Division of Regional Operations - Nicaragua

UNDSS Travel Security Information File – Nicaragua

Emergency Contact Information
UN/UNDSS Security
duty officer & location of security office
Designated Official - Ivan Leon (+505) 8769 6731
Security Adviser - Alvaro Romero (+505) 88549989
Field Security Associate - Juan Moreno (+505) 8920 3966
Field Security Associate - Hilde Parajon (+505) 8852 4674

UN Radio Room /
Security Operations Centre
Host country emergency services
Police, fire department, ambulance
Address: UNDSS Office Edificio San Dionisio 3er piso. Pista suburbana.
Managua. UNDSS - (+505) 2298 2240
It will start providing service to UNSMS Nicaragua in mid-October 2023
2298-2243 / 2298-2244
Police: landline 118. Cell phone *118
Fire department 115
Red cross 128

Security Situation
Location-specific security conditions, threats/risks

The region’s weather is tropical (humid and hot), very much like the rest of Central America, with Dry and
Rainy seasons. Dry season runs from January through June with almost no rain. During the rainy season,
from May to November, the country experiences heavy rains with the highest values in average registered
during the months of May and June. The hottest months tend to be March and April affecting people with
high blood pressure.
The most likely security events that could affect staff and visitors are road traffic, People under the
influence of alcohol/illicit substances can be considered as a relevant threat group to the UNSMS as it
usually is the factor leading to a significantly higher risks of confrontation, assault, injury, and/or death
upon an incident. High levels of gender violence, impunity, and ingrained machismo, put women and
LGBTIQ+ community at additional risk of sexual assault when at home during a residential burglary or
while conducting official or personal activities.

Street crime continues to increase, especially in Managua, Granada, Carazo and RACC. Since 2018 crime
of opportunity and armed robbery have also increased considerably in the pacific region representing a
risk for visitors without the proper security awareness placing them in the wrong place at the wrong time.
In the capital, Managua, despite the decreasing reported numbers, “Express kidnapping” continues to be
reported, where victims are forced to provide bank cards and pin numbers in order to withdraw as
much money as possible from ATMs. Then, the victim is usually abandoned at an isolated area.
Expatriates and new arrivals could be extremely vulnerable to this type of criminal activity. Women are
recorded as most frequently and more vulnerable to these attacks. Hailing at a taxi on the street is not
recommended. Taxis are normally shared by more passengers along the route. It is recommended to use
only registered radio taxi services or hotel recommended taxis.
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Street robbery and pick pocketing is quite common in Managua, even at and around shopping centres or
relatively upscale areas including robbery at knife or gun point at night-time. Most of the incidents occur in
bus stops (especially those located close to shopping malls), in buses, taxis and public marketplaces such
as Mercado Oriental and Mercado Roberto Huembes, amongst others. Walking in Managua or use of public
transportation is not recommended.
Home break-ins and theft are very common in Managua. Despite most being non-confrontational occurring
mainly when residents are asleep (unguarded residences), or during periods when the residence is empty,
there are records of similar incidents where a degree of violence and assault is involved.
Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region (RAAC) registers the highest crime rates after the capital as well as
drug traffic activity. Stray bullet incidents are also amongst the possible occurrences in the Caribbean region
due to frequent recorded gunfire exchanges between security forces, drug-traffickers, and allegedly illegal
Gangs. Highway robberies are also common on isolated roads and remote areas of the Caribbean region. The
police resources in these areas are limited or non-existent. Consequently, criminals and drug traffickers feel
under less control of the authorities.

Please, check with DSS or UN agencies’ Security Focal Points to receive more elaborate or specific
information concerning security measures at the area/s you are visiting.
2. The government supporting party (FSLN) and elected Government and President enjoyed, during the last
decade a widespread support in the country and anti-government social or civil mobilization capacity is
assessed as very limited or nonexistent. UN personnel are advised to avoid crowds’ parties’ events or
mobilization to reduce the level of exposure and are encouraged to exercise caution when in the vicinity of any
gathering.
3. Nicaragua is one of the country’s most susceptible to natural disasters in the region. Earthquakes occur
more commonly along Managua and the Pacific coast. Hurricanes tend to affect the Caribbean region
(RAAC) the most, during the hurricane season from May to November. In early November 2020, two
category 4 hurricanes impacted the north-western Atlantic Coast and left unprecedented infrastructure
destruction in one of the poorest areas of Nicaragua. Furthermore, the country is well-known for several
volcanoes in activity along the western region of the country.
4. Seismic activity is a regular occurrence, especially in Managua, but mostly without causing major damages.
The capital city lies on a net of geological faults with the two last major earthquakes recorded in 1931 and
1972, spreading major destruction. The likelihood of a major earthquake to happen in Managua should
always be considered. On Nov 24th, 2017, a 7.0 earthquake occurred, and a tsunami alert was triggered by
the Government. On January 17th, 2018, 5.4 and 6 earthquakes were felt in the pacific region causing
evacuation of private and governmental facilities. Seismic activity around active volcanoes area is also
significant.
 Division of Regional Operations - Nicaragua

