Town in Rivas, Nicaragua
Healthcare in San Juan del Sur: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in San Juan del Sur
Basic clinics in town; serious cases go to Rivas or Managua, where private hospitals are better. Carry insurance with evacuation cover.
Hospitals for foreigners in San Juan del Sur
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Gaspar García Laviana (Rivas) | Public hospital about 30 min away |
| Private clinics in San Juan del Sur | Minor care; confirm cost before treatment |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: C$400–900 ($11–24) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Nicaragua: The best care is at private hospitals in Managua; elsewhere facilities are basic. Private hospitals expect upfront payment, often in cash, so carry insurance with evacuation cover.
- Pharmacies: Kielsa, Saba, MEDCO and FarmaValue chains are common; many medicines are sold without prescription.
- Health spending: US$217 per person a year (2023); 0.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2018), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 118 · Ambulance 128 · Fire 115.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Nicaragua, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in San Juan del Sur for foreigners?
Hospital Gaspar García Laviana (Rivas): Public hospital about 30 min away
How much does a doctor's visit cost in San Juan del Sur?
About C$400–900 ($11–24) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Nicaragua?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Nicaragua expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about San Juan del Sur
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Nicaragua
- Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo (INTUR)
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.