Nicaragua - Money

Currency & Money

Currency information:

Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO; symbol C$) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of C$500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of C$10, 5 and 1, and 50, 25, 10 and 5 centavos.

Credit cards:

Major credit cards are widely accepted by hotels and tourist places. However, many mom-and-pop operations may deal in cash only.

ATM:

ATMs are available in tourist areas. You can withdraw cash in local Córdoba or US dollars from ATMs. When using cash, don't accept notes that are ripped or have marks on them.

Travellers cheques:

Traveller's cheques are no longer relevant and should be avoided.

Banking hours:

Mon-Fri 0830-1630, Sat 0830-1230.

Currency restriction:

The import of local and foreign currency is unlimited, subject to declaration of amounts exceeding the equivalent of US $10,000 on arrival. There are no restrictions on the export of local and foreign currency.

Currency exchange:

The US dollar is the most popular foreign currency and can be freely exchangeable in Nicaragua. Avoid using unofficial street money changers as assaults have been reported.

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