A Guide to (Solo) Travel in Nicaragua - From a Female Backpacker's Perspective
- Ilse
- Jun 11
- 15 min read
Updated: Jun 13
Nicaragua is a popular backpacking destination in Central America, rapidly gaining popularity for its diverse landscapes, sense of adventure, and its central placement on the Central America backpacking route that many people follow. Although many backpackers and other travellers I had met while living in Xela, Guatemala said Nicaragua was one of their favourite countries, after visiting I could not disagree more.
I decided to visit Nicaragua together with a friend as we were both on our own solo trips in Central America and Nicaragua was somewhat in the middle. Moreover, I had specifically heard someone talk about the beautiful island of Ometepe and was eager to visit.
I arrived to my first location in Nicaragua after a long shuttle bus ride from Antigua, Guatemala to León, Nicaraga – crossing the border from Guatemala to El Salvador, from El Salvador to Honduras, and the border from Honduras to Nicaragua. Right away, I was surprised by the young backpacking crowd that was apparently drawn to Nicaragua. I guess the days that people started backpacking in the safety of Southeast Asia was over and Central America was now considered just as good of a first introduction to the solo travel life.
In this Nicaragua travel guide, I will take you through everything you need to know about Nicaragua, give you general travel tips for Nicaragua, and give you specific recommendations for in Nicaragua. I will also share my mixed experiences and what I would do differently if I were to visit again.
About Nicaragua
First things first, where is Nicaragua on the map? Nicaragua is located in Central America, bordered by Honduras in the north and Costa Rica in the south. Nicaragua has coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean on the west side and the Caribbean Sea on the east side. Managua, its capital, lies in the western part of the country near the Pacific coast.
Nicaragua's landscape is incredibly diverse, featuring everything from the volcanic mountain ranges of the Pacific coast to the dense rainforests of the Caribbean side. The country boasts large lakes, like Lake Nicaragua, and offers stunning coastlines with both sandy beaches and rocky shores. The architecture in cities like Granada showcases well-preserved colonial buildings, adding to the picturesque scenery.
Why do so many people travel to Nicaragua? What is Nicaragua known for? Nicaragua is mostly known for its stunning natural beauty, which includes lakes, volcanoes, and beautiful beaches. It’s often called the "Land of Lakes and Volcanoes" because of its 19 volcanoes and extensive lake systems.
Like Acatenango and Fuego, and Santa Maria and Santiaguito in Guatemala, Nicaragua even has several active volcanoes. The most notable ones include Cerro Negro, where you can try volcano boarding, and Concepción and Maderas on Ometepe Island, which offer challenging hikes with rewarding views.
For backpackers, however, Nicaragua seems to be known for another reason: its backpacker party scene. In every popular backpacking place within the country there is a special party where you will likely meet backpackers you have met before – from the Treehouse Party near Granada to the not so secret Popoyo Secret in, shocker, Popoyo.
Nicaragua Capital, Language, Religion, Population
Capital: Managua
Language: The official language is Spanish, but English and Indigenous languages are also spoken in some regions.
Religion: The majority of Nicaraguans are Roman Catholic, followed by Evangelical Christianity. Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities may also practice traditional religions.
Population: Nicaragua has a population of around 6.6 million people. The population is a mix of mestizo (people of mixed European and Indigenous descent), along with smaller communities of Indigenous peoples, Afro-Nicaraguans, and people of European descent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nicaragua
What is the currency in Nicaragua? The currency in Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO). U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are available in most cities, but it’s wise to carry cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas.
Can I get a Nicaragua visa online? / What are the visa requirements for Nicaragua? Most visitors can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in Nicaragua, valid for up to 90 days. However, it's essential to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before traveling. Some nationalities may need to apply for a visa in advance, while others can apply online through Nicaragua's electronic visa system.
How safe is Nicaragua? Nicaragua is generally considered one of the safer countries in Central America for travellers, but the experience differs per person and per trip. Obviously, like anywhere, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in urban areas. Petty theft can occur, so it's advisable to keep valuables secure and be cautious when walking alone at night. Political protests can occasionally lead to unrest, so staying informed about local conditions is crucial. Right now, in 2025, it seems you do not have to worry too much about safety when travelling to Nicaragua as a result of political situations.
In terms of feeling safe as a female traveller, however, I would say it is one of the most countries that I have visited where I felt the most uncomfortable – either walking alone or walking with other women. There is a lot of aggressive-feeling catcalling by local men that made me feel unsafe, definitely more than in any other Central American country. Although I have heard other solo female travellers in Nicaragua speak about this too, the catcalling is not even only towards foreigners and travellers. The local population – even very young girls – get catcalled too.
