Nicaragua Travel Insurance Plans

In this article:

• Travel Insurance Plans for Nicaragua
• Nicaragua Travel Tips and Safety Information
• Other Nicaragua FAQs

Travel insurance is not a requirement for entry to Nicaragua, though it is recommended when you are traveling abroad as many U.S. healthcare plans may not provide international coverage. Because medical care may not be adequate or even available in some areas, it’s a good idea to purchase a travel insurance plan that also has emergency evacuation coverage that can help with arranging appropriate medical care if needed. A Travel Guard travel insurance plan can also help with translation assistance, prescription replacement and medical case management should you need it1. Feel more confident traveling Nicaragua with a travel insurance plan knowing you have coverage if certain unexpected events happen.

Travel Guard’s Preferred Plan is a great place for travelers visiting Nicaragua to start since it offers comprehensive travel insurance coverages including trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, baggage coverage and more. If you’re looking for the most protection for your trip, our Deluxe Plan provides the highest benefit limits and most coverages included on the base plan. All of our travel insurance plans come with access to Travel Guard’s 24-hour emergency travel assistance, so you’re not left to deal with certain travel mishaps alone. If you’re hoping to explore Nicaragua through adventurous or extreme activities, consider adding the Adventure Sports Bundle to your plan to ensure you have the coverage you need for those activities.

Travel insurance plans usually cost between 5-7% of the total price of your trip. Several factors come into play when it comes to pricing your plan, which may include the product you choose and the number of travelers in your party. For more details on pricing, check out our article on how much travel insurance costs.

To help ensure travelers to Nicaragua are as safe and informed as possible, Travel Guard has compiled some popular questions asked by tourists visiting the country.

For the latest information related to COVID-19 travel requirements for Nicaragua, please visit the official U.S. Embassy website for Nicaragua.

Nicaragua is a country with diverse landscapes and a rich history that is popular with tourists. Unfortunately, Nicaragua has experienced significant unrest in recent years, with protests sometimes deteriorating into violence. While the situation has improved, there are lingering effects. Most notably, the Nicaraguan government has increased crackdowns on political dissent. In addition to avoiding large gatherings, visitors should refrain from political discussions in person or online. 

In addition to civil unrest, travelers to Nicaragua should be vigilant about both petty and violent crimes. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching and scams are common, especially in crowded areas, near transportation hubs and around popular tourist attractions. Violent crimes, including assault, carjacking and armed robbery, also pose a risk. In addition to practicing situational awareness, keep valuables secure and avoid displaying signs of wealth. It is also advisable to avoid public transportation and to use only prebooked transportation services instead of hailing taxis on the street. It is best to travel only during daylight hours; however, if travel after dark is necessary, book transportation instead of walking.  

Express kidnappings, where victims are forced to withdraw money from ATMs before being released, are a concern in Nicaragua. Victims may be targeted after withdrawing cash from ATMs or in unlicensed taxis. Travelers should take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas, not traveling alone, using reputable forms of transportation and only using ATMs in secure locations during the day.  

Corruption among officials may also impact travelers to Nicaragua. Police officers or individuals posing as officials may solicit bribes. It is important to remain calm and respectful in such situations and to request an official citation if asked to pay a fine. 

Road conditions in Nicaragua can be poor, and local driving practices may be unsafe. Travelers should exercise caution when driving, keep doors locked and windows up and avoid traveling after dark. Nicaragua is also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes and flooding, particularly during the rainy season. It is important to stay informed about weather conditions and have an emergency plan in place. 

All U.S. travelers should consider enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service offered to U.S. citizens traveling and living abroad. Enrolling in this program allows you to receive important information from the embassy as well as helps the embassy contact you in an emergency. 

The official currency of Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan Córdoba, though the U.S. dollar is widely accepted throughout the country. You can exchange currency before departure at a local bank or an airport kiosk before or after your arrival. While debit and credit cards are widely accepted, some vendors may only take cash, so be sure to have a small amount of Nicaraguan Córdobas on your person. Finally, be sure to let your bank know of your travels to help ensure you have access to your accounts.

Spanish is the official language of Nicaragua, though English and other indigenous languages are spoken along the Caribbean coast. For best practice, be sure to learn common sayings and phrases before your trip and download a translator app that works offline to avoid communication issues.

Visas are not required for tourists who are visiting Nicaragua for less than 90 days; however, a valid passport with a blank page is required for entry along with a tourist card which is available for purchase at the airport for $10 USD.

The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua is located in Managua. Visit the official U.S. Embassy government website for a list of up-to-date phone numbers and addresses.

Nicaragua has warm temperatures year-round with the hottest months lasting from March to May when the average temperature is around 90 °F. November to January typically have temperatures around 65°F. The most rainfall occurs from May to October while the dry season for Nicaragua is from November to April.

November to May is typically the best time of year to visit Nicaragua as it’s when the country has its dry season allowing travelers to experience sunny days and warm temperatures on their vacations. If you don’t mind the rain, visiting during the country’s wet season can help you find better deals on travel packages and flights.

The dial code for Nicaragua is +505 which can be used to connect to landlines and cellphones in the country. When calling from the U.S. be sure to use the exit code of +011 followed by the dial code, zip code and seven-digit number of your contact. When calling from Nicaragua to the U.S., use +01 followed by the 10-digit number you’re trying to reach. Be sure to let your phone provider know of your travels to help ensure you have service and avoid service fees.

Travelers do not need a transformer when visiting Nicaragua as the voltage is similar to the U.S., though a plug adaptor is needed if your electronics have three prongs. We recommend a universal adaptor that can be used on other trips in the future.

Nicaragua is a great vacation for families of all ages. Before traveling with a baby to Nicaragua, be sure to talk to your doctor about any vaccination requirements your baby may need before traveling. Visit the official CDC website for more information on infant travel to Nicaragua. 

Nicaragua can be a great vacation for female solo travelers, just be sure to do research on the areas where you are planning to travel and follow recommended safety precautions from the U.S. Department of State. Get additional safety advice for female travels from Travel Guard.

Travel Guard offers comprehensive and customizable travel insurance plans for travelers visiting Nicaragua. With excellent coverage and specialized emergency travel assistance representatives ready to help you at any time, Travel Guard is there for you. Compare our popular plans and find the best one for you!

¹Expenses incurred from third-party vendors for assistance services not part of a filed insurance plan are the responsibility of the traveler.