Safety is a matter of concern for many, especially with Nicaragua receiving significant media attention. Nevertheless, daily life in Nicaragua remains characterized by its normalcy, tranquility, and overall safety. Although there are currently no ongoing political demonstrations, it is advisable to steer clear of them if they happen to arise and avoid engaging in political discussions. With that said, Nicaragua is a safe destination for foreigners, and Granada continues to be a popular choice among backpackers from Europe and the USA. As you explore the city, you will encounter numerous fellow travelers, including solo adventurers.

While Nicaragua boasts a lower crime rate compared to several European countries and the USA, petty theft is a concern. It’s essential to lock your front doors and keep a watchful eye on your belongings, rather than leaving them unattended on chairs. Tourists are sometimes viewed as easy targets, but exercising common sense can significantly reduce such risks. Volunteers are strongly advised not to carry valuable items like ATM cards, cameras, or iPods when not in use; it’s best to leave them in your room.

For added safety, we recommend that volunteers avoid walking alone after 9 PM and refrain from accepting rides, hitchhiking, or taking taxis after this hour. Even when traveling in groups of two or three, adhering to this guideline remains prudent.

Female volunteers may encounter frequent whistles, hisses, and names such as ‘muñeca,’ ‘princesa,’ or ‘chela’ (for white women). Additionally, you may hear locals practicing their English with phrases like ‘I love you, baby.’ While this can be quite bothersome, it appears to be indiscriminate, regardless of your appearance or age. Local women also face such unwanted attention.

Despite Nicaragua’s strong religious background, its people tend to be open-minded and tolerant. However, the LGTB community in Nicaragua encounters challenges and inequalities, often leading to misunderstandings. While Granada is known for its liberal and inclusive atmosphere, LGTB volunteers may still exercise caution. Volunteers of black or Asian backgrounds may receive stares or occasional name-calling in the streets. Regrettably, these comments, although uncomfortable, are commonplace and generally lack discriminatory or racist undertones; curiosity is usually the driving force. Additionally, it’s worth noting that if you’re from Europe, North America, or Australasia, you may be referred to as a ‘gringo/gringa,’ a non-offensive term that’s used regardless of your language or skin color.

Nicaragua is susceptible to natural disasters, with earthquakes being one of the most common occurrences. While Granada is not typically strongly affected due to its distance from the epicenters, occasional tremors are possible, so awareness is key. Historically, Granada has not been prone to hurricanes or flooding.

At La Esperanza, we pride ourselves on being a friendly and welcoming team. We are always available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

In Granada, you’ll find a network of reputable doctors, dentists, well-stocked pharmacies, and a public hospital. In the capital city of Managua, there is a private hospital that adheres to first-world standards and is accepted by most travel insurance providers. Many volunteers come prepared with travel insurance that covers emergencies, and some tourists even visit Nicaragua for cost-effective dental procedures.

The tap water in Granada is safe to drink, and most volunteers consume it without issue. However, if you prefer bottled water, it is widely available and budget-friendly.

It’s not uncommon for travelers to experience stomach discomfort when they first arrive in Nicaragua while their bodies adjust to the local food and water. Although not everyone goes through this, it typically subsides within the initial week of your stay.

As of May 2023, travelers must provide proof of Covid vaccination or a negative RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours before entering Nicaragua. The country has eased many of its Covid restrictions, with mask-wearing mandatory only in health centers and hospitals.

If you’re traveling from Europe or North America, no additional vaccinations are mandatory. However, we recommend keeping your tetanus vaccination up to date, especially considering that the learning centers are situated in semi-rural areas. Additionally, if you’ve visited Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, Venezuela, Paraguay, Peru, or any African country except the Democratic Republic of Congo, São Tomé and Principe, Somalia, and Tanzania, you’ll need a yellow fever certificate. This requirement applies to both Nicaraguan and foreign nationals who have spent more than 12 hours in any of these countries, including those in transit.

While Granada itself is free from malaria, there have been sporadic cases of zika and chikungunya fever, along with a growing number of dengue fever cases. It is advisable to take precautions against mosquitoes.

Most over-the-counter medications are readily available at pharmacies in Nicaragua. However, if you require a specific or less common medication, it’s wise to bring it with you for your convenience.

La Esperanza does not directly provide accommodation; however, we are committed to assisting our volunteers in finding suitable living arrangements. Volunteers typically opt to rent apartments or rooms, stay at hostels, or live with host families.

