León, Nicaragua's primary transport hub is its main bus terminal, located about a 15-minute walk from the city center, which serves as a central point for bus and microbus services to various national destinations. Taxis and bicycle taxis are also readily available for getting around the city.
From Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), Managua:
Taxi/Private Transfer:: A direct taxi or private transfer from MGA to León typically costs between $100 and $150 USD and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Tourist Shuttle:: Shared tourist shuttles offer a convenient option, with services from Managua or directly from MGA to León. Prices can range from $12 to $150 USD, and the travel time is usually 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Companies like Rooney Shuttle and Bigfoot Shuttles operate these services.
Public Bus (Chicken Bus/Microbus):: This is the most economical choice. First, take a taxi from MGA to the UCA Bus Terminal in Managua, which costs around $10 USD and takes about 25-30 minutes. From UCA, microbuses to León depart frequently (when full) and cost approximately 51-78 Nicaraguan Cordobas (C$) (around $1.80-$2 USD). The microbus journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours. The total journey time from the airport to León via public bus can be around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, including transfers and waiting times.
By Car Rental:
Car rentals are available in León and at Managua Airport, with daily rates starting from approximately $23-$26 USD.
From Managua (City):
Direct express buses from León to Managua cost about 52 C$ and take 2.5 hours, while microbuses are around 61-78 C$ and take about 2 hours. These services run frequently throughout the day.
From Granada:
Travel from León to Granada typically involves a transfer in Managua, with the total bus journey taking approximately 4 hours and costing around 90 C$ (about $3 USD). Direct shuttles are also an option for around $15 USD, taking approximately 4 hours.
From Estelí:
Direct express buses connect León and Estelí, running about three times a day. The trip is approximately 2.5 hours and costs 95 C$. Microbuses are also available.
From Matagalpa:
There are typically three direct express buses daily between León and Matagalpa, with a travel time of 2.5 to 3 hours and a cost of 88 C$.
To Las Peñitas:
Local buses from León to Las Peñitas depart when full. Alternatively, a taxi ride takes about 25 minutes and costs around 250 C$ (approximately $7 USD). The last bus returning to León from Las Peñitas is generally at 6:00 PM.
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