Nicaragua: Current Travel and Safety Advice for Tourists

The Federal Foreign Office has updated its travel and safety advisories for Nicaragua (as of August 20, 2026). The advice covers several topics relevant to planning a trip to Nicaragua: the domestic political situation, the crime rate, natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and specific legal considerations in the country. Anyone planning a trip to Nicaragua should familiarize themselves with these points in advance in order to realistically assess the risks.

Regarding the domestic political situation, the advisory notes that the situation is currently considered calm, though demonstrations and violent protests cannot be ruled out. Of particular note is the warning that security authorities may arrest individuals or prevent them from leaving the country on charges of alleged money laundering, terrorism, treason, or organized crime—often for political reasons. Travelers should therefore avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and stay informed through local media.

Regarding crime, the report states that while crime rates are low compared to other countries in Latin America, they have recently been on the rise. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching, occurs primarily in areas heavily frequented by tourists, such as Granada, San Juan del Sur, León, and Laguna de Apoyo, as well as at border crossings, bus stations, and the Managua airport. The risk increases further after dark. Thefts also occur more frequently on intercity buses, especially in the Pacific region near Managua and Granada.

Special caution is advised in certain administrative districts: In Nueva Segovia, Madriz, Jinotega, Estelí, Matagalpa, and Río San Juan, there is an increased security risk outside of urban areas. In the autonomous regions of RAAS and RAAN, rates of violent crime are significantly higher than the national average. On the southern Atlantic coast, which includes the tourist destinations of Bluefields, Pearl Lagoon, and the Corn Islands, sexual assaults on travelers have also been reported. Recommendations include keeping valuables secure, paying by card, avoiding walks and taxi rides after dark, and not resisting in the event of an assault.

In addition, the safety advisory highlights natural hazards: Nicaragua is located in a seismically active zone, so earthquakes and volcanic activity—particularly in Managua and León—are not uncommon. All six of the country’s active volcanoes are currently showing activity, although no injuries have been reported so far. On Ometepe Island, the island’s isolation further complicates any potential evacuation in an emergency. From May through November, the rainy and hurricane season brings the risk of flooding, landslides, and disruptions to travel.

For travelers who nevertheless decide to visit Nicaragua despite these conditions, careful preparation is recommended, including valid travel documents and the appropriate visa. You can use our overview of visa types to check which entry requirements apply to your planned trip, and our application form makes it easy to submit your visa application, ensuring that the organizational aspects of your trip go smoothly.