Secure Cheap Flights to Nicaragua for Your Next Central American Adventure

December to February marks the peak of the dry season. Expect clear skies and perfect weather for outdoor adventures, though flight prices are typically higher.

March and April are the hottest months. This period coincides with Holy Week, featuring incredible street art and religious processions across the country.

From May to August, the landscape turns emerald green. While there are daily showers, they are usually brief, and flight deals are more common.

September to November can be wet, but it is the best time for budget travelers to find the lowest airfares and quietest attractions.

Brazilian citizens do not need a visa for short tourist stays in Nicaragua. However, you must purchase a tourist card upon arrival at the airport for approximately 10 USD. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date. You must also provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination if traveling from Brazil, as this is a mandatory health requirement for entry. Keep your vaccination certificate with your travel documents at all times. While no formal visa is required, having a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay is recommended to avoid any issues at immigration. Always check for the latest updates before you book flights to Nicaragua to ensure entry rules have not changed.

Navigating Nicaragua involves a mix of public buses, known as chicken buses, and private shuttles. Chicken buses are former North American school buses and offer the most authentic and affordable way to travel between cities like Managua and Granada. For longer distances or comfort, private shuttles are available and can be booked through local agencies. In cities, taxis are common, but it is standard practice to share the ride with others heading in the same direction. Always agree on the fare before entering the vehicle as meters are not used. For those visiting Ometepe Island, regular ferries depart from San Jorge. If you are heading to the Corn Islands, domestic flights are the most efficient option. Renting a car is possible but requires caution due to varying road conditions and local driving habits.

Nicaraguan food is hearty and centers around corn, beans, and rice. The national dish, Gallo Pinto, is a flavorful mix of fried rice and beans typically served at breakfast with eggs and tortillas. You should try Nacatamales, which are large corn dough tamales stuffed with meat and vegetables, usually enjoyed on weekends. For a unique snack, look for Vigorón, consisting of cabbage salad, boiled yuca, and pork rinds served on a banana leaf. Street food is widely available and very affordable, but choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness. Tropical fruits like pitaya and calala are used in refreshing drinks called refrescos. Unlike the coffee culture in Brazil, Nicaraguan coffee is often enjoyed black or with a small amount of sugar, showcasing the high-quality local beans grown in the northern highlands.

Nicaragua is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions apply. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas of Managua and keep valuables out of sight. Be aware of common scams involving overcharging for taxi rides or unofficial guides at major tourist sites. Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting churches and always asking permission before taking photos of residents. Nicaraguans are known for their hospitality and politeness; a simple greeting like Buenos Dias goes a long way. To explore like a local, visit the municipal markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and a glimpse into daily life. For the best photos, head to the bell tower of the Merced Church in Granada at sunset for a panoramic view of the city and Mombacho Volcano. TICKETS.COM.BR recommends keeping digital copies of your documents.