With colonial buildings from the 1800s, delicious food, friendly locals, and breathtaking landscapes, Nicaragua should be in your bucket list. You could also try volcano boarding, surfing, and discovering ruins in this beautiful nation. Philippine Passport Holders can get a Visa on Arrival to Nicaragua, too! So, it's hassle-free.

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Filipinos can enter Nicaragua via visa on arrival or visa-exempt if they have a Schengen, US, or Canada visa. It also offers many fun things to do. Check our incredible guide so that you'll know how to enter Nicaragua and what to do in this fascinating nation!

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List of Visa-Free & Visa on Arrival Countries for Philippines Passport Holders

Visa Free Countries

Many nationalities can enter Nicaragua Visa Free for 90 days. There are also citizens (including Filipinos) that can enter visa free for 90 days within 180 days if they have a valid visa or resident permit in the US, European Union countries, or Canada.

Visa on Arrival for Nicaragua

Some nationalities can get a Visa on Arrival for 30 days if they are not visa-exempt. Some citizens not mentioned here that can enter Nicaragua through visa on arrival if they have a valid US, Schengen, or Canada visa. It will cost USD 50.

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Requirements for Entry to Nicaragua

1. Valid Passport – must be valid for 6 months

2. Tourist Card – USD 10

3. Return or Onward Ticket

Nicaragua Tourist Visa Extension

Days of stay: 30 days extension, for a maximum of 90 days

Processing Time: On the day, but you may submit it days before

Where to submit: Directorate General of Immigration and Nationality

Address: Avenida Xolotlan, Managua, Nicaragua

Requirements:

Passport – a copy of bio-page and your entry stamp
Return or Onward Ticket
Sufficient Funds
Fee - 500 Cordobas for 30 days

Overview of Nicaragua

Capital: Managua

Language: Spanish and English

Currency: Nicaraguan Cordoba (1 USD = 34 NIO)

The biggest country in Central America is the Republic of Nicaragua. It is between Costa Rica and Honduras, and the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. During ancient times, Paleo-Americans were the first inhibitors of the country. During the 15th century, it was colonized under Spanish rule but gained its freedom in 1821. It was then a part of the Mexican Empire, the Federal Republic of Central America, but became independent in 1838.

Nicaraguans are predominantly of European Ancestry, mostly Mestizos, due to the Spanish colonization. There are also African and under the indigenous tribes. Like most countries under the Spanish rule, there are many Catholics in Nicaragua (more than 50%) as well as Christians. Tourism is a primary source of income for this country and being coined as "the land of lakes and volcanoes."

Going to Nicaragua

Augusto C. Sandino International Airport is the main airport in Nicaragua. They have flights to mostly the Americas (e.g., Mexico, USA – Houston, Florida, Miami and Georgia, Costa Rica, Guatemala or Panama.)

If you are from the Philippines, you need to stop by the US first, so there are probably at least 2 stops (there are no direct flights from PH to the mentioned places in the US.) But you could also make a Central America trip and ride a bus from either Honduras or Costa Rica.

What to do in Nicaragua

1. Visit León Cathedral

The Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary is a catholic church completed in the 1800s. It is also a historical landmark as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be in awe of its architecture and strength as it has survived earthquakes, eruptions, and wars. There are also crypts and tunnels underground, some leads to other churches.

2. Discover the Ruins of León Viejo

Learn more about the history of Nicaragua as you walk through Leon Viejo. It was initially where Léon is, but people relocated from this place due to earthquakes and volcanic activity during the 1600s. It has been excavated in the 1960s and preserved and was a World Heritage Site in 2000.

3. Walk the streets of Granada

Enjoy Spanish Colonial architecture as you walk around the city of Granada. Don't forget to go to Calle la Calzada to see shops and restaurants lined up. You would enjoy the vibe and the charm of this colorful city.

4. Hike Masaya Volcano

Go on an adventure and hike one of Nicaragua's active volcanoes. Your hike to the top will be worth it as it is gorgeous in person. If possible, do it at night time to see the magma! It's also very accessible, so don't you dare miss this!

5. Enjoy the sea in Nicaragua's beaches

Nicaragua is not only bustling with history and volcanoes, but it also has gorgeous beaches. Now, you only have to pick which side you want: the Caribbean or the Pacific. Notable beaches are Corn Island, Pearl Cays, Redonda Bay, and Tola Beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions for your travel in Nicaragua

1. Is Nicaragua Visa-free?

For Philippine Passport Holders, it is a visa on arrival. You are permitted to stay for 30 days, but if you have a Canada, EU or US Visa, then you may be visa-exempt and opt for 90 days. For other nationalities, see the list above!

2. Is it safe to travel to Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is a safe place for travel. It is one of the safest in Central America. However, they may be petty thefts, so be vigilant and take care of your valuables. I always recommend buying travel insurance since we don't know what will happen to us. Check out Safetywing, my insurance provider.

3. Is it expensive in Nicaragua for tourists?

Nicaragua is a bit expensive if you stay at hotels and resorts. But you can do it on a budget if you stick to going to a local place rather than a restaurant and finding cheaper tours and accommodations. However, you should take note that your bank account needs to be at least USD 100 a day during your stay.

4. When is the best time to visit Nicaragua?

Nicaragua, like most Central American countries, is very affordable. It can be one of the cheapest places to travel through, especially if you plan on where to go and which accommodation to book.

5. Where should I stay in Nicaragua?

You can stay at the capital Managua, the historical city of Granada, the second-largest city Leon, or San Juan del Sur for more beaches. Here is our list of recommended Luxury Hotels in Nicaragua and Best Hostels in Nicaragua.

Nicaragua is a place filled with fun activities: from volcano boarding, surfing, hiking, to exploring ruins and charming cities. You would love the vibe of this amazing Central American country. Plus, its visa on arrival for Filipinos! What are you waiting for? Plan your trip and book for your flights now!