Travelling to Nicaragua? Need Vaccinations?
One of the many great features of Central American countries is the luxury of having two coastlines, one on the Pacific and another on the glittering Caribbean. And since they are both easily accessible, you don’t have to choose just one. Take time to hike up Volcán Conceptión for a breathtaking vista of colonial Grenada, the oldest city in the new world, and her numerous tiny islets. Don’t miss beautiful León, home of Nicaragua’s finest museums, universities and churches, including the grandest cathedral in Central America. If you are bound for the beach, steer towards Lago de Nicaragua,and lounge on one of Nicaragua’s lovely Pacific beaches. At Lookout Point on Little Corn Island are deserted white Caribbean beaches and stunning vistas. Before you are on your way to Nicaragua please pay a visit to our Travel Health Clinic, four to eight weeks before departure, to ensure that you will be completely safe and up-to-date with the Vaccinations you need for Nicaragua.
What Vaccinations do I need for Travel to Nicaragua?
The following travel vaccinations are necessary for travel to Nicaragua:
Diphtheria Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Tetanus Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Polio Vaccine (Given as the combined DTP Vaccine)
Hepatitis A Vaccination
Typhoid Vaccination
If your intended stay in Nicaragua involves a lot of outdoor activity, hiking or camping, you should consider protecting yourself against the risk of malaria. Talk to us at our Travel Health Clinic or book an appointment about the medication that’s right for you. You may also be advised the following vaccinations based on your itinerary:
Please book an appointment at our Travel Vaccination Clinic well in advance of your departure, for more information, and advice on the Vaccinations and precautions we recommend for travel to Nicaragua.
Further Travel Health Advice for Nicaragua
Heat and Humidity
Nicaragua is tropical and very hot, with high humidity at either coast and inland, and temperatures can get into the 30’s. Use sun block and apply it liberally. Remember that the sun can burn you even when you are in the sea. Make a habit of carrying bottled water with you wherever you go.
Drinking Water
The tap water in Nicaragua is heavily chlorinated, and it’s not a good idea to risk drinking it. Mineral water, and bottled or purified water is cheap and is sold everywhere, so it is probably a good plan to drink just bottled water. Do not use ice cubes unless you are sure they are made with purified water.
Food and Drink
Nicaraguan food is quite simple, and very much like its cousin, Mexican cuisine, with rice and beans used in many dishes, as well as standards like tamales, and tortillas. Corn is a main staple here, and you will find cornmeal bread, cornmeal dumplings called Nacatamales, filled with beef, vegetables and rice, and cooked in a banana leaf, and Indio Viejo, a purée of beef with corn flour and vegetables. On the coast, enjoy the fresh caught fish and seafood, often served with rice cooked in coconut milk. Remember to sample some of the exotic fruit available here, like Guava, Cas, and Papaya. The National drink is Flor de Caña, premium rum, and Nicaraguan beers, such as Tona and Brava are light and refreshing.
Seeking Treatment Abroad
If you need health care in Nicaragua, it is always best to use a private clinic. In the capital, the standard of care is quite good, but before you travel to any remote location, it is advisable to check ahead to see what clinics are available. Arrange in advance to have enough money with you to pay for any health care you might need.
Travel and Health Insurance
Protect yourself, and your family, with comprehensive travel health insurance which will cover your intended itinerary and any potentially risky activities.
Personal Safety
While Nicaragua is quite safe, there are certain ways to be sure of your safety. Petty theft is common in just about any tourist area, but more so in the capital. Be cautious, and leave your valuables at home before your trip. Keep your cash and travellers’ cheques secure, and lock ATM doors after entering. Don’t wear flashy jewellery while on tour or at the beach. When visiting coastal areas, remember that unprotected skin puts you at risk for insect bites. Bring a good insecticide spray with you.