Nicaragua

The crime rate has risen since the April 2018 protests. Street crime and petty theft do occur in Nicaragua. Pickpockets and thefts occur particularly on public transport and around bus stations.

To avoid being targeted, do not wear expensive jewelry or clothing and keep valuables and cash out of sight. Do not carry large amounts of cash.

Exercise caution when using taxis. Use radio-dispatched taxis. If you must get a taxi on the street, use an authorised taxi with red plates and with the driver’s name, photograph and identification number in plain sight on the dashboard. There are reports of passengers using unauthorised taxis being kidnapped and held in exchange for cash. Make note of the number of the taxi and colour before getting in. Agree on the fare first. Avoid sharing a taxi with strangers.

If driving, keep doors locked and windows closed. In Managua, cars have been stopped and robbed at traffic lights.

Do not travel on buses after dark.

Do not walk alone after dark.

Be alert and cautious when out walking, particularly in markets, bus stations, and poorer areas of towns.

Only use hotels that staff the front desk 24 hours a day and have adequate security. Violent attacks against foreigners have occurred in hotels.

Avoid road travel after dark due to the presence of armed bandits, poor road conditions, and poor driving practices.

There are strong currents off the Pacific coast. Rescue equipment is not generally available, and there are no warning signs or lifeguards. Drownings have occurred.

Nicaragua requires that all medications be in the original container and labeled. Those with prescriptions and controlled medication must have a prescription from their prescribing doctor on letterhead stationery and must include the medication’s generic name.

Street crime is common in Managua, Granada, San Juan del Sur, and on Corn Island. Be cautious and alert to your surroundings in the area around the old cathedral in Managua.

Do not hike in remote areas, unless with an experienced guide. Some landmines possibly remain in rural areas of northern Nicaragua in spite of de-mining operations. Avoid leaving main roads. The North Atlantic Autonomous Region (RAAN) is very remote, and some countries advise their citizens to reconsider their need to travel to this area due to drug trafficking, armed banditry, and other serious crime.

In Bonanza, La Rosita, Siuna and Little Corn Island, there have been incidents of violent crime.

There have been reports of attacks on vehicles, including hotel-run buses, along the Managua-Leon, Tipitapa-Masaya and Somotillo-Chinandega highways.

Violent protests and street violence began in April 2018 resulting in a number of deaths and injuries. Police were aggressive in their response and used tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition. The civil unrest has calmed, however, there are underlying political tensions.

Protests, demonstrations, and rallies are no longer permitted. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in local politics, protests, or any perceived anti-government activity.