For me, this meant that I quickly started putting on a pokerface and tried to avoid any eye contact with locals when walking. I saw many local women and girls do the same. This bothered me because one of my favourite things about travelling is speaking with people, learning from them and their culture, and being immersed in other environments. The frequent catcalling and my discomfort walking around made that impossible.
It was not just a feeling of safety and it is unfortunately also not limited to women. When I took a local 'chickenbus' from León to Ometepe by myself – which I have done in Guatemala countless of times without problems – one of the bus drivers (!) eyed me down from head to toe with the most sexualizing and objectifying look. Then upon entering he grabbed my (long) skirt and pulled it up – since it was long it only lifted from the floor, but it is safe to say that that busdrive did not feel comfortable and I was eager to get off at the end. And for the ones wondering what I was wearing, which should never matter, I was wearing a long sleeved, loose top and a long, wide skirt.
Later in Peru, I encountered a male solo traveller that visited Nicaragua earlier on his trip. When I told him about why I had disliked Nicaragua, he shared with me an even more violent story that shocked me: on a trip home from a bar in San Juan del Sur, he was physically grabbed and hit by three local women that had insisted on him coming inside to have sex with them.
What is the political situation in Nicaragua? Nicaragua's political situation has been tense in recent years, with periodic protests and government crackdowns. While these issues have impacted some areas, the majority of tourist destinations remain unaffected. Right now, in 2025, there are no special political safety concerns for Nicaragua. However, it's always important to stay updated on current events and avoid any areas where protests may be occurring. Moreover, the topic of politics can be a sensitive topic in Nicaragua, so do not push any questions if people do not want to open up about it.
A more prominent consequence of the political situation for travellers is the fact that politics and questions about politics are a very sensitive topic amongst citizens. Your guides might not answer your question, answer untruthfully for fear of spies (yes!), or feel uncomfortable with the question. Please keep that in mind when asking about politics and respect the locals!
We visited a government-owned history museum in León, which was free to visit. We got a tour – where I translated the whole story from Spanish to English, which was a CHALLENGE with my not-fluent Spanish and my brain was fried after haha – and got... well, a version of that history.
What is the best time to visit Nicaragua? The best time to visit a country in my experience always depends on your intention of visiting. Are you there for holiday, trying to do volunteering, or do you want to surf?
According to most online platforms, the best time to visit Nicaragua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. We went at the very end of the dry season in April... Would I recommend to go at that time? I don't know. I have not been in Nicaragua in other months so I have nothing to compare with and I know from others that Nicaragua is always incredibly hot, regardless of when you go. However, when we were there even the staff from some hostels noted that it was unusually hot and this definitely impacted our experience of the country - more on that later.
The rainy season, from May to October, can also be a good time to visit, especially for surfers seeking larger waves, but some areas may become less accessible. Note that climate change is a harsh reality in these areas. When I visited in 2024, the entire region of Central America saw the rainseason come in unusually late with extremely hot periods right before. This led to floodings due to overly dry, loose earth when the rain finally started. So... check the weather and your routes before you leave!
What is the weather like in Nicaragua? Nicaragua has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The Pacific coast is typically hot and dry, while the Caribbean coast is more humid with more rainfall. Temperatures generally range between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round, but it can be cooler in the highlands and at higher elevations.
When you look at these temperatures, it may seem fine. At least, that's what I thought, having experienced other tropical places like Laos, the Brazilian rainforest, and Ghana. However, the heat in Nicaragua is something else. Everyone I spoke with, including the ones that loved Nicaragua, that had travelled here mentioned the scorching heat as the first thing they remember. And so do I. So the biggest advice I can give you is to always get accommodation with airconditioning!
Is it worth to visit Nicaragua? Although my experience in Nicaragua was not great – besides that I enjoyed spending time with my friend – and I rarely recommend Nicaragua to others, I cannot answer this question for you. If you are travelling to Central America and are trying to decide on a country, I would recommend Nicaragua but would advise Guatemala or El Salvador instead. But if you are travelling from Mexico all the way down to Panama, then skipping Nicaragua makes no sense as it is on your way anyway.
Moreover, it will all depend on the purpose of your trip and what you are planning to do. As a digital nomad, I for example enjoyed my hostel in León and the art museums that the city had to offer. Similarly, the surf house that I stayed at in Popoyo was great for working and it was a great spot to surf. To help you with your decision, let's look into what to do when you visit Nicaragua.
