Could someone give me some advice on driving in Nicaragua? Is is similar to Costa Rica with some paved highways mixed in with long dirt roads? Are other drivers crazy making it far to unsafe?

Thanks for your advice!

It is similar to driving in Costa Rica...only worse. The roads are oftentimes in some state of repair(kinda), traffic control devices are non existent. Get the added insurance for peace of mind. Drivers actually are more erratic than in CR, passing on curves etc. Do not drive at night due to animals (cows) on the road and drunks. This sounds dismal, but I say go for it as Nicaragua presents a myriad of experiences that the tamer Costa Rica does not offer. Driving in the early AM is best. Expect the unexpected, drive defensively and you will be fine. Leave nothing of value in your car. It is easier driving than in Manhatten, France or Italy.

Now, I disagree with Beaker. I find driving in Nicaragua much easier than in Costa Rica, mainly because in Nicaragua there are just fewer vehicles and because the major highways are in better shape. I do agree with the advice to drive defensively and not to drive outside cities and towns at night.

Passing through Managua is a breeze, and if you're doing a driving tour through Nicaragua, you'll have to, at some point, do that. Managua has no real downtown to serve as a bottleneck. (It was destroyed in the 1972 earthquake.) You have this sprawling city with highways and traffic zips along quickly. I'd never say that about driving in San Jose.

I love Costa Rica, but it amazes me that a country that has its act together in so many ways does not know how to construct decent roads.

Beaker & Jeff:
Thoughts about doing this on a motorcycle instead?

When I was in Nicaragua last December I was very impressed by how much better their roads were.

Their highway systems is just better that Costa Rica.

My Tour Guide from Costa Rica told me that the road were "good in Nicaragua" and he wasn't kidding.

Now if only Costa Rica could have their road in this condition.!!

Percy

Thank you all for the advice and putting my mind to rest on driving. I appreciate the input and will be making 4X4 rental arragements now.