One of the most common questions I get from fellow travelers planning a trip to Central America is: “Is the water safe to drink?” Nobody wants their trip ruined by stomach issues. During my recent journey through Nicaragua, I decided to see for myself if drinking tap water was a viable option for budget-conscious and eco-friendly travelers.
Here is the breakdown of my experience (with a Brazilian stomach) and Nikki’s (as an American) to help you decide how to handle your hydration while exploring this amazing country. Or watch my video with all the complete tips:
Is it actually safe to drink?
The short answer is: yes, in most major urban areas! While we were exploring Managua, Granada, León, and San Juan del Sur, we filled our bottles directly from the tap and had absolutely no issues.
Travelers often worry about their digestive sensitivity. While I consider my system to be pretty resilient, Nikki has a much more sensitive stomach. Since she drank the tap water and felt perfectly fine throughout the trip, it’s a good sign that the water quality in these cities is reliable for most tourists.
Pro-tips for staying hydrated
Even though the water is generally safe, it’s always smart to follow these rules of thumb:
- Check with your hosts: Before you start drinking, have a quick chat with the staff at your hostel or hotel. They know the local pipes better than anyone.
- Be cautious in rural areas: In remote locations or small villages, the water treatment might not be up to the same standards as in the cities. In those spots, sticking to filtered water is the safer bet.
Why skip the bottled water?
Choosing tap water over bottled isn’t just about convenience; it’s about being a better traveler:
- Save Money: Those small purchases of bottled water add up quickly. By drinking tap water, you can save that cash for a nice meal or an extra tour.
- Eco-friendly Travel: Plastic pollution is a global issue, and recycling infrastructure in Nicaragua can be a challenge. Using a reusable bottle is a simple way to protect the beautiful landscapes you’ve come to see.
If you are heading to Nicaragua, don’t be afraid to use the tap in the main cities. Just bring a sturdy reusable bottle, stay hydrated, and enjoy everything this vibrant country has to offer!
