Getting There & Away: San Juan Del Sur

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), Managua, Nicaragua: Nicaragua's main international airport. Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), Liberia, Costa Rica: An alternative, particularly handy for those combining a trip to Nicaragua with Costa Rica.

Airline Routes & Tips

MGA: Avianca, Copa Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Aeroméxico fly here.
Routes frequently include layovers in Central American or North American hubs.
Flight prices generally rise during peak dry season (Dec-Apr) and holidays.

Transfers to San Juan del Sur

From MGA (Managua): Tourist shuttles are the most common and simple option, costing US$30-US$50 per person, taking 2.5-3.5 hours. Taxis gain hire from the airport (US$80-US$120).

Transfer Options & Booking

Public Bus (MGA): Cheapest but most time-consuming; involves multiple transfers to Rivas then SJDS.
From LIR (Liberia): Many companies present direct shuttles (US$30-US$60), including border crossing help.
Booking flights several months in advance is suggested for better rates. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Best Flight Deals

Booking your flights several months in advance is suggested to gain better rates.

Current Routes

LIR commonly presents more direct flights from various U.S. And Canadian cities.

Airport Facilities

Managua's airport holds standard facilities, Liberia's often looks more modern.

Land Transportation

Border Crossing Peñas Blancas

Exit Costa Rica: Pay ~US$8-US$9 exit tax, get passport stamped.
Walk across a ~500m no-man's land between posts.
Enter Nicaragua: Pay US$10-US$12 tourist card fee in US cash, get passport stamped.
Operating hours: Generally 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Check current times.

Bus Options

"Chicken Buses": Inexpensive but crowded and slow, making frequent stops.
Express Buses: Faster, more comfortable, for routes like Managua to Rivas.
International Buses: Companies like Tica Bus and Nica Bus connect Central American countries, often stopping in Rivas.
Road Conditions: Main highways are paved. Roads to surf beaches can be unpaved, dusty/muddy.

Self-Driving & Car Rentals

Requirements

A valid driver's license from your home country is needed. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly suggested.

Rental Locations

It is preferable to rent from Managua airport or Liberia (Costa Rica) as options directly in San Juan del Sur are few.

Vehicle Type

A 4x4 vehicle is often suggested if you plan to explore off main roads, especially during the rainy season.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Ports

Direct international sea or river arrivals for tourists into San Juan del Sur are infrequent. San Juan del Sur does not act as a regular international ferry port.

Cruise Ship Visits

Cruise ships occasionally dock in the bay for day visits.
Passengers leave the ship via tenders to reach the town.
These visits are commonly short, day-long excursions.

River Transportation

Nicaragua holds extensive river systems, especially the San Juan River. These are not direct routes to San Juan del Sur. River transportation is mostly for local commerce.

Immigration & Connections

Immigration procedures for cruise ship passengers are typically managed by the cruise line.
Independent sea arrivals are uncommon and call for specific clearance not typically arranged.
Individual travelers arriving by sea would want to arrange private taxis from the pier.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Nicaragua levies a departure tax, commonly around US$3. It is frequently included in international air tickets. If departing by land, or if not included in your airfare, it might be collected separately.

Timing Recommendations

Airports (MGA/LIR): Arrive at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
Land Borders (Peñas Blancas): Give ample time for queues and formalities (1-3 hours).
Weekends and holidays often see longer wait times.

Airport & Station Facilities

Managua Airport (MGA) presents basic facilities for departing travelers, including shops for last-minute souvenirs, cafes, and currency exchange services.

Border Crossing Facilities

Facilities at land borders are typically more basic, with minimal amenities.
Be certain you have small U.S. Dollar bills or Córdobas for any final fees.
Confirm any specific requirements with your airline or border officials.

Important Considerations for Departure

Check Flight Status

Always check your flight status and any airline announcements before heading to the airport.

Customs & Security

Be aware of baggage restrictions and prohibited items for both carry-on and checked luggage.

Final Currency Exchange

Exchange any remaining Córdobas to USD before leaving, as it may be difficult outside Nicaragua.

Travel Planning Tip

For a smooth departure, pre-arrange your airport transfer, especially for early morning flights.

Getting There & Away