01/22/2007

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport to enter Nicaragua?
Yes, a valid passport with expiration date not shorter than six months is required to enter Nicaragua.
The law requires that you carry your passport with you at all times during your stay. Plainclothes immigration inspectors may stop you on the street with request to see your passport. Fortunately, officials will usually accept photocopies of your passport; be sure to include your photo, passport number, and entry stamp. It is a good idea in any case to make photocopies of all documents and to keep them with you, separate from originals.
For latest information about travel to Nicaragua you may go to US Department of State travel advisory page.

 I will be visiting Costa Rica and planning to go for a few days to Nicaragua. What transportation is available and how much it would cost.
 You can take a bus from San Jose, Costa Rica or a small plane.

What I can bring to Nicaragua duty-free?
See Customs Regulations.

When is the best time to visit Nicaragua?
Whenever you have the most time to come and enjoy the country. Most visitors regret not being able to stay longer since there are many more things to see and do, than what they expect.
With micro-climates, you can always find areas in Nicaragua that offer sunny beach weather, cool mountain breezes, dry or humid regions. General rule of thumb, when the Pacific Coast is having its afternoon rains everyday, (Green Season May-Nov), the Caribbean side is sunny and drier (but still green).

Do I need to exchange cash before I come?
No. In fact the exchange rate for dollars is better in Nicaragua than in the US and other countries. ATMs in major cities of the country make it easy to get cash with your Visa or Master Card and your PIN number. Most tourist related businesses (hotels, restaurants, tour companies, etc.) readily accept major credit cards. Travelers checks are a little more difficult to cash, especially outside Managua. If you are bringing cash make sure that the dollar bills are in good condition, otherwise you will have problems with exchanging them for Cordobas (local currency). It is a good idea to copy down all your credit card numbers and store them in a safe place. In case you loose your credit card you may reported it by calling:
VISA: 0-800-011 0030
MasterCard: 0-800-011 0184
AMEX (travel checks): 0-800-012 0039
AMEX (credit cards): 0-800-012 3211
Diners Club: (702) 797-5532 (collect)

WARNING!
When you take the bus to Nicaragua... do not change dollars at the border!  
You don't need cordobas until you arrive in Granada. And here in Granada you can easily get cordobas from ATM machines or change your money in any local bank. Very often the money vendors at the border are selling worthless 1000 cordoba notes  while others changing the money at a very bad rate. Remember that currently US$1 is worth about 18 cordobas. Changing dollars on Granada streets is considered safe but... proceed with caution. Use this service for emergencies only.

Is the water safe to drink?
Yes! Even most of the small towns outside of the Central Valley have a small roadside sign that assures visitors that the local water is certified safe.

Do you have air conditioning in your Guesthouse?
Yes, we do. In addition each room has a ceiling fan.

Do you have a swimming pool, Jacuzzi or sauna in your Guesthouse?
No, we don't.

Are you affiliated with a fitness center near by?
No, we are not. A list of fitness centers close to our location is available at the reception desk.

Do you have a bar or restaurant in your Guesthouse?
No, we don't. There are many different bars and restaurants within short distance from our place.

Do you have safety boxes in the rooms?
Yes, we do - and they are free of charge. 

Do you have high speed wireless access to Internet?
Yes, we do. The service is available 24 hours - and it is free of charge. 
In case you did not bring your laptop, for a small fee you may always use our computer stations to access Internet.

Do I need to rent a car?
If this is your first visit, you may find a car is more trouble than a convenience, especially in Managua area. Taxis are reasonable and you don't have to worry about parking. Most tours include transportation. If you have more time to explore the countryside and you are not shy about asking directions (few road signs), then a 4X4 is the way to go. Most of the car rental companies are operating out of Managua and Granada; some companies have additional offices near the international airport so you can pick up your car upon arrival. We can help you to make your car rental reservations with reputable companies at our front desk. Passport, valid driver license, and credit card is required.

Will it be safe to park my car overnight on the street? Do you have a parking lot?
 We do not recommend parking your car overnight on the street. Paid public parking near our place.

Do you provide escort service?
No, we don't.

Can I bring a guest to my room?
Yes, you can, as long as he/she is over 18 years old and has a valid photo ID ("Cedula") or passport. We reserve the right to refuse entry to any visitor if we feel it is in the best interest of our Guesthouse.

This is my first trip. Where should I go? What should I do?
There are many attractions and day tours convenient to nearby Granada area. Check our Tours page for details.

How far are you from the beach?
Granada is  located on the lake. So there is a local beach. Unfortunately  in our opinion  the lake is too contaminated for swimming. There is another crater lake Laguna Apoyo close to Granada, about half an hour drive, with nice beaches. It is about three hour by car to get to Pacific seashore.

Where can we buy the tickets for bus or local airline?
If you have problem with getting the tickets or make the reservations we can reserve and buy these tickets for you. We charge $10 for this service. Click here to check the bus schedule.