Managua is the capital and largest city of Nicaragua; it is also the administrative center of the department of the same name. Located on the southwest shore of Lake Managua and in the Department of Managua.
Warnings & Dangers in Managua
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Managua is generally a safe city for travel. The main thing is to use common sense and follow the rules, such as not walking the streets late at night, keeping an eye on your belongings and surroundings, avoiding suspicious people, and not drawing undue attention to yourself.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport in Managua is well-developed but not always safe. Pickpockets are often used in buses. Taxis are reliable and safe if you use a licensed service.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
There are many pickpockets in Managua, especially in tourist spots, bazaars, and train stations. Store valuables in the hotel safe and do not carry a lot of cash with you.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Managua is prone to seismic and volcanic activity, hurricanes, severe storms, and floods. Examine the environment for this risk before you travel to Managua.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
Serious armed robberies and attacks are rare in Managua, but in any case, be careful not to walk the streets alone, especially at night.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
There are no cases of terrorism in Managua history. There is unrest in the city from time to time, so stay away from political rallies and crowds to avoid being attacked.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
The most common scam in Managua is usually associated with fake tours and excursions; sometimes, there is a scam with bank cards. Do not transfer information about yourself and your cards to third parties.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women can travel to Managua safely if they adhere to the rules: do not go out at night, do not go to bars alone, avoid socializing with local men, wear modest clothes, and do not draw attention to themselves with their behavior.
How Safe Is Managua for Tourists?
In Managua, the crime rate is average.
The main problems here are associated with the theft of things, car thefts, and home burglaries.
It is quite safe to move and travel here if you follow the safety rules, do not walk late, do not get into street fights, and do not attract yourself.
Tourists are often targeted by criminals in Managua.
Better to use only a taxi or bus and not walk on unfamiliar residential trails, even in daylight.
It is also recommended that tourists refrain from using foreign currency in local transactions.
Better to have local currency instead of converting money with people on the streets or in non-tourist areas.
Tourists are also advised to follow up on credit or debit card transactions through online banking.
Any suspicious transactions should be reported immediately.
When traveling to the Mercado Oriental, tourists are advised to go in groups and avoid the use of chains, necklaces, and other valuables.
Although Police Officers are available in and around the market, the market tends to be full, and thus, it can be hard to find any person who steals your valuables.
When riding taxis, tourists are strongly recommended closing their windows.
Leaving windows open allows one to be robbed while in the car and exposes one to beggars and other service givers.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Managua?
Visitors to Nicaragua must obtain a visa from one of the Nicaraguan diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or countries that can obtain a visa on arrival. All visitors must hold a passport valid for six months.
Which Currency Is Used in Managua?
The córdoba is the official currency of Nicaragua. It is divided into 100 centavos. The money has a sign: C$ and code: NIO. The first córdoba was introduced in 1912.
How's the Weather like in Managua?
In Managua, the wet season is oppressive and overcast; the dry season is muggy, windy, and mostly clear; and it is hot year-round. The best time to visit Managua, Nicaragua, is during the dry season, between December and April.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Managua?
Augusto C. Sandino International Airport is the main joint civil-military public international airport in Managua, Nicaragua. It located 11 km from the city center. The airport is currently the fifth busiest airport by passenger traffic in Central America.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Managua?
In the city, you can visit Sandino on Loma de Tiscapa, Paseo Xolotlan Promenade, a lake in Puerto Salvador Allende, local markets, and a waterfall with parrots.
Is the Water in Managua Safe to Drink?
The tap water in Managua is not safe to drink. It’s better to boil it or buy bottled water.
Is Uber Safe in Managua?
There is no Uber taxi in Managua. You can use any other local taxi.
