You’d like to combine meaningful work with an adventurous trip? Take the chance to support the on-going development as a volunteer in Nicaragua and explore its breath-taking diversity. You won’t regret it.
With its old-fashion charm and diverse nature, Nicaragua is the ideal destination for merging volunteer work with your passion for travelling. Lively culture and a constant political improvement with neighbouring countries lead to an increasing number of tourists every year. Although the accessibility to Nicaragua has never been better, the general development is still in progress. If you decide to volunteer in Nicaragua, there’re a lot of options to contribute to the work of teams on the ground. You don’t know much about Nicaragua yet? This article provides you with any information that you might need.
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[item title=”Top 6 fun facts about Nicaragua”]
- In total, there are 88 constellations that you can admire in the sky. In Nicaragua, it’s possible to see 86 of them clearly
- Each year for the past decade, tourism has increased nearly 10%
- In almost every Latin American country, football is the national sport. In Nicaragua it is baseball
- If you are looking for a certain street, good luck. There are no street names in the address system in Nicaragua
- The eastern coast is also known as Mosquito Coast because this area receives more rainfall than any other country in Central America
- Nicaragua is considered to be Central Americas Tropical Paradise
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Social Projects in Nicaragua
As a volunteer in Nicaragua you have the unique opportunity, to take part in the educational and environmental development, which is still in progress. As the second poorest country in the western hemisphere, there are still manifold problems that need to be faced.
In terms of education, you can help to clarify the importance of school and campaign against the abolition of child labour. Your dedication to country, culture and local requirements can help to make Nicaragua a place that is worth to be noticed in the world.
Education
Although education is compulsory and basically free, there are still many children that have never seen a school building from the inside. One main problem are additional costs, that can’t be afforded by a majority of the poor population. Therefore, the statistics are quite alarming. In the past few years, 20% of the children didn’t go to school at all and only 56% graduated.
As a volunteer in Nicaragua you can help to raise these numbers. Within many programs, you have the opportunity to support the learning progress by being a classroom assistant or an actual primary school teacher. Besides teaching English, you give the children an understanding of ethical principles and their various opportunities if they finish school. Therefore, your effort can help to increase their chances for a better future.
Community
Walk to the streets on a school day and you will find a striking number of kids selling cold drinks, food or handicrafts. Especially in the rural areas, most families are living under the poverty line. For that reason, the popularity of child labour is unfortunately not surprising. In most cases, this is the only way to earn enough money to ensure survival of the family.
If your work as a volunteer in Nicaragua deals with children and their needs, it’s important to point out their future options in an early stage already. As many people before, who took the chance to volunteer in Nicaragua, you will probably share the same experiences: You’re not just a person who teaches and supports young children in a playful way – you will be learn from them as well. Through the open-minded nature of the young Nicaraguan, it will be very easy to foster a cultural exchange. Help the teams on the ground to encourage learning progresses by assisting in a Kindergarten or a sports program.
Besides fighting against social disadvantages, there are other grievances that a volunteer in Nicaragua can help to resolve. Until today, the supply of drinking water as well as access to sanitation is still an issue. Since only 60% of rural Nicaragua has access to clean water and just 30% are able to use sanitation in the surrounding region, a volunteer in Nicaragua has the chance to join on-site teams to improve these rural standards.
Business
You attend to do something meaningful and like to extend your knowledge at the same time? Why not participating in a social business program? As well as any other company, a social project needs certain business relations and a strong external appearance to call attention from potential donors.
When you volunteer in Nicaragua, it’s not always about helping kids or the environment. By joining a social program with a focus on business, you can make a difference by optimising organisational processes or by improving online presence. Volunteers are also welcome to contribute their ideas concerning a development of donor recruitment strategies. Through your commitment, you can help to secure the continued existence of social projects in Nicaragua.
Besides the fact that I love working with kids and teaching them because I am a primary school teacher, I also learned a lot for myself during the time I spent with the children.
– Stefanie (22), Volunteer from Germany
Living costs for a volunteer in Nicaragua
Besides paying your fees, you don’t have to spend much money to have a good time as a volunteer in Nicaragua. Especially public transport is very inexpensive so you’re able to explore the country, even if you plan a low-budget trip.
