and Measures
In Nicaragua they use the following units of measurement:
Weight: kilo
Distance: kilometre
Volume: litre, but petrol is measured in gallons.
Weight: kilo
Distance: kilometre
Volume: litre, but petrol is measured in gallons.
Photography
Photography is not allowed at military installations. Otherwise the rule-of-thumb to ask first also goes in Nicaragua.
Drinking water
It's not wise to drink tap-water. It has to be boiled or sterilised before use, even if it's only for ice cubes or brushing your teeth. Bottled water is for sale most places.
Electricity
110 V AC, 60 Hz
Behaviour
Common courtesy is a good thing. Moreover you shouldn't worry that everybody addresses each other 'mi amor', it's not because they're hitting on you. That's just the way you address people of the opposite sex.
Business Hours
Banks are open from 8 am to 4 pm (Monday-Friday) and from 8.30 to 11.30 am (Saturdays).
Shops are open from 9 am to 6 pm (Monday-Friday) and from 9am to 1 pm (Saturdays).
Shops are open from 9 am to 6 pm (Monday-Friday) and from 9am to 1 pm (Saturdays).
Food and drink
Rice and beans are common ingredients in Nicaraguan food. Often you use a tortilla to shovel the food into your mouth instead of knife and fork. The long coastline means plentiful supplies of fish and seafood. Grilled corncobs are also sold at many places in the streets.
Disabled travellers
The much destruction caused by the earthquake and hurricanes Mitch and Joan haven't made life easier for disabled persons in this country. The damaged infrastructure makes it difficult to know whether it is possible for a disabled person to get around. The most important thing to remember is to phone hotels and traffic services in advance to make sure that they have the necessary facilities.
Holidays
New Years Day, 1 January
Labour Day, 1 May
Mothers Day, 30 May
National Liberation Day, 19 July
Fiesta Day, 1 August
San Jacinto Fight Day, 14 September
Independence Day, 15 September
All Souls Day, 2 November
Immaculate Conception, 8 December
Christmas Day, 25 December
Moveable Public Holidays
Holy Thursday, March or April
Good Friday, March or April
Easter, March or April
Labour Day, 1 May
Mothers Day, 30 May
National Liberation Day, 19 July
Fiesta Day, 1 August
San Jacinto Fight Day, 14 September
Independence Day, 15 September
All Souls Day, 2 November
Immaculate Conception, 8 December
Christmas Day, 25 December
Moveable Public Holidays
Holy Thursday, March or April
Good Friday, March or April
Easter, March or April
Accommodation / Hotel
Nicaragua lost quite a few hotels and other places to stay overnight during the earthquake in 1972 and hotels are still scarce in the country. But it is possible to find seaside hotels or motels in most cities. In addition, there are a few hostels, B&Bs and camping sites in the country.
Book your Hotel in Nicaragua here
Book your Hotel in Nicaragua here
Camping
There are camping sites in several of the national parks, and some places there may be camping sites in connection with the beaches around the country.
You'll find motels along the Pan-American Highway and there are seaside hotels and resorts along the coast.
Bed og breakfast or guesthouse
There are a few B&Bs in Nicaragua
Hostels
There are a few hostels in Nicaragua. By enquiring at the following agency you can get information about hostels and other facilities - mainly for young people in Nicaragua:
Local transport
There are domestic Flights between the major cities in Nicaragua. The country also has an elaborate bus transport network, which covers all major cities in the country. You'll find the taxis in the cities, where it's also possible to rent a car most places.
Planes
The national airline is Nica Air, but two other companies also offer Flights, especially between Managua, Bluefield's and Puerto Cabezas
Bus
Buses operate between most cities, but it is wise to book seats well in advance. The buses are infamous for the number of thefts, so it is wise to keep an eye on your belongings while you are travelling.
Trains
There is no railway with passenger trains in Nicaragua.
Taxi
Taxis operate in the cities, especially in Managua. There is no meter in the taxis, so settle the fare in advance if you don't want to be cheated.
car rental
It is possible to rent a car at the airport or in Managua. It's often the best way to get around since the public transport can be very slow and unreliable.
Boat or Ferry
Boats are the only way to reach some destinations on the Caribbean coast and the islands in Lago de Nicaragua. Boats leave for Islas del Maiz twice a week from Bluefield's.
