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US to Nicaragua Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)

volcano ometepe nicaragua
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Nicaragua is a country in Central America with beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, with hundreds of square miles of virgin rainforests, mist-shrouded volcanoes, and wild rivers and lakes. The country is a paradise for nature and animal lovers and is home to warm and hospitable people.

When you plan a trip to Nicaragua, it’s important to take the time to make sure that you’re properly prepared. In this article, we will focus on the electrical system in Nicaragua and answer your questions about the Nicaraguan power system, what to pack, as well as some FAQs about the country.

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Which power outlets do they use in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua power outlet
Here is an actual photo of a Nicaragua power outlet

Most modern travelers rely on their smartphones and other electronic devices for a safe and fun vacation. We use our phones to navigate, translate foreign languages, book flights and hotels, and even meet new friends. Fortunately, Nicaragua uses the same types of outlets as the rest of North America, so you shouldn’t have any issues charging your American electronic devices in Nicaragua.

In Nicaragua, you will find type A and type B power outlets, which are the same type that are used in the US and Canada, as well as much of Latin America. Type A outlets have two parallel rectangular holes, and type B outlets have the same two holes with a round hole underneath for a grounding pin.

Plugs that are designed for type A outlets are compatible with type B outlets, but you can’t use type B plugs in type A outlets due to the lack of holes for the grounding pin. The standard voltage in Nicaragua is 120 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.

What kind of power adapter do I need for Nicaragua?

Nicaragua power adapter
Recommended Nicaragua power adapter available on Amazon.com ➜

Since US plugs are designed to be used with type A and type B outlets, North American travelers don’t need a travel adapter in order to charge their devices in Nicaragua. That said, there are still a number of reasons that I still recommend that you bring a Universal Travel Adapter on your trip to Nicaragua.

This adapter is useful in Nicaragua since it has two USB ports so that you can charge three devices at the same time. It’s also got a built-in fuse protector, which will protect your devices from a defective outlet, which is fairly common in Nicaragua. Not to mention, it’s compatible with over 100 countries around the world, so you can take it with you if you extend your trip to include other Latin American countries or other parts of the world.

It’s the best adapter we’ve ever come across and you can trust the quality since it’s backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee.

View on Amazon.com ➜

Other Nicaragua Packing List Items

In addition to your US-to-Nicaragua power adapter, these items will help you pack with intention and expand the possibilities of your getaway. Also, check out our Nicaragua packing list for more inspiration and ideas.

  • 1. Neck Wallet

    I’ve traveled to Central America over a dozen times, and I never personally had any issues with crime in Nicaragua. That said, it’s important to play it safe anywhere in Latin America. This handy neck wallet is a secure place for you to keep your passport, cash, credit cards, keys, travel documents, and other small valuables where they are out of sight of any potential pickpockets. It also has RFID protective lining to prevent e-theft. Way safer than leaving a wallet exposed in your backpocket or losing a passport on busy flight days.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Waterproof Sandals

    The terrain of Nicaragua can vary widely – from mountains and volcanos – to beaches and waterfalls. Whether you’re heading out on a jungle trek or walking along the sea at sunset, waterproof sandals are a smart addition to your packing list. You’ll need something more protective for intense hikes, but these are perfect for day-to-day exploration.

    Waterproof Sandals

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Since Nicaragua is under sanctions from many Western countries, it can often be difficult to access online banking and other tools while inside the country. The best way to get around this problem is to use a VPN service, which allows you to change your online location to a country of your choice. It also protects you from tracking, ads, and malware and provides password protection as well as safe, untraceable internet browsing.

    We don’t travel without NordVPN after having our credit card number stolen over the wifi at an Airbnb. Public places like the airport, your hotel, and restaurants can leave you vulnerable to hackers and peering eyes. A VPN is only a few dollars a month and will give you true anonymity and internet freedom.

    vpn

    View options at NordVPN.com ➜

  • 4. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    Another thing you can do to protect your belongings from potential theft is to use a luggage lock – both to prevent access into your bags and (paired with a small cable) secure them in one place. I’ve found these locks to be especially useful while taking long bus trips, where everyone’s bags are often stowed on top of the bus. They’re light yet strong and allow TSA agents to inspect your luggage while keeping thieves out.

    luggage locks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    When you’re on-the-go, one of the most useful items to have on hand is a towel, but regular bath towels are far too bulky to be practical on the road. This quick-dry travel towel is soft on the skin and absorbable, but it packs down to a small size for travel and dries off in minutes in the sun. It even comes with a carrying case and a second smaller washcloth-sized towel.

    travel towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Travel Insurance for Nicaragua

    Travel insurance is not a luxury to gamble with. Paying out-of-pocket could cost a fortune, particularly if you run into any medical issues while outside of the country. The medical industry here is not fully developed but it is high-quality, and you will want access to treatment or a transit to a hospital that is covered by insurance.

