Travel Vaccines and Advice for Nicaragua
Nicaragua is often referred to as “the land of lakes and volcanoes” because of its chain of volcanoes that runs from the north to the south along the country’s Pacific side and the high number of lakes. The biological diversity and warm tropical climate make Nicaragua a popular tourist destination. With misty volcanoes, gorgeous beaches and dense rain forests, Nicaragua has much to offer.
You can fill your trip with a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, kayaking, swimming and zip lining. If you want a more laid back vacation, you can go to the Corn Islands for some nightlife and lying out on the beach.
Want to see some incredible wildlife? Take a boat into the Indio Maiz Biological Reserve, the largest area of untouched rain forest north of the Amazon. Check out León or Granada for colonial architecture and local attractions. Have a cup of Nicaraguan coffee and enjoy the scenery while you’re soaking up the country’s culture and history.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Nicaragua?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Nicaragua
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nicaragua?
What Is the Climate Like in Nicaragua?
How Safe Is Nicaragua?
Ometepe Island
What Should I Take to Nicaragua?
U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua
Do I Need Vaccines for Nicaragua?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Nicaragua. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Nicaragua: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Active transmission is reported in the region but is uncommon. Travelers to more rural regions should be vaccinated. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Nicaragua |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Active transmission is reported in the region but is uncommon. Travelers to more rural regions should be vaccinated. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Nicaragua |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a potentially life-threatening illness spread through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is a critical preventive measure, especially for travelers heading to endemic regions or individuals with an increased risk of exposure.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus, often spread through contaminated food or water, or via direct contact with someone infected. It leads to liver inflammation, potentially impairing its function, and manifests as symptoms like tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. The vaccine for hepatitis A offers robust protection against this virus. It is typically given in two doses over a six-month period and is advised for those traveling to regions with higher risk or for people more likely to come into contact with the virus.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes and can also spread through other means like blood transfusion. To prevent it, use mosquito repellents or wear protective clothing. Vaccination is available and considered the best form of protection.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a vital tool in the prevention of this liver infection, recommended for all travelers and essential for healthcare workers and those at higher risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
Malaria in Nicaragua
Malaria primarily spreads in the Region Autonama Atlantico Norte and Atlantico Sur in Nicaragua. Rare cases occur in other regions. No malaria is found in Managua. Atovaquone, chloroquine, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if traveling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
If you are visiting low-altitude areas malaria can be a risk. Consider getting an antimalarial medication from your local Passport Health travel health specialist.
Zika virus is present in Nicaragua. Women who or pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Dengue, another mosquito-borne disease, is also present in the country. Take extra precautions including bringing mosquito repellents and using bed netting.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Nicaragua
Prevent Bug Bites in Nicaragua
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Nicaragua
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travelers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Infections To Be Aware of in Nicaragua
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, transmitted by kissing bugs, can be prevented through insecticide use and insect avoidance.
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand fly bites, can be prevented by adopting protective measures such as using insect repellents, covering exposed skin, and staying indoors when sand flies are active.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, can cause mild to severe symptoms and poses significant risks during pregnancy. Prevention strategies include using insect repellent, safe sex practices, and avoiding travel to affected areas.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nicaragua?
A visa is not required for Nicaragua, but you will need to buy a tourist card on arrival. These cards are given at customs checkpoints. If you would prefer to skip the line, visas are available for U.S. travelers.
Nicaragua Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Nicaragua? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
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Sources: Embassy of Nicaragua and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Nicaragua?
Nicaragua is divided into three areas: Pacific lowlands, highlands, and Caribbean lowlands. Each of these areas has a different climate with the differences in elevation. Here’s what the climate is like in a few of the major cities in Nicaragua:
- Managua – The capital has a tropical climate with constant temperatures in the 80’s and 90’s. Between November and April there is a dry season. Most rainfall occurs between May and October. Temperatures reach their highest in the dry season.