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| Hotel $ 62.82 |
Big Mac® $ 6.00 |
Coca-Cola® $ 0.91 |
Eating out $ 8.00 |
Rental car $ 367.25/week |
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| Hostel $ 8.66 |
Marlboro™ $ 1.43 |
Beer $ 1.07 |
Fuel $ 0.76 |
Public transport $ 0.09 |
Best time to volunteer in Nicaragua
If you decide to volunteer in Nicaragua, weather conditions should be considered while making your travel plans.
Good news first: when it comes to seasons, there is never a bad time to visit this country. But still, the climate changes according to different regions, so the best period to go varies. Let’s find the perfect time for your stay by taking a closer look at the two main seasons – summer and winter.
Winter (May – Nov)
Even in winter, you don’t have to worry about low temperatures and chilly nights. When packing for either season, keep in mind that temperature will not fall below 21ºC (70ºF). But think about packing an umbrella. If you don’t mind short rainfalls every now and then, you should be fine to travel in winter. Lush, green scenery, rough nature and bigger waves to surf the are just a few things that you can get excited about in this season.
Summer (Dec – Apr)
The dry season is probably the most touristic period as the weather conditions promise long sunbaths and a lot of room for outdoors like hiking or kayaking.
But be aware that prices increase by up to 25% in touristic regions. So weigh the odds if constant sunshine is worth the money.
What precautions should I consider as a volunteer in Nicaragua?
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[item title=”Health”]
- Reduce the risk of diarrhea by avoiding unclean food or water
- Bugs can spread many diseases in Nicaragua, which can’t be prevented by vaccines – try to cover your skin at any time
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for some Nicaraguan districts
- There’re certain vaccines, that should be renewed. For further information please click here
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[item title=”Safety”]
- Be careful when dealing with animals as their bites and scratches can lead to serious infections
- Use cash instead of credit cards. Cloning cards is very common in some regions
- Don’t carry bigger amounts of money in just one bag
- As poverty is widely spread in Nicaragua, try to avoid wearing expensive jewellery
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[item title=”Culture”]
- If you don’t speak Spanish at an advanced level, stick your nose in some books before you go
- Poetry is more important in Nicaraguan culture than any other land in South America
- Don’t rush to a meeting in Nicaragua. Punctuality isn’t very common
- Depending where you go, locals may stare at you. Don’t take this as an insult. There’re still not really used to tourists
- Don’t flush the toilet paper[/item][item title=”Religion”]With the Spanish conquerors during the 16th century, the propagation of Catholicism started. Nowadays, over 90 % of the population belong to the Christian Church. An important fact to know: the Roman Catholic Church exerts a great influence on politics in Nicaragua. Therefore, many educational institutions are under the responsibility of Catholic bodies. Due to the wide distribution of Catholicism, locals hold numerous festivals to honour patron saints and the church.[/item][item title=”Packing Essentials”]
- Flashlight (Electricity isn’t really reliable)
- Padlock
- Sunscreen (for some reasons, it’s really expensive in Nicaragua)
- Binoculars (for a closer look at wildlife)
- Umbrella
- Toilet paper (it’s not always available)[/item][/accordion]
Useful key phrases
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| Hello: [Hola] | Goodbye: [Adiós] | Thank you: [Gracias] | How are you?: [Cómo estás?] |
How to spend your free time as a volunteer in Nicaragua?
As the biggest country in Central America, it definitely takes some time to get around and experience all the stunning sceneries that Nicaragua has to offer. Even if you travel on your own you don’t have to worry about criminal issues at all. Although it’s one of the poorest countries, it’s one of the safest as well. According to Interpol and United Nations, the crime rate is surprisingly low.
Despite that, Nicaragua opened for tourism only in recent years. And it pays off already, as it has become one of the insider tips in South America. As there’s so much to explore, you don’t need to plan in advance but it’s always advisable to have some information ahead. Therefore, this overview of “must-do’s” will help to get the most out of your time as a volunteer in Nicaragua.
Natural landmarks
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[item title=”Ometepe Island”]
Save your air if this destination is on your bucket list – because it might take your breath. Located in the middle of Lake Nicaragua and formed by two volcanoes, this island is one of the top spots for hiking and kayaking.
