Although Granada isn’t one of the largest cities in Nicaragua, its rich history, captivating architecture and singular vibe have made it a beacon for tourists and expats alike. Take the time to discover all that Granada can offer you as a visitor, and equip yourself with the right travel medical insurance before you go.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Granada – FAQs
As Nicaragua is still a developing nation, you won’t find every healthcare amenity around the corner. You may have to seek out proper care for an illness or injury. Serious conditions may even require evacuation to another location. Due to the potential expense for care, it’s essential to have travel medical insurance coverage when you visit Granada.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Granada?
Although you will legally be allowed to enter Nicaragua without travel medical insurance coverage, it’s not recommended. Travel here can expose you to food and water-borne illnesses, insects, and possible injury, especially in the countryside. And if you require emergency medical evacuation, it could cost more than you can afford. You need insurance that can cover you outside your home country. You need travel medical insurance.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Granada?
Granada isn’t a massive city. The hospitals here may struggle to provide you with the level of care you’re accustomed to. You might be able to seek out private care, but you should expect it to be expensive. And none of these providers will likely accept the domestic health insurance from your home country. It only makes sense to protect yourself with travel medical insurance.
Granada’s Most Popular Activities
With relaxed ambiance and adventure all around, Granada is the perfect location for many different kinds of vacations. Here are just a few of the most popular activities you can take part in when you visit Granada.
Visit Granada Cathedral
There are some who say that this cathedral is the most beautiful building in all of Nicaragua. After visiting, you may agree. It’s a perfect example of the city’s stunning colonial architecture, with bell towers and a dome that shows prominently on Granada’s skyline. It’s the perfect place for budding photographers, and visiting during mass can be a wonderful experience.
Get Up Close to Masaya Volcano
Book a nighttime tour of this fascinating volcano in the nearby national park and you’ll get the chance to see the liquid magma bubbling in the crater from up close. Don’t worry, you’ll stay far enough away to be safe, but it’s certainly a unique and memorable experience. The tour will also stop by a museum highlighting the volcanoes of Nicaragua. Best of all, there’s no hiking involved. You can drive right up to the viewing area.
Relax and Dine at Parque Central de Granada
Granada’s main square is a showcase of colonial architecture, with gorgeous fountains and plazas. There are plenty of vendors selling souvenirs here, and ample dining opportunities. If you’re into the party scene, try visiting Parque Central at night.
Book a Walking Tour
The best way to get to know a city is on foot. However, it’s understandable if you’re apprehensive about getting lost and missing out on the best spots. Luckily, you can book a walking tour of Granada for very little money to ensure you see it all. These guided tours can take you to all the best attractions around the city, and some include excursions outside the city as well. Just be sure to bring comfortable shoes!
Explore the Islets of Lake Nicaragua
Granada sits right on the shore of the largest freshwater lake in Central America. And one of the best things to explore on the lake are the hundreds of small islets of Granada. You can either choose to book a motorboat tour to take you around to the best islets, or you can rent your own boat or kayak to explore on your own. These small pieces of tropical paradise on the water are a great way to get back to nature and experience the more serene side of Nicaragua.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting Granada
Getting to Granada
Nearly all international flights to Nicaragua land in the country’s capital of Managua. Fortunately, it’s easy to get the Granada from the capital. You can rent a car, take a shuttle, or find a local bus service. It typically takes about an hour by car to drive the 45km between the cities.
Local Transport in Granada
Don’t plan on using rideshare services in Granada, as they typically aren’t available. You can take a taxi, but expect it to be relatively expensive, so be sure to bargain for a good rate. It’s more common to just take a tuk-tuk, walk or use the local bus service. Renting a motor scooter is also an option, but be sure to wear all protective gear and ride safely!
Best Time to Visit
Like most Central American locations, the temperature in Granada stays fairly constant throughout the year. High temperatures touch 90°F year-round. The most popular time to visit is from early December to mid-April, as this is the dry season. However, you should expect flights and hotels to be more expensive during this period.
Crime and Safety
Though Nicaragua certainly can have issues with crime throughout the country, instances of crimes against tourists and expats in Granada are relatively low, but still possible. Take care not to walk alone at night, always keep your doors locked, and avoid wearing any jewelry or clothing that looks overly expensive.
Water Safety
Due to possible gastrointestinal issues, tourists should not consume the tap water in Granada. Stick to bottled water whenever possible, or use a water filtration or sterilization system. If you have no choice but to drink tap water, it is recommended that you boil it first.
Before You Visit Granada – Do This
- Book a tour ahead of time – It’s one of the best ways to see Granada and not miss anything.
- Consider including Granada as part of a multi-country trip and also visit Guatemala or Costa Rica.
- Protect your wallet and your well being with travel medical insurance .