Mexico & Central America
Is Nicaragua safe?
L3Reconsider travel
Is Nicaragua safe?
Everyday crime is lower than in neighbouring countries, but political repression is real: arbitrary arrests, expulsions and confiscations happen. Avoid politics, protests and photographing officials.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 3: Reconsider travel, updated 2026-05-13.
- Homicide rate: 11.3 per 100,000 people (2021, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 16.9 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 118 · Ambulance 128 · Fire 115.
- Solo women: Catcalling is common. Granada, León and San Juan del Sur are easy for solo women; take official taxis at night.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Arbitrary detention or deportation for perceived political activity
- Robbery in unofficial taxis and around Managua's markets
- Strong Pacific currents with no lifeguards
- Active volcanoes and earthquakes
Common scams
- Taxis called by strangers; use radio or red-plate taxis
- Street money changers; change at banks instead
Laws visitors break by accident
- Foreigners may not take part in political activity, including protests or campaigning with blue-and-white flags.
- Owning or flying drones is banned under a 2024 law.
- E-cigarettes and vapes are illegal to import, sell or use.
Safety by place in Nicaragua
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Granada | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| León | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Ometepe | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| San Juan del Sur | 3/5 · Take real precautions |
Quick answers
Is Nicaragua safe for tourists?
Everyday crime is lower than in neighbouring countries, but political repression is real: arbitrary arrests, expulsions and confiscations happen. Avoid politics, protests and photographing officials.
Is Nicaragua safe for solo female travelers?
Catcalling is common. Granada, León and San Juan del Sur are easy for solo women; take official taxis at night.
What is the emergency number in Nicaragua?
Police 118 · Ambulance 128 · Fire 115.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice: Nicaragua
- Government of Canada travel advice: Nicaragua
- Speedtest Global Index: Nicaragua
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.