Travel Preparation
Security clearance In Nicaragua, security clearance is required with 7 days prior to travelling. For
procedure
detailed information regarding the Security Clearance preparation please visit the
following Web link: dss.un.org. For questions regarding the TRIP system please
send an E-mail to DSShelp@un.org
Visa / entry permits
Most nationalities, including UNLP holders, do not require a visa for travel to
Nicaragua. Please read exceptions: http://visados.com/es/visados-para-Nicaragua.
Some airlines will request a return ticket when checking-in to Nicaragua from
originating countries. There are currently certain requirements regarding the
COVID-19, such as a negative test within the 72 hours prior to landing in Nicaragua.
Always check the latest information.

Required security training UNDSS – BSAFE training:

prior to travel
UNDSS has launched BSAFE training and is mandatory for all UN personnel
conducting official missions. Upon completion, certificate is to be saved in the
personal file of the staff member.

Arrival
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Arrival arrangements at Airports:

airport / seaport / road
There is one International Airports in Nicaragua called Augusto C Sandino
entry
International airport.
Tax and tip systems:
A special tourism tax of 10 USD (cash only) is charged at the immigration counter
upon your arrival. In most cases, change from high USD bills is not available at the
counter. Bearers of valid UNLPs are exempted from this tax.
At commercial venues, bills will incorporate VAT and a Volunteer tip when brought to
you upon payment.
Luggage Collection:
Collecting luggage and passing to the Green Lane “Nothing to Declare” at customs
can slow down your arrival procedure up to 30 minutes. Custom procedures are
handled by "Migration department” officers who are properly uniformed and with IDs.

Specific border entry Health checks, Yellow Fever Certificate of Inoculation and Vaccination.
requirements &
Upon arrival, travelers must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test conducted
restrictions
withing the last 72 hours. In addition, the traveler might be requested to present their
Yellow Fever Certificate of Inoculation and Vaccination, especially those arriving from
countries where this disease is considered endemic.
A routine remote temperature check by health authorities is normally on going at each
airport arrival.

Currency The Nicaraguan currency is the Córdoba (C$ NIO) but the $US Dollar is accepted
restrictions/exchange/usa almost everywhere. However, if you pay with USD, in most cases your change will be
ge
in the national currency. The use of small USD bills is therefore recommended. Many
ATMs conveniently dispense $US but only in 20.00-dollar bills.
Exchange of currency is best done at Banks. The international airport has a "Banpro
Bank" and the "Global Exchange" where you can also change your currency. The
average exchange rate to 1USD=36.50C$. You can find the most current rate at the
following website: http://www.bcn.gob.ni/.
ATMs are available in most public places (airport, shopping malls, gas stations, etc)
and most credit cards are accepted.
Security Briefing / SSAFE
Location and schedule All briefings are provided face to face and are conducted in the UNDSS office
space. Before travelling or upon arrival in the country, contact your Security Focal
Point to coordinate and schedule this mandatory briefing.

Movement, Accommodation, Security Advisories and Restrictions

 Division of Regional Operations - Nicaragua

Transport to Transport from/to Airport:

accommodation / office
- UN transport If your agency does not provide transportation in and out from the airport, the largest
arrangements hotels usually make shuttle services available to their customers. If available, make
- Use of taxis sure to have a shuttle reservation when you book the hotel and have the necessary
- Use of public contact information upon arrival at the airport.
transportation
Taxis:
If you have not coordinated your transport to the city prior to arrival, use only the
registered airport taxi services. Their drivers wear a uniform and/or identification
badge. Fares can range between 15 and 40 $US, depending on the distance
travelled.
Movement
restrictions In Nicaragua, some parts of the country are more affected by crime, especially those
- Restricted/prohibited cities located in remote areas, such as Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region (RAAC).
areas and roads It is therefore advisable for any staff member who wishes to visit or pass through
- Curfew these areas to take additional precautions.
- Other
restrictions/requirements

Accommodation It is recommended to transit to and from the airport between 07:00 and 17:00 for
security reasons and avoid possible restriction of movement. If flights depart or arrive
- Recommended hotels and
guesthouses, outside those hours, it is better to spend the night at a hotel near the airport and move
- Restricted zones/areas out the following day.
- Accommodation Upon entering any building or facility:
arrangements where staff
is required to reside in UN • Look for the detailed evacuation signs, procedures, and evacuation plan.
compounds
• Identify and if possible, recon the emergency route and check for potential
obstacles.
• Make sure to keep a first aid kit at hand. Ask your hotel or agency where those kits
are kept.
• Identify availability of fire extinguishers and emergency equipment, making sure
that you can use them in case of need.
Communications Nicaragua has a fair telecommunications system (including GSM) which covers the
equipment, major cities and offers roaming services. However, pay phones are not widely
mobile phone networks, available. The International Direct Dial (IDD) code for outgoing calls is “00” or “+” for
internet mobile phones. National calls require only the number. The dial Country Code for
incoming calls is +505

