Nicaragua
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 7.01 million people live in Nicaragua, on 120,340 km². The capital is Managua.
- Capital
- Managua
- Population
- 7,007,502
- Area
- 120,340 km²
- Official languages
- Spanish
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Nicaragua?
Sockets take plug type A/B, at 120 V and 60 Hz.
That is lower than Europe's 230 V: phone and laptop chargers handle it, but check hair dryers and the like.
What is the emergency number in Nicaragua?
Call 118 for the police, 128 for an ambulance and 115 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Nicaragua?
About 10 %.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Nicaragua?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Nicaragua?
Prices are in Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO).
What language do they speak in Nicaragua?
Official languages: Spanish.
How do I call a number in Nicaragua from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +505.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
