No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeTopicsLatin AmericaU.S. Warns Americans to Avoid Nicaragua Amid Authoritarian Risks

U.S. Warns Americans to Avoid Nicaragua Amid Authoritarian Risks

The U.S. State Department is urging Americans to skip travel to Nicaragua due to increasing authoritarianism that puts tourists at risk. The Level 3 travel advisory, active since December 2024, points to arbitrary law enforcement, possible wrongful detentions, and limited healthcare, making the country a dangerous destination despite its budget-friendly appeal compared to Costa Rica.

Nicaragua’s low costs, unspoiled beaches, and draws like surfing and birdwatching have earned positive travel coverage, but U.S. officials held a briefing recently, to push back against the hype. They warned that the authoritarian regime creates serious hazards for travelers, including unpredictable legal actions and restricted freedoms.

The advisory highlights harsh prison conditions, opaque judicial processes, and politically driven arrests, especially targeting those tied to nonprofits, religious groups, or journalism. Since 2018, over 5,300 civil society groups have been shut down, and U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, have faced entry bans, expulsions, and device seizures. Some Americans were denied entry for minor affiliations, like a journalism degree listed online.

Healthcare is another concern. Managua has one accredited private hospital, but medical services elsewhere are scarce, and government hospitals are understaffed. Tap water is often unsafe, and poor infrastructure limits emergency consular support.

Spanish-language media reported Nicaragua’s government dismissing the advisory as U.S. meddling, but human rights groups have documented ongoing repression under President Daniel Ortega, with over 2,000 political prisoners since 2018. Nicaragua’s tourism, generating $750 million in 2024, lags behind Costa Rica’s 1.2 million visitors in 2025 due to these issues.

The advisory, one step below the “do not travel” Level 4, recommends keeping valid passports, avoiding protests, and preparing supplies for potential sheltering. Travelers are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts and to exercise caution if visiting despite the warning.

Trending Now

Trump Authorizes CIA Ops in Venezuela as US Weighs Land Strikes

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday authorized CIA operations against Venezuela and said he was considering carrying out ground attacks against drug cartels...

Paris Louvre Robbery Targets Apollo Gallery Crown Jewels

Robbers wielding power tools scaled a furniture hoist outside the Louvre to make off with priceless jewelry from the world-renowned museum on Sunday, taking...

Trump Says He Will End US Aid to Colombia as Tensions Spike

United States President Donald Trump on Sunday accused his Colombian counterpart, Gustavo Petro, of tolerating drug production and announced he would end “large-scale payments...

Costa Rica’s Blue Carpet event unites Leaders for Ocean Innovation and Tourism

On Friday, the Costa Rican Fishing Federation (FECOP) held the second edition of La Alfombra Azul, an event created to celebrate innovation, science, and...

How to Grow Broccoli Successfully in Costa Rica’s Highlands

In Costa Rica's cooler highland regions, home gardeners harvest fresh broccoli that brings a distinct flavor to everyday meals. This vegetable packs vitamins A,...

JetBlue Flash Sale: Fort Lauderdale to Liberia Flights Ends Today

Those looking for a deal on airfare and eyeing a trip between Florida and Costa Rica now have a chance to get one with...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica