The Basics
Country: Nicaragua
Where is it?: Central America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Costa Rica and Honduras
Why do people go here?: For many people, Nicaragua is not a destination in its own right yet, rather a stop between neighboring countries. This is in part due to regions of civil unrest and a still-recent history of the Contra War, part of the infamous U.S. Iran-Contra Affair.
What are the main entry points?: Fly into the country or bus to the capital
Currency used: Gold cordoba (NIO)
Country Code: 505
Area codes for Major Cities: Managua 2
Religion: Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant
Population: 6 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Mestizo (mixed Amerindian and white) 69%, white 17%, black 9%, Amerindian 5%
Government: Presidential Republic
Languages: Spanish (official), English and indigenous languages on Atlantic coast
Travel Information
Major Cities: Managua
Attractions: History, Coast, Managua
Accommodation: Nicaragua Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Nicaragua-Instituto Nicaragaense de Turismo (Inturismo) Hotel Intercontinental, 1 cuadra al Oeste y 1 cuadra al Sur Managua +505-2-281-137, +505-2-227-185; FAX +505-2-281-187; //www.intur.gob.ni/
Health Issues: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over 1 year of age coming from infected areas. Malaria risk is high throughout the year in 119 municipalities. Chloroquine is recommended.
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Late spring is part of the dry season, but you can find always find good weather on one of the coasts the rest of the year.
Specific Events/Holidays: Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Getting Around: Bus it, but keep an eye on your wallet.
Cheapest airport to fly into: Nicaragua has plenty of airports but the main airport serving Nicaragua is the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Nicaragua travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
