Nicaragua Level 3 Travel Advisory Issued

The US Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for the Central American country of Nicaragua. 

This ‘Reconsider Travel” advisory for Nicaragua was issued on April 3, 2019. 

The Department of State says ‘Throughout Nicaragua, armed and violent uniformed police or civilians in plain clothes acting as police (“para-police”) continue to target anyone considered to be in opposition to the rule of President Ortega.’ 

Additionally, this Travel Advisory says ‘Some hospitals throughout the country may not be able to assist in emergencies. Ambulances have reportedly refused to respond or have been denied access to areas with individuals needing emergency care. 

On March 30, 2019, the US Embassy issued a Demonstration Alert, directed personnel to avoid Metrocentro mall, Metrocentro traffic circle, and the surrounding areas until further notice. 

And, the US Embassy has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in emergencies. U.S. government personnel must avoid demonstrations and require special permission to travel beyond a 3-hour drive from Managua. 

Separately, the UK government's travel advisory updated on February 8, 2019, said that ‘Visitors to Nicaragua should exercise a high degree of caution.’ 

And, since there is no British Embassy in Nicaragua, if British citizens need emergency consular assistance, they should contact the British Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica. 

Further, the Canadian government issued an ‘Exercise a high degree of caution’ when visiting Nicaragua notice on March 29, 2019. 

If you decide to travel to Nicaragua, the US Department of State says:

• Avoid demonstrations and restrict unnecessary travel.
• Do not attempt to drive through crowds, barricades, or roadblocks.
• Maintain adequate supplies of food, cash, potable water, and fuel in case you need to shelter in place.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Always have a contingency plan for emergency situations, and review the Traveler’s Checklist. Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and available if needed.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on March 29, 2019, to ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines such as the MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot. 

Travel vaccines, medications, and counseling services are available at certified pharmacies in the USA. Travel appointments can be easily scheduled at Vax-Before-Travel.