My credit card keeps declining in Nicaragua and I have enough money on there and all international transactions are activated - what do I do?
My experience in Nicaragua was frustrating with cards. ATMs rejected mine in Matagalpa until I tried Banpro. Many hostels and beachside restaurants in San Juan del Sur asked for cash only. Budget about 1,200-1,600 NIO daily for food and transport. Always carry córdobas and some USD, as they’re both accepted. If your card keeps failing, use BAC Credomatic or Banpro, and don’t rely solely on plastic-you’ll need cash almost everywhere.
Nicaragua is very cash-driven. I had several declines in León before finding an ATM at BAC Credomatic that worked. Even when the card worked, withdrawal limits were low. Local shops, buses, and tours all wanted cash. I carried about 1,500 NIO daily to cover meals, local travel, and entry fees. US dollars were often accepted, especially in touristy towns. If your card keeps declining, it’s normal-best solution is to use BAC or Banpro machines.
I ran into the same issue in Managua. My Mastercard was declined at two ATMs before Banpro worked. Hotels in bigger cities took cards, but most local eateries and markets were cash-only. For budgeting, I’d plan on 1,300-1,700 NIO per day for food, taxis, and activities like Masaya Volcano. If your card keeps declining, try another bank ATM or bring USD, which is widely accepted. Don’t expect cards to work everywhere in Nicaragua.
In Nicaragua, credit card rejections are very common. My Visa kept failing at ATMs in Granada until I tried BAC Credomatic, which worked. Many shops, hostels, and restaurants only accept córdobas in cash, especially in San Juan del Sur and smaller towns. Budget around 1,200-1,600 NIO daily for food, buses, and excursions. ATMs often have low withdrawal limits, so you may need multiple tries. Always carry cash-cards are not reliable here.