INTRODUCTION

Nicaragua is a developing country with a government that has grown increasingly hostile toward the United States during the past year. Strains on the country's political stability have increased due to widespread irregularities in the November 2008 municipal elections, pervasive corruption in the judicial system, and recent Supreme Court rulings that allow for the re-election of President Daniel Ortega in November 2011. As Nicaragua approaches national elections next year, the rhetoric between the ruling and opposition political parties has the potential to become increasingly volatile, with possible violent confrontations. Human rights groups and press activists have called attention to government efforts to restrict media freedom. Donor countries, civil society, and opposition political parties have expressed concern about the constriction of democratic space within Nicaragua. As a result of the deteriorating political situation, several countries have drastically reduced or eliminated aid programs. The economy remains among the poorest in the hemisphere. Crime continues to be high.

The national language is Spanish, although many residents of the Caribbean coastal areas also speak English and indigenous languages. The climate is hot and humid, with the "summer" dry season running mid-November through mid-May and the "winter" rainy season running from mid-May through mid-November. Terrain ranges from the hilly and volcanic to coastal beaches and tropical jungles. Geological faults, along which active volcanoes are situated, run through the country. Minor earthquakes are common, but the last major earthquake occurred in 1972, destroying the city of Managua.

Nicaragua presents many opportunities for tourists. At the same time its tourism infrastructure is very basic and generally not up to international standards, with the exception of several large, international chain hotels in Managua which primarily cater to a business or government clientele. Except in the cities and major thoroughfares, most roads are unpaved. Public transportation is unsafe and there are no sidewalks. Emergency services are sporadic and most hospitals are substandard. Potential tourists may want to obtain information from the National Tourism Institute (INTUR), the governmental agency responsible for developing, regulating and promoting tourism in Nicaragua. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Nicaragua for additional information.

Note: Statistical information and copy in the Project Locations area of our website is drawn from the CIA World Factbook, 2010.