How to get around Nicaragua
Navigating Nicaragua is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
Traveling between cities in Nicaragua offers a range of options catering to various budgets. The most economical choices are local buses, often referred to as 'chicken buses,' which are repurposed school buses. These are very inexpensive, typically costing between $1 and $4 USD for journeys up to three or four hours, with longer trips to the Atlantic coast potentially reaching $20 USD.
Microbuses or minivans are a slightly more comfortable and direct alternative, generally costing a few córdobas more than chicken buses. For instance, a bus from León to Managua might be C$52, while a microbus is C$61. While chicken buses are known to be crowded and may involve luggage on the roof, they offer an authentic local experience.
Shared shuttle services provide a more convenient and quicker option, suitable for those in a rush or seeking more comfort, often with air conditioning. These typically cost around $25 USD per person for routes like Managua Airport to San Juan del Sur, and $15-$25 for a 90-minute ride.
Private transfers offer the most comfort and flexibility, with door-to-door service. Prices start from approximately $40 for a transfer within Managua and can range from $70 to $180 for longer routes like Managua to San Juan del Sur or San Carlos.
For reaching specific areas like Ometepe Island or the Atlantic Coast, boats are essential. A boat ride to Ometepe Island typically costs around $3-$5. Domestic flights are available for distant locations such as the Corn Islands, with round trips costing around $180-$190.
Travel Within Cities
Within Nicaraguan cities, taxis and urban buses are the primary modes of transport. Urban buses are the cheapest option, with fares varying by city, such as 2.50 C$ in Managua to 10 C$ in Bluefields.
Taxis are widely available and their fares are often negotiated before the journey, as taximeters are not commonly used. In Managua, typical taxi fares range from $1 to $3 USD during the day and $2 to $5 USD at night for most trips within the city. Outside the capital, in-town taxi fares are usually around $0.50 to $1 USD. For a private transfer within Managua, prices can start from $40.