One of the advantages of volunteering in Nicaragua is the affordability of many hostels. Our team can provide valuable recommendations for your consideration. It’s relatively easy to find budget-friendly private rooms at hostels, even for extended stays.

If you’re interested in renting an apartment, you can search for “apartments for rent in Granada, Nicaragua.” Please be mindful that some housing options may be quite basic. Many homes in Nicaragua are up to 120 years old, although they have been modernized to some extent. Most Nicaraguan homes have open patio areas, which means various insects and rodents may occasionally visit. It’s important to anticipate encounters with bats, ants, spiders, cockroaches, and, on occasion, mice or rats. Additionally, it’s worth noting that “basic” accommodations often lack hot water and fly screens on doors and windows.

During your interview, we will be more than happy to delve into the details of your accommodation preferences and provide further guidance on suitable options.

Granada experiences a range of temperatures, typically ranging from warm to hot. During the daytime, temperatures hover between 80°F to 100°F (26°C to 38°C), while nighttime temperatures fall between 74°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Nicaragua has distinct wet and dry seasons: the ‘wet’ season lasts from May to October, while the ‘dry’ season spans from November to April. The hottest months typically fall between March and May.

While we locally refer to May through November as the rainy season, it’s important to note that it doesn’t resemble a monsoon; it doesn’t rain every day. Most of the rainfall occurs in the form of heavy showers or thunderstorms. For volunteers arriving from cooler climates, the climate here can feel very hot, especially during the afternoons, and it may take some time to acclimate. To prepare for your stay, we recommend packing light clothing, shorts, a sunhat, and sunblock, among other essentials.

Nicaraguan cuisine revolves around staples like rice and red beans, with one of the most renowned dishes being Gallo Pinto. This flavorful dish consists of fried rice with beans and onions, typically accompanied by a choice of meat, cheese, eggs, avocado, maize tortillas, and fried plantains. You’ll find Gallo Pinto enjoyed throughout the day. Additionally, you can explore other traditional dishes such as Nacatamales, Vigorón, and Indio Viejo. Sampling authentic Nicaraguan food is both affordable and convenient, as it’s readily available at local markets and street-side grills. Fresh fruits like mangoes, tomatoes, avocado, pineapple, guava, and papaya are also abundant.

For your reference, here are some approximate local prices:

– Half a dozen eggs: 50 Córdobas
– Local food meal: 80-100 Córdobas
– Pasta: 14 Córdobas
– Restaurant meal: 80 – 350 Córdobas
– Sandwich bread: 26 Córdobas
– Hamburger: 40 – 90 Córdobas
– Coffee (1 lb.): 97 Córdobas
– Beer in a bar: 30 – 45 Córdobas
– Chicken breast (1 lb.): 39 Córdobas
– Rice (1 lb.): 12 Córdobas
– Beans (1 lb.): 25 Córdobas
– Milk (1 liter): 23 Córdobas

These prices provide you with an idea of the cost of various food items in Nicaragua.

Córdobas

Milk (litre): 23 Córdobas           

Nicaragua boasts a population of approximately 6.8 million, with the majority residing in the western region, notably the capital city, Managua. Granada, where you’ll be volunteering, ranks as the seventh most populous city, housing just under 90,000 residents. Often referred to as the ‘land of lakes and volcanoes,’ Nicaragua is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity and natural splendor, including the second-largest rainforest in the Americas. The country’s history is complex and worth exploring.

Nicaragua faces significant economic challenges, making it one of the poorest nations in the region. As of 2023, around 30% of the population lives below the poverty line, with 8% grappling with extreme poverty. Despite its turbulent history, it’s important to note that daily life in Nicaragua has generally stabilized and returned to a state of normalcy in recent years.

All residences, hostels, and hotels in Granada offer Wi-Fi connectivity, as do our office and learning centers (although it’s advisable not to use your phone during volunteering hours). Furthermore, you’ll find numerous Internet cafes in town, typically charging around $1 per hour for access.

Acquiring a SIM card is a straightforward process, and most data packages are quite budget-friendly. We recommend opting for a SIM card from Claro or Tigo, both of which are readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores. You have the option of choosing either a prepaid plan or a pay-as-you-go arrangement. You can easily top up your balance at various convenience stores and kiosks throughout the area.