    We use Faye because they offer modern solutions to modern problems. Everything is handled on their mobile app and for a small cost of your overall trip, it’s worth it for peace of mind alone. It’s cheap for younger people especially because they are low-risk, and even a low-budget policy will make a big difference if you end up having to cancel a trip at the last minute or in the unlikely event of a disaster or medical emergency during your trip.

    Travel Insurance for Nicaragua

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

  • 7. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    In Nicaragua, it’s inevitable that you’ll end up in places without a charging outlet. But with the help of this pocket-sized portable charger, you’ll still be able to keep your smartphone and other small devices charged. It’s no bigger than a tube of lipstick, but it’s got enough power to fully recharge any smartphone from zero to 100%. Don’t leave yourself vulnerable to a situation where internet access or GPS is essential.

    Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. High-Quality Filtered Water Bottle

    This is one of the best, easiest, and most effective filters out there. It’s a small investment to ensure you have control over your water supply for your entire trip to Nicaragua. The tap water is generally safe here, but it’s also heavily treated with chlorine, which can have a gnarly chemical flavor. This Grayl filtered water bottle will remove harmful bacteria, viruses, sediment, chlorine, and more, while also improving the taste of your water. We love ours and wouldn’t travel to a less developed country without it.

    High-Quality Filtered Water Bottle

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Activated Charcoal

    Speaking of clean water, contaminated tap water can cause illness just like street food or a gourmet meal. Prevent any water- or food-poisoning with these activated charcoal tablets. These work like a magnet to draw toxins from your system and prevent any pathogens from absorbing in your stomach. They will stop a tummy ache in its tracks and get you back on your feet way faster.

    Activated Charcoal

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    This toiletry bag is a must-have on your Nicaraguan getaway. It folds up into a compact case when you’re on-the-go, with 3 external pockets for easy access. Then the 360-swivel hook can unfold to hang this bag anywhere you can dream up! A door, hook, shower pole, towel rack, (branch if you’re camping), and more.

    So much thoughtfulness went into this bag from a design and functionality standpoint. Eco Sun is a women-owned business that understands what travelers need in an organizer. You won’t have to use plastic sacks or tons of random bags to hold all of your bottles since the 4 internal pockets hold all skincare, haircare, dental, and hygiene items. Plus, it makes a nice makeup bag too, with elastic bands that keep products from slipping and sliding.

    hanging toiletry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Like all Central American countries, Nicaragua has a warm and wet climate with a lot of rainfall, especially in the wet season. This travel umbrella will help you protect yourself from the sun and rain, no matter where you go. Unlike regular travel umbrellas, this one was built with resin-infused fiberglass ribs that can survive strong gusts of wind and heavy use.

    Windproof Travel Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Between the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, Lake Nicaragua, and the tropical rainforest, Nicaragua has a lot of water. You’ll want to keep your phone in a waterproof case while outdoors to protect it from succumbing to water damage. This universal waterproof phone case is my favorite lightweight travel phone case. It fits any regular-sized smartphone and is rated to be safe up to 100 feet underwater.

    Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Floating Wrist Strap

    If you’re smart, you’ll attach a flotation strap to your phone, keys, or any other essentials. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way when my phone fell in the ocean (with a waterproof case) but it didn’t matter because it sunk to the bottom before I could retrieve it. Always attach these flotation wristlets to ensure things stay buoyant while you’re out boating, snorkeling, and swimming through the stunning Nicaraguan waters. This way, you can scoop your phone up instead of losing it to the deep.

    Floating Wrist Strap

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Cooling Towel

    Nicaragua can get quite hot – especially in windless inland areas during summer. This cooling towel will help you beat the heat – just dip it in any water source and apply it to your face and neck for instant relief. It’s easy on your skin, dries off quickly, and packs down to a small size for travel, staying frosty for up to an hour! Just add more water and wring it out to repeat the magical process again.