What to Do and Visit in Nicaragua as a Backpacker
The Main Cities for Travellers in Nicaragua
Granada: This is a colonial city known for its colorful architecture, lively markets, and beautiful churches. You can also visit the nearby islands of Lake Nicaragua for a day trip. The biggest reason why I did not like Granada was because when I was there it was excruciatingly hot, making it pretty much impossible to do anything between 9am and 5pm – including the walking tours that usually started at 10am.
León: This city shows the revolutionary history of Nicaragua thought its political murals and musums. You can also visit the cathedral and it is close to Cerro Negro where you can go volcano boarding. I can really recommend doing a walking tour here to learn more about Nicaragua now and its history!
Popoyo: Although most would mention San Juan del Sur here, which is a vibrant beach town popular with surfers and backpackers, known for its laid-back vibe and lively nightlife. I would recommend Popoyo instead. This is a more upcoming surftown with various surf breaks for all levels.
Where To Surf in Nicaragua?
Popoyo: One of the top surfing destinations in Nicaragua, offering waves suitable for all levels. Read everything you need to know about Popoyo in my Slow Travel Guide blogpost!
El Transito: Another popular surf spot in the North of Nicaragua, known for its consistent waves and stunning sunsets.
San Juan del Sur: Offers a range of surf schools and rental shops, making it an ideal place for beginners. You will find many surfcamps here too – I linked one that I went to elsewhere and can really recommend. However, to go to different beaches you have to take small vans which makes it a bit complicated. This spot is also a big backpacker destination, meaning it can get quite crowded also in the line-up.
Natural Parks and Volcanoes in Nicaragua
Masaya Volcano National Park: Masaya is one of the active volcanoes in Central America, like Acatenango and Fuego and Santa Maria's son Santiaguito in Guatemala. Whereas it used to be possible to hike Masaya Volacno and peek into its glowing lava lake, the volcano is now too active making this a dangerous (and therefore illegal) undertaking. There are still various hikes to get close though - definitely do this one with an experienced and/or trained guide.
Cerro Negro: If you have looked into backpacking Nicaragua you most likely have seen the photos of people volcano boarding down a sandy volcano hill. This popular activity can be done on Cerro Negro, a young and active volcano.
Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve: Explore the cloud forest, enjoy the cooler climate, and hike to the summit for panoramic views.
Isla Ometepe
Located in Lake Nicaragua, this island is formed by two volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas. It’s a paradise for nature and adventure lovers, offering activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring coffee plantations. Many travellers rent a scooter to cruise around the island and it is also one of the main 'hippie places' in Nicaragua, similar to hippie town San Marcos in Guatemala but a lot less icky in my experience!
We stayed in four accomodations throughout two weeks. Hostal y Mirador Papasito was amazing and, not unimportantly with the hot temperatures, had a pool! Despite having a high rating, the Emerald Rainbow Caravan hostel we left early because we did not like the energy of the place, there were a lot of mosquitoes, and two backpackers who stayed in the dorm instead of one of the RVs got sand-flee bites (and the host was super unhelpful about it).
Our stays at an eco-farm via Airbnb and at El Pital were much better and especially at El Pital the food was incredible. However, I do have remaining questions with regards to what extent El Pital is sustainable and truly giving back to the community. I saw them clean outside areas with toxic cleaning materials that flowed right into the earth where they grow their vegetables and chocolate, and I heard a horrible story of volunteers that did not get any refunds for their stuff that got burned in a fire.
One major aspect of Ometepe that I did not like is the mistreatement of animals. It is the worst that I have experienced in Central America for sure. Street dogs are aggressive as a result of people hitting them or throwing rocks, leading to the vicious cycle of people being more aggressive to fend them off. This mistreatement is not only limited to dogs, I saw a very young child throw rocks at piglets... If that behaviour is already existent in such young children, that says a lot about the environment they grow up in.
This mistreatment of animals is not limited to Ometepe, also in Granada, for example, my friend and I ate at a restaurant where they kept two turtles in the tiniest fountain, it was heartbreaking to me as they constantly tried (and failed) to crawl out.
Parties In Nicaragua
One of the main backpacker attractions in Nicaragua is its party scene. This is also one of the reasons I actually did NOT like Nicaragua. Every popular backpacking destination has a party, which I will list below, and generally the public consists of all travellers from the age 18-23 average. Yes, the backpacking crowd in Nicaragua is quite young.
