Best time to travel to Nicaragua

Location

Climate

Seasons in Nicaragua

Nicaragua's climate is generally tropical, with variations according to altitude and region. There are three main periods: low season, mid season and high season.

Low season

There low season extends from May to October and corresponds to the rainy season. During this period, rainfall is more frequent and temperatures slightly cooler. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that the weather will be bad for the whole period. In fact, showers are generally short and intense, giving way to fine sunshine afterwards. The low season has the advantage of being less touristy, and therefore quieter and more economical.

Mid season

There middle season is between November and December. During these months, the climate becomes progressively drier and temperatures rise. The landscape is particularly verdant thanks to the rains of the preceding months. This is an ideal time to travel to Nicaragua, as tourist sites are less crowded than in high season and the climate is pleasant.

High season

There high season extends from January to April, corresponding to the dry period of the country. Temperatures are higher and there's more sunshine. This is the most popular period for tourists, due to the favorable weather conditions. It is therefore advisable to book in advance to guarantee accommodation and activities to suit your preferences.

Major cultural events in Nicaragua

Nicaragua's rich culture is reflected in its many festivities and events throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights not to be missed during your stay:

Festival de la Purísima (December)

Celebrated in honor of the Virgin Mary, this religious festival is one of the most important in the country. Nicaraguans decorate their homes and take part in street processions, while fireworks light up the night sky. The city of León is particularly famous for its grandiose celebrations during this period.

Holy Week (March or April)

Holy Week is another important religious celebration in Nicaragua, commemorating the passion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Festivities include solemn processions, theatrical performances and special masses in churches. Granada, León and Managua are just some of the cities where you can attend these grandiose ceremonies.

Masaya Carnival (February)

This popular festival celebrates the anniversary of Masaya's foundation and is marked by colorful parades, lively music and traditional dances. The city streets are filled with joy and energy, offering visitors an unforgettable spectacle.

Corn Festival (August)

Corn being an essential food staple in Nicaragua, this festival showcases this precious resource through exhibitions, culinary demonstrations and agricultural competitions. Food lovers won't want to miss this gourmet event!

Public holidays in Nicaragua

Nicaraguan public holidays can affect the opening of shops and tourist sites. Here are the main dates to take into account when planning your trip travel :

• January 1st : New Year's Day
• April 6 : Good Friday
• May 1st : Labor Day
• July 19 : National Liberation Day, commemorating the overthrow of the Somoza dictatorship in 1979
• September 14 : Battle of San Jacinto, celebrating an important victory in the struggle for the country's independence
• September 15 : Independence Day, marking Central America's independence from Spain in 1821
• December 8 : Immaculate Conception, religious feast in honor of the Virgin Mary
• December 25 : Christmas

Immigration statistics for Nicaragua

According to United Nations data, the number ofimmigrants The number of immigrants living in Nicaragua has risen significantly in recent years. In 2021, Nicaragua's immigrant population will number around 73,000, representing almost 1.1 % of the country's total population. Among the most represented nationalities are :

• Salvadorans
• Hondurans
• Colombians
• The Americans
• The Spanish

This rise in immigration to Nicaragua is partly explained by the unstable political and economic situation in certain neighboring countries, prompting their nationals to seek refuge or better opportunities elsewhere. In addition, the relatively low cost of living and investment opportunities also attract foreigners from more developed countries.

Most popular visas in Nicaragua

To enter and stay in Nicaragua, foreigners must obtain an appropriate visa depending on the length of their stay and the purpose of their visit. Among the most popular visas are :

Tourist visa

THE tourist visa is intended for people wishing to visit Nicaragua for tourism, leisure or to visit relatives. It is generally valid for between 30 and 90 days, and can be extended once in the country. Nationals of many countries are exempt from tourist visas for stays of less than 90 days, including citizens of UNITED STATESfrom Canadathe European Union and several Latin American countries.

Work visa

THE work visa is aimed at foreigners wishing to work in Nicaragua. To obtain it, you need to present an employment contract signed by a Nicaraguan employer and meet certain conditions, such as having a diploma or recognized qualification in the trade concerned. The work visa is generally valid for one year, renewable.

Temporary residence visa

This type of visa is intended for people wishing to settle in Nicaragua for a limited period, without engaging in salaried employment. It is particularly popular with retirees, investors and the self-employed. To obtain it, you need to prove that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself for the duration of your stay. Temporary residence is generally valid for between 6 months and 2 years, and is renewable.

Permanent residence visa

THE permanent residence visa is aimed at foreigners wishing to settle permanently in Nicaragua. To be eligible, you generally need to have lived in the country on a temporary residence visa for several years and meet certain conditions, such as having a stable income or demonstrating family ties with a Nicaraguan citizen or permanent resident. Permanent residency confers certain rights, such as the right to work and benefit from public services, but does not grant Nicaraguan nationality or the right to vote.

International tourism figures for Nicaragua

Nicaragua has experienced sustained growth in the international tourism in recent years, before facing a significant drop in 2018, due to the political and social unrest that shook the country. Since then, however, the situation has improved and the tourism sector is gradually recovering. In 2019, Nicaragua welcomed over 1.5 million international visitors, generating revenues of around $544 million. The main sources of foreign tourists are neighboring countries, particularly the United States, followed by Europe and Canada. The most visited sites in Nicaragua are :

• The colonial city of Granada
• The capital Managua
• Masaya volcano
• Ometepe, an island formed by two volcanoes in the middle of Lake Nicaragua
• Pacific coast beaches, such as San Juan del Sur

Tourism is a key sector for the Nicaraguan economy, accounting for around 6 % of GDP and directly or indirectly employing almost 150,000 people. The authorities are seeking to promote the development of sustainable and responsible tourism, capitalizing on the diversity of the country's natural and cultural attractions.