" Unfortunately there have been problems in Managua lately with robberies. Not only concerning foreigners, but also locals.
It is not as safe as it used to be :(
Thus the recommendation is rather:
- Do not walk around alone or with only 2 people after dark (=6 pm), and never with your luggage.
- Avoid the area around Ticabus-station if you can. Don't walk around in this area.
- Be cautious when taking a taxi. Make sure it is an official taxi (license plate white with red stripes, number of license plate painted onto the side and back of the car).
- Beware of express-kidnapping:
Tourists are approached by a local, often a woman, on overland buses. The woman convinces them to share a ride upon arrival in Managua. The 'taxi' they grab will be attacked by 2 armed people (machete and pistole). The tourist is being taking to several ATM machines and is forced to withdraw money with his credit card. As long as money comes out of the slot. Often several thousand Euros go to the thiefs this way. It can take several hours.
Afterwards the tourist is released. He gets his luggage and often the credit card back. And nearly always the passport - which is really important especially if the return flight goes via the US.
Don't be naive.
But still Nicaragua is definitely not more dangerous than the neighboring countries."
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That includes parts of CR, friends, be aware.
fom a long term ex pat, volunteer and friend living in Managua several years
It is not as safe as it used to be :(
Thus the recommendation is rather:
- Do not walk around alone or with only 2 people after dark (=6 pm), and never with your luggage.
- Avoid the area around Ticabus-station if you can. Don't walk around in this area.
- Be cautious when taking a taxi. Make sure it is an official taxi (license plate white with red stripes, number of license plate painted onto the side and back of the car).
- Beware of express-kidnapping:
Tourists are approached by a local, often a woman, on overland buses. The woman convinces them to share a ride upon arrival in Managua. The 'taxi' they grab will be attacked by 2 armed people (machete and pistole). The tourist is being taking to several ATM machines and is forced to withdraw money with his credit card. As long as money comes out of the slot. Often several thousand Euros go to the thiefs this way. It can take several hours.
Afterwards the tourist is released. He gets his luggage and often the credit card back. And nearly always the passport - which is really important especially if the return flight goes via the US.
Don't be naive.
But still Nicaragua is definitely not more dangerous than the neighboring countries."
--------------
That includes parts of CR, friends, be aware.
fom a long term ex pat, volunteer and friend living in Managua several years