For receiving mail as a volunteer, you can use the La Esperanza Granada office as your point of contact. When it comes to sending packages, it’s worth noting that the costs are surprisingly affordable; however, the reliability may not be 100%.

La Esperanza Granada does not charge fees to our volunteers, only requesting a modest $50 contribution towards our administration costs. You will be responsible for covering your own travel expenses, as well as your cost of living during your stay in Granada. The total cost of daily life largely depends on your personal lifestyle choices. Many volunteers opt to shop for groceries at the local market and supermarket, preparing their meals, while others prefer dining out at the numerous restaurants in Granada. These dining options cater to a wide range of budgets, from very affordable local eateries to upscale hotel restaurants tailored for tourists.

For most North American, European, or Australian volunteers, Granada proves to be an exceptionally budget-friendly place to reside. Some volunteers have reported monthly expenses as low as $100 US dollars after accounting for rent, while others may spend up to approximately $500. On average, most volunteers spend around $200 per month, excluding rent, which covers expenses like groceries, toiletries, and weekend activities.

Nicaragua employs two currencies: US dollars and Nicaraguan córdoba, with an exchange rate of approximately $1 to 36 córdoba. When it comes to everyday purchases such as groceries, convenience store items, market goods, street vendors, taxis, and bus tickets, it is customary to use córdoba. It’s worth noting that foreigners may often be charged higher rates for tourist-oriented activities compared to Nicaraguan nationals. Unfortunately, scams are relatively common, especially concerning bus tickets and taxi fares. Therefore, having a rough idea of the expected costs is advisable. While these situations can be frustrating, they are not always avoidable, regardless of how assertively you negotiate.

Granada, being a compact city, offers relatively short distances that are easily traversed on foot. However, due to the daytime heat, many locals opt for motorbikes, cars, buses, or taxis for their daily commutes. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transportation, and they can be rented or purchased at affordable prices.

For short local trips, a taxi ride typically costs between 10 to 15 córdobas during the day and 20 to 30 córdobas at night. Taking a local bus within the city typically costs around 4 córdobas. Depending on where volunteers reside, they may choose to walk or cycle to the learning centers or our office, hail a taxi, or receive transportation assistance from our staff members.

If you plan to explore other locations in Nicaragua over the weekends, you can take a “chicken bus,” which are repurposed American school buses. These rides vary in cost, ranging from 10 to 50 córdobas, depending on the destination. Granada offers direct routes to several cities, including Managua, Rivas, Masaya, Jinotepe, and Nandaime, with convenient connections to places like Ometepe, Leon, and San Juan del Sur, among others.

The most convenient airport for your arrival in Granada is Managua International Airport (MGA), situated in the capital city. Upon your arrival at MGA, we will arrange for our trusted taxi driver to meet you at the airport. The cost for this 50-minute journey is $30, and the driver will take you directly to your accommodation.

Some volunteers may consider flying into San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO) as a potentially more affordable option. However, it’s essential to note that if you choose this route, you’ll likely need to spend a night in San Jose both upon arrival and departure, so be sure to factor this into your budget. Additionally, you will need to pay a border fee of approximately $20 to enter Nicaragua and a departure tax of $32 when leaving Costa Rica. From Costa Rica, you can travel to Granada by coach, which takes about 8 hours, including the time spent at the border. The bus ticket typically costs around $33 each way.

For those traveling through Central America from the north, crossing the border from Honduras to Nicaragua is a straightforward process. Guatemala, El Salvador, Belize, and Honduras all belong to the same visa zone as Nicaragua, allowing you a 90-day stay from the date of your entry into the first of these countries.

We maintain a flexible approach when it comes to granting time off, especially if you have family visiting, but we do expect volunteers to honor their commitment to their volunteer responsibilities. Encouraging children to attend the learning centers is a crucial part of your role, so setting a positive example with your attendance and punctuality is essential.

Throughout the year, there are ample opportunities for breaks. We typically have at least one three-day weekend each month, often more, and there’s a full week off during Easter. Additionally, there are several occasions when volunteers enjoy extended breaks of four days. These breaks offer plenty of chances to explore the captivating natural wonders and engage in enriching cultural experiences that Nicaragua has to offer. Moreover, volunteers exclusively working in the learning centers have Monday to Thursday mornings off, providing them with the freedom to discover all that Granada has in store.