- León – January to March there are dry periods and from April to December there is a rainy season. December is the wettest month and on average the temperature is high, between the 80’s and 90’s. The warmest month of the year tends to be April, pack for the heat.
- San Juan del Sur – This popular destination has a tropical savanna climate. Temperature average between the 70’s and 80’s. With its elevation, there is rarely a change with seasons during the year.
How Safe Is Nicaragua?
There is no travel warning listed for Nicaragua. But, there is a high violent crime rate. Exercise caution while traveling.
Nicaragua’s government is authoritarian; it limits freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Demonstrations happen throughout the country and many have turned violent in the past. For safety, try to avoid large gatherings and potential demonstrations.
Violent crimes such as vehicle burglaries, armed robberies, and pick-pocketing are not uncommon. Crime rates are high in the cities with street crime being common in Puerto Cabezas and Bluefields. Outside of the major cities police presence is limited. Be careful when venturing outside of popular tourist and urban areas.
Know the local laws of where you’re traveling. Keep your documents on hand, and have embassy information with you in case of emergencies.
Ometepe Island
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Ometepe Island is a great place for tourists who love nature and outdoor activities. It is an island located in Lake Nicaragua, the biggest lake in Central America. It is unique because it has two big volcanoes, Concepcion and Maderas, which offer great hiking and biking opportunities.
Tourists can explore the lush rainforest, see wildlife like howler monkeys and parrots, and visit the Charco Verde Nature Reserve. They can also visit the natural spring-fed pool, Ojo de Agua, and the San Ramon waterfall. Tourists can learn about the island’s culture and history by visiting the small villages, museums, art galleries and local handicraft shops.
Ometepe Island is a fun and educational destination for tourists who enjoy nature, culture and outdoor activities.
What Should I Take to Nicaragua?
Your clothing will definitely depend on the time of year you visit. Depending on the region you visit you may have a very hot temperature or a cooler one. Here are a few essentials you should bring with you when you travel to Nicaragua:
- Umbrella/Raincoat – If you’re traveling to Nicaragua during the wet season, pack a small umbrella or a raincoat.
- Lightweight Clothing – The temperature averages are relatively high in Nicaragua year round. Having lightweight, breathable clothing will keep you cool in the heat. Make sure you include long pants in your luggage. Shorts are seldom worn by adults except in more relaxed areas such as at the beach or in your home. If you’re going to tour churches be sure your clothing is modest.
- Sunscreen – Nicaragua is along the equator, making it very hot and sunny a majority of the time. Take precautions and pack a sunscreen with a high SPF.
U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), with the U.S. Department of State. This free program offers information from the embassy on safety conditions and will help locate you in an emergency.
U.S. Embassy Managua
Km 5 ½ Carretera Sur
Managua, Nicaragua
Telephone: +(505) 2252-7100
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(505) 2252-7100
Fax: +(505) 2252-7250
Email: ACS.Managua@state.gov
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Nicaragua
“I went on a last minute mission trip to Nicaragua, deciding on a Thursday afternoon to leave the coming Saturday morning. They got me an appointment and the whole ordeal went very smoothly. I could tell they were honest and only wanted me to have what was needed or what would kick in by the time I needed it to. The doctor knew what she was talking about and was so helpful explaining everything.”
“Excellent visit. The nurse was fantastic and took great concern in explaining to me the required vaccinations and potential issues I could see in Nicaragua. he was fantastic!”
“The nurse was very knowledgeable and explained everything that we asked her. She made us very comfortable and aware of what to expect when traveling on our first trip to Nicaragua. Both my husband and I would highly recommend her.”
“I brought my daughter in for some immunizations before her trip to Nicaragua. Everyone in the office was very friendly and pleasant. I had a lot of questions, our nurse was very patient and really made the experience very easy.”
“My experience was great. This was my first time going to a travel health/clinic. The nurse was very attentive and was very informative with regards to my flight to Nicaragua. She did her research.”
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