Nicaragua is a beautiful and diverse country with stunning landscapes, colonial cities, and warm hospitality. However, safety concerns often arise when planning a trip, especially for American tourists unfamiliar with the region. In this guide, we’ll break down the current safety situation, tips for staying safe, and what you need to know before visiting Nicaragua.
Nicaragua has experienced political instability and civil unrest in recent years, leading to concerns about travel safety. However, as of 2025, the situation has stabilized significantly in most tourist areas. While protests and demonstrations occasionally occur, they are typically localized and avoidable. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can be an issue in major cities, but violent crime against tourists remains relatively low compared to other Central American countries.
The U.S. State Department does warn that it isn't uncommon for tourists to be wrongfully detained. While we were never put in jail or anything that extreme, I did have a police officer threaten to arrest me and we were detained at the border when trying to leave Nicaragua (they wouldn't let us reenter Nicaragua and they wouldn't stamp our paperwork for us to go on to Costa Rica). We wrote more about this over in our blog post about things we wish we knew before traveling to Nicaragua.
Most of Nicaragua’s main tourist destinations are considered safe for travelers, including:
While much of Nicaragua is safe for tourists, some areas require extra caution or should be avoided altogether:
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in Nicaragua, but you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. A small entry fee (typically $10-$13) is charged upon arrival.
Travel Medical Insurance: It’s highly recommended to have comprehensive travel medical insurance that covers medical emergencies just in case something goes wrong. Make sure your policy includes coverage for adventure activities if you plan to go volcano boarding, surfing, or hiking. We highly recommend SafetyWing since they cover everything we typically do abroad and they've always been great about paying out. You can sign up for a free SafetyWing account here.
Yes! Nicaragua is a safe and rewarding destination for travelers who take basic precautions. By staying informed, avoiding risky areas, and respecting local customs, you can enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you're exploring colonial cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, or hiking volcanoes, Nicaragua is an unforgettable adventure waiting to be discovered.
Have you been to Nicaragua? Share your experiences and safety tips in the comments below!
