Reconsider travel to Nicaragua due to COVID-19, civil unrest, crime, limited healthcare availability, and arbitrary enforcement of laws.
Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Nicaragua due to COVID-19.
Nicaragua has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations and re-opening of borders) and business operations (including day cares and schools). Other improved conditions have been reported within Nicaragua. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Nicaragua.
Throughout Nicaragua, armed and violent uniformed police or civilians in plain clothes acting as police (“para-police”) continue to target anyone considered to be in opposition to the rule of President Ortega. The government and its affiliated armed groups have been reported to:
These police and para-police groups often cover their faces, sometimes operate in groups numbering in the hundreds, and use unmarked vehicles.
Rallies and demonstrations in opposition to the rule of President Ortega have been declared unlawful, but nevertheless have occurred. Government forces, uniformed police, and para-police have attacked peaceful demonstrators leading to significant numbers of arrests, injuries, and deaths. Looting, vandalism, and arson have occurred during unrest.
Government hospitals are understaffed. Some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies. Ambulances have reportedly refused to respond or have been denied access to areas with individuals needing emergency care.
Travelers should be alert to the risks of violent crime, such as sexual assault and armed robbery.
Poor infrastructure in parts of the country limit the Embassy’s ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. U.S. government personnel must avoid demonstrations. Additional restrictions on movements by U.S. government personnel may be put in place at any time, depending on local circumstances and security conditions, which can change suddenly.
Read the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Nicaragua:
Last Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information.