UN security advisories Preparation for field missions:

and restrictions
In line with the minimum recommendations instituted in Nicaragua's Security Risk
Management (SRM) for this type of travel, it is established that:
• All officials must have completed and registered in their profile in TRIP the
course "BE SAFE”.
• Every officer on assignment must apply for his or her Security Clearance and
 Division of Regional Operations - Nicaragua

wait for it to be approved.

• You must respect the protocol established for travel in the field.
• Periodic monitoring of the field mission must be established by the Agency,
Fund or Programme (AFP). Make sure you have the Electric Travel Advisory
(eTA) application activated if you have it installed on your phone.
• It is recommended that walking in a disaster area be done with appropriate
personal protective equipment (footwear and clothing).
• Ensure that the assigned vehicle has all the necessary measures for travel in
accordance with the SRM (extra tire, tools, communication equipment,
functioning satellite, windows with break-resistant film, first aid kit, etc.)
• Carry personal protection kits in relation to COVID-19 and other possible
infectious threats as outlined in the health section.
• The head of mission should exercise caution in travel if there is rain and notify
their respective agency of possible delays in the mission.
• If you go on a mission and the rain intensifies, you should stop for a reasonable
time and then continue your journey. This reduces the likelihood of facing a
landslide or flooding. If you are driving, watch for levels of water flow or
accumulation in rivers, streams, fords, overpasses, and lowlands.
• Do not try to cross riverbeds, streams, fords, and low areas because you can
be swept away by the water. Investigate if there are alternate routes.
• The head of the field mission should include in his travel plan contact
information for hospitals, authorities and Security Focal Points in the region or
department he will be visiting.
• Be sure to bring the PEP Kit.
• The head of mission should ensure that sufficient redundant communication
means are carried (telephone, radio, satellite phone, etc.)
Should an earthquake occur, the following actions are recommended:
• Remain calm and try to calm down others around you.
• Protect your head, with a shock resistant helmet if available or consider
improvising a head protection with any object in hand or your own arms/hands.
• Protect your respiratory system from dust with a mask if available or improvised
ways (e.g., use a piece of cloth from anything at hand, including your own
clothing)
• Look for cover under a strong table, beds or major beams, etc.
• Some 10 seconds after the first tremor or earthquake evacuate the
building/hotel using the emergency exit or route.
• Communicate with your respective Agency Security Focal Point for further
information and your status report.
After the earthquake:
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• Make sure you are safe and look for medical assistance if needed.
• Look for victims and provide them with first aid assistance, make sure to put
into practice the "Triage" techniques. Improvise if you need to (e.g. use plastic
bags to treat victims with open wounds, etc).
• Keep yourself informed of the measures adopted by the local government (e.g.
evacuate the city to prevent the spreading of epidemic deceases)
• Never attempt to fix damaged or broken gas pipes, electrical wirings, telephone
wiring, etc.
• Extinguish small fires that could affect you. Do not attempt to extinguish big
flames of fire with an extinguisher.
Hurricanes:
They mostly occur during the rainy season (May to November) and mostly on the
Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Should you plan to travel to the Caribbean coast
during this season it is recommended to:
• Be informed of the weather forecast and avoid traveling to the affected areas
unnecessarily.
• Do not put yourself at sea during a hurricane
• Look for hotels with strong infrastructure, especially strong roofs.
• Make sure your hotel is equipped with a power generator.
• Protect your electronics with plastic bags.
• Maintain contact with the Agency Security Focal Point and request advice and
support if needed.
In Nicaragua, security clearance is required with 7 days prior to travelling. For detailed
information regarding the Security Clearance preparation please visit the following
Web link: dss.un.org. For questions regarding the TRIP system please send an E-mail
to DSShelp@un.org

Health
Health advise to be obtained from UN Medical Services Division and/or local UN physician; Chief Medical Officer in mission environments
Health advisory and COVID-19
recommendations
Nicaragua is experiencing COVID-19 community transmission, which implies an
infection risk while traveling in the country. The following is recommended to prevent
COVID-19 infection and receive opportune evaluation and treatment.
1. Carry a personal kit to prevent COVID-19 infection and identify symptoms. This kit
should include masks (medical or non-medical), pulse oximeter, thermometer,
alcohol-gel.
2. Put in practice basic personal sanitary measures like hand washing frequently
with water and soap, drink safe water and safe food.
3. Always wear mask and practice physical distance with other persons.
 Division of Regional Operations - Nicaragua