Citizens from the United States, Canada, most European nations, and many others are granted an automatic 90-day visa upon their arrival in Nicaragua. You’ll need to pay a $10 fee at the immigration counter for this visa. It’s possible to extend this visa locally for an additional 90 days, either by renewing it or by crossing the border and re-entering the country. After staying for six months, you would need to leave Nicaragua and re-enter to initiate the process anew. It’s worth noting that Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Belize share a common visa program. Therefore, to renew your visa, you would need to travel south to Costa Rica or north to Mexico. It’s highly likely that your airline will request proof of a return flight from Nicaragua when your stay concludes. Therefore, it’s advisable to book your return flight in advance and carry a printout of the itinerary in your hand luggage. If you plan to stay for more than three months, it’s advisable to state that you intend to travel to Costa Rica and return, as it is not possible to obtain a visa for more than 90 days before your arrival.

With the exception of a few nationalities, applying for a visa in advance of arrival is generally not possible. Some countries, however, require you to apply in advance and provide you with a 30-day visa. To determine if your country falls into this category, you can check the Nicaraguan government’s website. If you do require a visa, please be aware that although the website suggests allowing three weeks, past volunteer experiences indicate that the process may take ten to twelve weeks.

Important note: If your flight transits through the United States, you will need a current ESTA, which can be applied for online and is valid for two years.

The official language of Nicaragua is Spanish. While Nicaraguan Spanish may have some variations compared to the Spanish spoken in Spain, it’s generally not too challenging to adapt to. All activities within our learning centers are conducted in Spanish, and we kindly request that you converse exclusively in Spanish while at the centers, including interactions with fellow volunteers. In Nicaragua, English is not widely spoken, except in high-end hotels, travel agencies, and similar establishments. However, several members of our management team have a strong command of English in case you ever require assistance.

In Granada, it is convenient to access Spanish classes and tutoring services. Many language schools offer one- or two-week intensive Spanish courses, which can be an excellent option for volunteers who feel their Spanish proficiency might not be at the level needed to work effectively with the children.

This list is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about what to bring with you to Nicaragua. It also offers insights into items you might consider carrying if you plan to explore other regions within the country.

Please note that if you leave Granada to visit other parts of Nicaragua, you must have your passport with you. Nicaraguan immigration officials occasionally conduct unannounced inspections at hostels and may request to see your passport, including proof of a valid visa. Consequently, many hostels may not accept guests who do not have their passports on hand. This is particularly true in locations like San Juan Del Sur and Esteli, which are in proximity to the borders with Costa Rica and Honduras.

**Essentials:**

– **Travel insurance:** Purchase it, keep digital copies in your email, and carry printed key details. In the unlikely event of a hospital visit, you will need to either pay or demonstrate that you have insurance. Some volunteers recommend buying insurance through lonelyplanet.com.

– **Printouts proving the purchase of valuable items:** This includes cameras, laptops, phones, etc. In case of theft, you’ll need to demonstrate ownership to obtain a police report, which is necessary for an insurance claim. You can also store scans in your email folder for easy access.

**Items You Might Want:**

– **Sunscreen:** Available but relatively expensive in Nicaragua.

– **Insect repellent:** Mosquitoes are abundant and can transmit diseases. While good repellent is available for $5 – $7 here, it’s advisable to bring some with you.

– **Shower gel:** Unlike shampoo and soap, shower gel is not as readily available here.

– **Deodorant:** Granada’s hot and humid climate may make it challenging to find your preferred brands here.

– **Good shoes or sturdy sandals:** There are many unpaved roads and uneven pavements in Granada.

– **Flip flops:** Ideal for casual wear around the house.

– **A torch/flashlight:** Power cuts are frequent in Nicaragua and sometimes affect streetlights.

– **Plug adapters:** Voltage in Nicaragua is 110 volts, and the plugs are the same as those used in the USA. If you’re arriving from an area with different plugs, you’ll need an adapter and potentially a transformer.

– **A small weekend bag:** Useful for short getaways.

– **A small supply of medicines:** Include items like paracetamol, diarrhea tablets, etc. Although Granada has numerous well-stocked pharmacies, having a few essentials on hand can be helpful.

– **Tampons/menstrual cup:** These can be challenging to find and relatively expensive. Sanitary pads are widely available.

– **All the clothing you’ll need:** It’s easier to bring whatever you think you’ll require. While there are plenty of clothing shops, local markets, and even a good second-hand store, some items (especially those for larger sizes) can be hard to find.

