Nicaragua

Travel tips for Nicaragua: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Travelers advise using cards at hotels and larger businesses, but you must carry crisp, untorn USD or local bills for transportation, markets, small vendors, and the mandatory $10 airport entry fee.

Try the food

  • Gallo Pinto: A hearty mix of red beans and white rice fried together with diced onions and bell peppers.
  • Vigorón: A satisfying street food dish of boiled yuca topped with crispy pork rinds and a tangy cabbage slaw, traditionally served on a plantain leaf.
  • Nacatamal: A large, savory tamale made of masa stuffed with marinated pork, rice, potatoes, and tomatoes, all steamed inside a plantain leaf.

Say it in Spanish

  • Hello: Hola
  • Thank you: Gracias
  • Please: Por favor
  • Excuse me: Perdón
  • How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
  • The bill, please: La cuenta, por favor
  • Yes / No: Sí / No
  • Goodbye: Adiós

Essentials

Voltage
120V, 60Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Purchase a prepaid Claro or Tigo SIM card at the airport or local convenience stores, ensuring your phone is unlocked beforehand.

Etiquette

A 10 percent voluntary service charge is often added to restaurant bills, but leaving a small additional cash tip directly for the server is highly appreciated.

Airports in Nicaragua