4. In case of respiratory or other symptoms associated with COVID-19, practice self-

isolation, consult your agency´s COVID-19 Focal Point, and seek medical
attention.
Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika
Malaria is endemic in areas of Nicaragua, especial rural zones of RAAN, RAAS,
Jinotega and Rio San Juan. In addition, dengue, Chikungunya and zika are also widely
present in the country. If travel to endemic areas is planned, please consult
PAHO/WHO for advice. The following is recommended to prevent mosquito borne
diseases and receive opportune treatment.
1. Carry a personal kit to prevent malaria or other infections transmitted by
mosquitoes. This kit should include repellent against mosquitoes and an
impregnated mosquito net.
2. Use clothing that covers legs and arms. It is preferable to wear cloth with light
colors (white).
3. Seek medical attention for symptoms of fever, headache and malaise.

Vaccination requirements As per official announcement made by the Government of Nicaragua on January 2017
regarding the spread of Yellow Fever in areas of Africa and South America, visitors
coming from countries where PAHO/WHO considers active transmission and as of
now are Argentina, Bolivia, Brasil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guayanas Francesa, Panamá,
Paraguay, Perú, Venezuela. All countries of Africa with exception of Democratic
Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Santo Tomé and Principe and Somalia are been
requested a Yellow Fever vaccine certificate upon arrival to the country. Please, refer
to the following link to have updated information before traveling to Nicaragua.
Hospitals
HOSPITALS IN MANAGUA
NAME TELEPHONE ADDRESS
HOSPITAL METROPOLITANO (505) 22556900 Sto Domingo First Entrance to UNICA 250 mts west, Managua
HOSPITAL MILITAR (505) 2222-2763 Jonathan Gonzalez traffic lights 50 meters north, Managua
HOSPITAL MONTE ESPAÑA (505) 22700810 Villa Fontana Traffic Lights 150 meters North, Managua
HOSPITAL BAUTISTA (505) 2264 9020 Largaespada neighborhood, next to RUCFA University, Managua
HOSPITAL SALUD INTEGRAL (505) 22661707 Montoya Statue a block north and a block west, Managua

INT. MEDICAL EVACUATION TRAVEL SERVICES

AIRLINK AMBULANCE (MEXICO) 52 33 3629 8700 PO BOX AirLink Ambulance, 1859 North Carson St. Carson City, NV
USA
SARPA AIR AMBULANCE (COLOMBIA) (571) 413-52-02 El Dorado airport, nueva zona de aviación, entrance 6 , Vía CATAM,
Hangar 39-40, Bogotá Colombia. PBX- FAX : (57) (1) 413 52 02

UN doctor / clinic The UN System doctors will be summoned to assist the victim and his/her family
NAME CONTACT TTTTLE
(505) 8883-1978
Mauricio Barrios Johanning Internist
(505) 2270-3080
(505) 8887-3035
Jose Angel Montiel Cardiologist
(505) 2266-6828
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(505) 8877- 2089

Maria Elena Miranda Molina Obstetrician- Gynecologist
(505) 2277-4298
Psychological assistance will be given by
Msc. Maria Gabriela Avilez (505) 8551-4707 Local Stress Counselor

Gender
Security threats and risks related to sex, sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity
Types of incidents, social
The World Bank study “Women, Business and the Law 2019: A Decade of Reform”,
and legal aspects
affecting women and places Nicaragua 56 (out of 187), with 87.5% score. Nevertheless, Nicaraguan
LGBTI personnel women cannot have an abortion under any circumstance, as the practice is
completely illegal. Before 2006, abortion for medical reasons was allowed as long
as the woman and three doctors gave consent. Nicaragua was one of the last
countries in the region to decriminalize homosexuality. Sodomy was excluded from
the Penal Code in 2006.
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Nicaragua since 2008 but Same-sex
marriage/unions are not recognized, including adoption by same-sex couples. There
is no Laws concerning gender identity/expression but Anti-discrimination laws
concerning sexual orientation bans some anti-gay discrimination.
There are cases of discrimination and violence since the ideas of being a woman or
being a man are strongly impregnated in the country. Those considered different will
be treated differently. Violence against women is one of the main concerns for
security institutions in the country. The "macho" culture is still very present especially
in rural areas of the country.

Advisory to mitigate risks • Do not walk alone

for women and LGBTI • Always inform a fried or partner your location.
personnel • Hailing at a taxi on the street is not recommended.
• Maintain contact with your Security Focal Point, Area Security Coordinator and
request advice and support if needed.
• An Aid Memoire on Gender-Based violence Incident is being shared to all staff
in country.
• A Residential Security Measure document is disseminated among international
staff to assist prior to rent a house and/or apartment. It contains the minimum-
security measures approved by SMT in country.