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Lake Nicaragua

© www.123rf.com / Michael Zysman

Getting around in Nicaragua

Air: 

Given the relative size of the country and the difficulty of some ground travel routes, internal flights are worth considering. La Costeña (www.tacaregional.com) and Atlantic Airlines (www.atlanticairlinesint.com) cover a wide range of internal routes.

Note: Managua International Airport charges an airport management fee of US$1.50 or local equivalent for travellers on domestic routes.

Side of road: 
Right
Road quality: 

Lack of road safety is probably the biggest single hazard to travellers in Nicaragua.

Some main roads connecting major towns and cities are paved and in a reasonable state, but in general, road conditions are poor.

In the wet season especially, driving can be problematic.

It is advised not to drive at night.

Car hire: 

Car hire: Available in Managua or at the airport from local and international companies. Cars with drivers can be hired.

Taxi: 

Taxi: Available at the airport or in Managua. Prices should be agreed before departure. A map of each area in the city determines taxi prices. No tip is expected.

Coach: 

Regulations: 

Regulations: Speed limits vary according to the type of road, but these are rarely enforced.

Documentation: 

Documentation: National licences are only valid for 30 days. Insurance is essential.

Getting around towns and cities: 

The bus and minibus services in Managua are cheap, but they can be both crowded and confusing. Authorised taxis have red licence plates.

Rail: 

There is no passenger rail service at present.

By water: 

A twice-weekly boat service runs between Bluefields and the Corn Islands. It is also possible to visit the 300 or so islands on Lake Nicaragua, which are very beautiful.

Recommended Sites:

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