– **Multiple bank/credit cards:** If your primary card is lost or stolen, obtaining a replacement can be challenging. Many volunteers opt to use a Monzo/Revolut card for everyday use while keeping their regular bank card as a backup.

**Optional (depending on when you visit and your plans):**

– **Swimwear:** Trips to the beach are popular on weekends, and you can find hotel swimming pool memberships in Granada for around $40 per month.

– **A light waterproof jacket/poncho/umbrella:** Heavy afternoon rain is frequent from May through November.

– **Light jacket and warmer clothes:** If you plan to visit the mountains during free weekends, consider bringing warmer clothing. Northern parts of Nicaragua have a cooler and damper climate. Long trousers and a light jacket can make your stay more comfortable.

– **Good walking shoes/boots:** Essential for mountain visits or hiking.

– **Driver’s license:** If you plan to rent scooters or motorbikes on Isla de Ometepe, you’ll need to demonstrate a valid driver’s license.

– **Small souvenirs/little items from your country:** These can serve as thoughtful gifts for people you meet or your host family.

We greatly rely on donations, both in the form of supplies and monetary contributions. Cash donations are always appreciated. You can deposit money into your account at home and withdraw it using your ATM card here to deposit into La Esperanza Granada’s account. Many supplies needed for the learning centers can be purchased in Granada for less than the cost of bringing them from home (please refer to our current “what to bring” list). Buying locally also supports the local economy, creating more job opportunities and contributing to sustainable development.

While we do not impose fundraising obligations on volunteers, we deeply appreciate any efforts in this regard. If you wish to engage in fundraising, we are more than willing to provide the necessary information and support. Donations are continually essential to our work. It’s worth noting that a significant portion of our sponsorships for high school and university students, as well as funds for building projects, dental care, school repairs, and supplies, have been contributed by former volunteers and their families.

However, we kindly request that volunteers refrain from distributing supplies or cash directly to children or community members. Such actions can create resentment and jealousy, potentially making it difficult for other volunteers who may not have the means to provide assistance. This approach aligns with our motto of “Give a hand up, not a handout.”

Learning Centres: We run four Centres spread around the city (Sabaneta, Amped, Pancasan and Escudo). The centres were built by us (the first in 2016) and are run by us, in the communities that most need them. They provide a safe, clean and joyful space for children to learn and have fun. The centres operate Monday-Thursday, 1pm-4pm. There are around 30-40 children who attend each Centre, from ages 5-12, and a team of around 10 educators running each one. From Monday-Wednesday, the centres operate on a rotation system, with small groups moving round each different activity every 45 minutes. There is an activity for Literacy, Maths, English, Computing, and Games. Each centre also has a reading corner, and hosts workshops on topics such as social skills, hygiene, Nicaraguan culture and theatre from time to time. Every Thursday, the children spend the whole session doing arts and crafts. The atmosphere in the Learning Centres is chaotic, fun and joyful, but can also be hot, inconsistent and challenging. But get through the first few days, and you will start to see how much the children love having your help!

Secondary school: The school where we work is a public school owned and run by the Nicaraguan Government Ministry of Education – we don’t have our own schools. At the moment we sponsor 80 second school students, as well as running after-school educational support sessions, run by our educators.

Educators: Educators are local university students with sponsorships provided by individual donors through La Esperanza, that include a small stipend for their living expenses along with their school fees. As part of the sponsorship program, the students are expected to volunteer as an educator. They are assigned to either the secondary school or one of the Learning Centres.

Coordinators: Each Learning Centre has one educator who is assigned as coordinator. This student has likely been an educator at the centre for a while, and is responsible for leading the organisation of the team of educators and the children. They lead activity planning, distribution of tasks, timetables and communication with office staff.

Volunteers: Volunteers are people who come to work for La Esperanza Granada and don’t receive any wages or material benefits. They can be Nicaraguan or international. They include long-term volunteers who work with us virtually, to young people who come for shorter periods of time, as part of their studies or travels.

Office staff: La Esperanza employs five full time staff members who work in our office, located in the northern part of the city at Del Pali, 1/2 cuadra al norte. We are Roberto (Operations Manager), Scarleth  (learning Centre Coordinator), Mario (Communications Officer), Samantha (Accountant) and Belén (Pedagogical Coordinator). Together we run all elements of the organisation.