If you like it a bit more adventurous, rent a motorbike or squad to explore the island by yourself. But always eyes wide open! You may see many rustling trees housing various monkey species.
Insider tip: Just getting around volcanoes isn’t enough for you? Volcano boarding on Cerro Negro will be perfect for you. Try to manage staying on board when you go down its steep slope; it may be a little bit challenging. So prepare to get dirty![/item]
[item title=”Cloud forest”]
As the largest country in Central America, it domiciles one of the largest cloud forests as well. If you are brave enough, you should visit La Selva Negra to explore the huge variation of insects. Make sure to stay as long as you can to raise your chance of coming close to jaguars and eagles.
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[item title=”Masaya Volcano National Park”]
Go to Masaya and experience the power of active volcanoes. After every eruption, the surrounding vegetation appears to be different. Smoking volcanoes, rough nature and an enormous biodiversity are waiting for you on your trip around the spitting monsters. If you’re fit enough, you can even climb a volcano and have a peek into the crater.
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Culture
[accordion][item title=”San Sebastian Festival”]
During the third weekend in January, locals celebrate one of the most unique festivals in Nicaragua. Since colonial times, the San Sebastian festival combines religion with ancient music and theatrics.[/item]
[item title=”Colonial cities”]
As tourism just started to grow in recent years, many cities are maintained original. If you’d like to learn more about the historical Nicaragua, it’s probably the best idea to visit one of the colonial cities. As one example, Leon is known for its easy-going atmosphere and well-preserved cathedrals and historic theatres. As it is called the intellectual home of Nicaragua, you can explore various art collections, busy nightlife or the full range of poetry.[/item]
[item title=”Bluefields”]
If you’re eager to get in touch with the indigenous culture a little bit more, walk through the streets of this cosmopolitan city. As part of the South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region the clocks are ticking otherwise. Get in touch with locals and learn about the different ethnics and their very own languages.[/item]
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Insider tip: A cheap alternative to a taxi and much more fun to travel with, are chicken busses. But be aware that the name doesn’t come without a good reason. If the bus is already loaded with people, you can also travel on the roof rack.
Cuisine
If you like to immerse into Nicaraguan cuisine, you might to do some exercises before going to bed. Through Spanish and Caribbean influences, Nicaraguan food differs from other Central American countries and convinces through its culinary creativity. Don’t start the day without eating gallo pinto. This dish made of rice and beans will give you enough energy for your volunteer work.
Insider Tip: Eat at fritangas to save some money on your trip. These restaurants in buffet style serve typical Nicaraguan food at a reasonable price.
Beaches
You think a beach is a beach and doesn’t vary that much compared to other countries? In that case you are very wrong. Especially in winter should pay a visit to the coastal regions in Nicaragua. Impressive waves in volcano bays that you can surf is just one fact you can get excited about. Here are some beaches that are famous for their unusual nature
[accordion][item title=”San Juan del Sur”]
If you enjoy extended sunbaths during the day and wild parties at night, this spot will be perfect for you. As the most famous beach in the backpacker scene, you will find cheap bars and food all over the place. There are also many surf schools around; so add a little bit action to your stay. [/item]
[item title=”Corn Islands”]
Golden as corn, the beach extends all along the Caribbean coast and is surrounded by clear, turquoise water. As it has a certain Caribbean flair, you will embrace your inner sloth the minute you arrive.[/item]
[item title=”El Coco”]
El Coco is a quiet beach and suitable for everyone, who likes it a little bit more noiseless. If you are a calm swimmer, you may be able to see some turtles.[/item]
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Best experiece was playing with children, seeing their smiles as they were playing. Seeing preschool children with many difficulties achieve, write, and understand. – Tiffany (22) , Volunteer from France
Volunteer Requirements
- You should speak Spanish and English at an advanced level
- The minimum age is at least 18 years
- In most cases, a CV is required
How to find Volunteer Opportunities in Nicaragua
Are you curious about your volunteer opportunities in Nicaragua? Explore various volunteer programs and find your very own volunteer opportunity abroad on Volunteer World. Featuring more than 500 volunteer programs and over 600 social projects in 70+ countries, Volunteer World is a one-stop resource for volunteer abroad opportunities. Find your perfect match for Nicaragua on the platform in a simple and transparent way.