    Cooling Towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Packing Cubes

    Ever since I discovered these packing cubes, I’ve used them to help organize my gear on all of my travels – especially international trips. These bags make it easier to pack more clothing and gear into a smaller space and help you find what you’re looking for faster too. They come in a set of five different sizes, plus two free laundry bags that are ideal for storing dirty clothes.

    packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What’s the electricity and power supply like in Nicaragua?

Nicaragua power Compared to other Central American countries, Nicaragua generates the lowest amount of electricity and also has the lowest percentage of the population with access to electricity. 90% of the country is served by the National Interconnected System, and the remaining 10% rely on isolated generators for electricity. 75% of the electricity is still generated from petroleum, although the government is currently expanding the renewable energy sector. Other significant sources of electricity are geothermal, thermal, and hydroelectric.

In the 1990s, the electrical system in Nicaragua was privatized, with the hope that this would expand access to the entire population of the country. Unfortunately, these efforts failed to achieve the desired results. The high dependence on oil led to an electrical crisis in 2006, from which the country is still recovering. Today, blackouts are becoming less common in Nicaragua, but they are still a fairly common occurrence, especially in remote areas. That’s why it’s always a good idea to be prepared to be self-sufficient in case of a power outage and travel with a headlamp and portable power bank or solar panel.

Do I need a voltage converter in Nicaragua?

In Nicaragua, the standard voltage is 120 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. Since this is the same voltage that is used in the USA, you won’t need a voltage converter to visit Nicaragua.

If you end up traveling to other countries on the same trip, make sure to study the electrical system for each country you plan to visit. You can usually find the safe voltage range on the back or the side of your electronic devices.

Other FAQs About Traveling to Nicaragua

  • 1. Is it safe for foreigners to travel to Nicaragua?

    Is it safe for foreigners to travel to Nicaragua?

    According to the US Department of State, Nicaragua is listed as a number three travel advisory, reconsider travel (between number one, exercise normal precautions, and number four, do not travel) due to limited healthcare availability, crime, and wrongful detention.

    However, much of this outlook is due to the tense relationship between the US and Nicaraguan governments. Like all Latin American countries, Nicaragua does have a high crime rate, and any visitor should be careful.

    That said, there is far more crime in Mexico, where millions of Americans visit every year, and 99% of travelers to Nicaragua report only positive experiences. If you go, use common sense, travel smart, avoid high-crime areas, and you shouldn’t have any issues.

  • 2. Do I need to speak Spanish in Nicaragua?

    The tourist industry is far less developed in Nicaragua than in other Central American countries like Costa Rica or Panama, and fewer locals speak fluent English. It’s a good idea to learn to speak a little Spanish before you travel here – especially if you plan to travel to remote areas.

    That said, not every visitor needs to speak perfect Spanish before traveling to Central America. If you learn some basic phrases and make an attempt to communicate in the local language, you’ll make new friends, and you’ll be surprised how quickly you can pick up new words.

  • 3. How much should I budget for Nicaragua?

    How much should I budget for Nicaragua?

    In my experience, Nicaragua is far cheaper than many other Central American countries – and you can travel here for a fraction of the cost of a similar trip to Costa Rica. Ten years ago, I paid just $1 a night for a lakeside hammock at a hostel on Isla Ometepe. In recent years, costs have gone up in Nicaragua, but it’s still extremely affordable compared to travel in North America or Europe. The average costs for a one-week vacation to Nicaragua in 2023 are $1,800 for one person or $3,000 for a couple. Experienced budget travelers can get by on much less.

  • 4. Do I need a visa to visit Nicaragua from the US?

    One of the great things about traveling to Nicaragua is that most people don’t need a visa! Americans can visit Nicaragua for up to 90 days visa-free. This includes travel to other nearby Central American countries, including Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

  • 5. Where should I visit in Nicaragua?

    Where should I visit in Nicaragua?

    Despite its small size, Nicaragua has a lot to offer travelers, and it’s impossible to see it all. An excellent home base for exploring the country is Grenada, a historic city on the northern shore of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America. In the southern part of the lake, Isla Ometepe is a beautiful volcanic island covered in jungle where you can kayak, hike, bird watch, or simply relax in a hammock and enjoy nature. Just a few hours away on the Pacific Coast, San Juan del Sur is a perfect place to swim in the Pacific Ocean, surf, or check out the nearby sea turtle reserve.

    We use Get Your Guide to book all of our international excursions due to their diverse activities, discounted rates, and flexible cancellation policy.

    See all Nicaragua attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