If you are planning a trip to Nicaragua, one of the biggest questions on your mind is probably: “Is it safe to drive there?” I’ll admit I had my own doubts before landing, but after spending five days exploring the country behind the wheel, I was extremely pleasantly surprised.
Today, I want to share everything I learned about driving in Nicaragua as a tourist, from renting the car to my (unexpected) encounter with the local police. Or watch my video with all the complete tips:
What are the roads like in Nicaragua?
I’ll be honest: the roads surprised me. In the Pacific region and between the major cities, the asphalt is excellent quality. If you have ever driven in chaotic places like Tunisia or Kenya, you will find Nicaragua to be a true paradise.
Unlike what we see in many other destinations, people here drive very calmly. You don’t see that madness of people overtaking on the sidewalk or driving into oncoming traffic. The flow is smooth, and outside of the major urban centers, the roads are generally quite empty.
The Challenge of Managua
The capital, Managua, is the only place where the stress levels go up a bit. Like any large Central American capital, traffic is heavy and requires more attention. However, if you are already used to driving in big cities back home, it’s nothing out of the ordinary.
Car Rentals and Mandatory Insurance
We rented our car directly at the airport, and the process was very smooth. However, here is a warning for your budget: there is a mandatory insurance (around $11 to $12 USD per day) that you simply cannot avoid, even if you have rental insurance through your credit card.
- How much does it cost? The base rental was about $18 USD per day, plus the $11 USD for insurance.
- Is it worth it? If you are not traveling alone and have limited time, a car gives you a level of freedom that public transport just can’t match.
Encounter with the Police: Corruption or Peace of Mind?
Many people fear the police in Central America due to a reputation for bribery. During my trip, I had a direct encounter: I made a prohibited U-turn because Google Maps told me to.
The police pulled me over, but upon seeing my Brazilian passport, the officer was extremely polite. He simply advised me to be careful and didn’t issue a fine or ask for any kind of bribe. It was an experience based on respect, which made me feel much more relaxed for the rest of the trip.
Pro-Tips for Your Road Trip
- Respect the speed limits: The police actually enforce them, and if you are speeding, you will be pulled over.
- Watch out for motorcycles: They are everywhere, although there are fewer than in places like Brazil.
- Use Google Maps with caution: It might suggest illegal maneuvers (as happened to me). Always keep an eye on the local road signs.
The Bottom Line: Driving in Nicaragua is much less stressful than it seems. If you want the freedom to visit the beaches and historic towns on your own schedule, renting a car is the right move!