Don't get me wrong, I do like parties and especially dancing in Central and South America! The reason I do not like these parties, however, is because they only attract travellers and very few locals. I prefer to travel in an authentic way that allows me to see and experience local cultures, rather than merely a backpacker culture. Moreover, many of these parties are focused on alcohol and since my experience with plant medicine brew ayahuasca I do not like to drink anymore, nor be in alcohol-dominated spaces.
That being said, if you do like to visit a party, here comes a list. However, please consider the impact you are making as a traveller and what these parties mean for locals. Read more on that in another blogpost!
Sunday Funday in San Juan del Sur: This is probably the most famous backpacker party in Nicaragua. It’s a weekly pool-hopping event with stops at different hostels and bars around San Juan del Sur. It’s a massive day-party that attracts travellers from all over, known for its wild and social atmosphere and ocean views.
Treehouse Party in Granada: Held at the Treehouse Hostel, this jungle party is located just outside Granada with shuttles arranged from Granada. It’s set high in the trees, offering an adventurous vibe with hammocks, live music, fire dancing, and a laid-back crowd. It’s a great party for those looking to enjoy nature while socializing. Make sure to book your stay at the Treehouse Hostel well in advance as it is often sold out for the night of the party weeks in advance.
Popoyo Secret: Known as an underground or low-key party, Popoyo Secret is a gathering of surfers and backpackers, often held in remote spots around Popoyo. The party’s exact details can be somewhat elusive, adding to its allure. I considered going to this party but ended up not going, which actually led me to my first paid writing assignment.
Volcano Boarding After-Party in León: After a day of volcano boarding down Cerro Negro, most backpackers head to Bigfoot Hostel, which is famous for its after-parties. It’s a good way to wrap up a day of adventure with drinks and dancing. The biggest reason I did not go volcano boarding was because all the buses going there are party buses – some more intense (read: being fed strong liquor from the bottle) than others. However, the volcano boarding is considered a highlight in Nicaragua by many!
Wet Wednesday Party on Ometepe: Wet Wednesday is a popular backpacker event on Ometepe Island, combining a pool party with music, games, and plenty of drinks. It’s a great mid-week break for travellers exploring the island. This is the only party that I actually went to in Nicaragua and I enjoyed it, especially since the fire show got me in touch with the firespinners on Ometepe, allowing me to spin myself at El Zopilote hostel one week later.
To Conclude: What I Would Have Done Differently
I did not like my experience in Nicaragua as a female traveller – the catcalling and resulting lack of interaction with locals, the young party-going backpacker audience, and the excruciating heat when I was there. So, when you are trying to decide on a Central American country to go to, and are for example looking at Guatemala vs. Nicaragua, I would not recommend Nicaragua at all. If Nicaragua is on your way anyway, choose your destinations in the country based on what you truly want to see or do. And maybe spend some more days in Guatemala or El Salvador if you have to split your time between the them!
However, there are ways to make your stay more enjoyable and different from mine:
First of all, definitely look up the weather and if it is unusually hot or you are going in the hottest season, try to book accommodation near a body of water and/or with airconditioning.
Secondly, if you go I recommend going with a small group of people, preferably including some men. I do not recommend this often as I am a large advocate of solo travel and usually find that phrases like "travelling South America as a solo female traveller" tend to confirm stereotypes or clickbait.
Thirdly, if you are travelling solo, try to get a small group together at a hostel to either take the public transport together - which will be feel and be safer with more people - or even get a taxi together. I usually recommend trying local transportation at least once as it is not only much cheaper than, but also gives you a more authentic travel experience. However, if I happen to make it back to Nicaragua (I doubt it, but maybe Popoyo), I will probably opt for a shuttle when travelling alone.
Finally, take into account that the backpacking crowd in this country is young and that parties are a central element of the backpacker activities. If that is your thing, definitely go (while being mindful of your impact as a visitor for locals!). If not, try looking for alternative destinations or experiences to avoid these environments. Considering that we were not going to the Treehouse Party, my friend and I could have probably skipped Granada and opted for an extra beach destination like El Transito instead. Or if you have the budget and are with a small group, you could rent a car and explore the country by doing some road trips instead.
All in all, I hope that my experiences and the information in this blogpost help you to make an informed decision and help you to prepare you for the best possible stay in Nicaragua if you decide to go.
I am curious to hear about your experiences, so feel free to reach out via Instagram (@iam_allovertheplace), and subscribe to my newsletter if you want to stay updated (max. once a week) on my posts!
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