Warden messages

Safety Precautions during Semana Santa

This message is being issued to advise American citizens to exercise extra caution over the Semana Santa (Holy Week) holiday next week.    This is a local religious holiday where thousands of people leave Managua and go to nearby beaches and other tourist sites across Nicaragua.  During Semana Santa you can expect police checkpoints on all major roads and intersections.  Traffic is heavy especially on the Friday and Saturday before Semana Santa (March 14 and 15) and the following Sunday (March 23).

Americans are urged to obey all traffic laws and stay within posted speed limits.  The U.S. Embassy reminds Americans that driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and a prosecutable offense.  Defensive driving is also highly recommended.  Travel only during daylight hours.  Roads outside Managua are always dangerous at night because of pedestrian traffic hazards and the presence of negligent or drunk drivers. 

The U.S. Embassy recommends that adults supervise their children at all times while in or near water.  Many of Nicaragua’s best-known resorts do not employ lifeguards to supervise swimmers. The Nicaraguan Pacific Coast is generally thought to be one of the most treacherous in the world and is not guarded by emergency rescue or medical services.

Finally, remember to use your common sense in guarding your property and person.  This is the high season for petty thefts and other types of minor crimes.  These crimes include, but are not limited to, assaults by intoxicated people at bars, verbal assaults of a sexual nature, and other events of this nature.  Keep your eyes open and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

The U.S. Embassy wishes you all a fun and safe vacation.  Be careful and enjoy your vacation!

The U.S. Embassy in Managua is located at Km 5 ½ C. Sur Managua, Nicaragua.  The U.S. Embassy in Managua can be reached 24/7 at 011-505-252-7100.  For emergencies (deaths, arrests, etc.) after hours, U.S. citizens can call this phone number and ask for the Embassy Duty Officer.  The ACS unit is also available by email at ACS.Managua@state.gov.  

General information regarding consular services is available by calling 011-505-252-7888.  Non-emergency services for U.S. citizens are available Monday through Friday, 1:00 to 3:00 PM, except on Nicaraguan and U.S. holidays.

U.S. citizens are urged to register and update their contact information at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui.