Nicaragua Road Trip Itinerary
The Nicaragua Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through the country, taking in a variety of different landscapes and attractions. Starting and ending in Managua, the 1078km route takes in the towns of Granada, Rivas, El Ostional, Sapoá, Las Salinas, León, Potosi and San Juan de Limay. All of these locations have something special to offer, from the colonial architecture of Granada, to the stunning beaches of El Ostional, and the vibrant culture of León.
The best time of year to drive the route is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the roads are in good condition and the views are particularly stunning.
Overall, the Nicaragua Road Trip is suitable for all drivers, and can be completed in 12 days. It is also possible to complete the route on a low budget, making it the perfect road trip for those travelling on a budget.
12
number of days
1,093 km
route length
low
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
high
accident level
START
Managua
Distance 1,093 km
Driving time 27.7 h
Pace: slow
251.4 kWh
Airports
MGA
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Managua is the vibrant capital of Nicaragua, and the perfect starting point for the Nicaragua Road Trip. With its bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and stunning colonial architecture, Managua has something to offer every traveler.
The city is home to many attractions, including the Ruben Dario National Theater, the National Palace of Culture, and the Managua Cathedral. For those who want to explore beyond the city, the nearby Lake Managua is a great way to spend the day.
The closest international airport to Managua is the Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA). From here, travelers can easily rent a car and begin their road trip. There are several car rental agencies located at the airport, offering competitive rates and a wide selection of vehicles.
From Managua, travelers can easily explore the rest of Nicaragua. With its stunning beaches, beautiful colonial cities, and breathtaking scenery, Nicaragua offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an adventurous getaway or a relaxing vacation, the Nicaragua Road Trip is sure to provide you with unforgettable memories.
1
Managua
- Granada
Distance 41 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
10.6 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure from Managua to Granada! This is one of the most exciting stages of the tour, with a distance of 42 km and a driving time of fewer than 1 hour.
Start your journey in Managua and visit the National Palace of Culture, the largest in Central America, or the Plaza de la Revolución, a symbol of the Nicaraguan Revolution. Then, make your way to the historic city of Granada, founded in 1524. Here, you can explore the many colonial churches and admire the colorful colonial architecture. Visit the Iglesia de la Merced and the Iglesia de Guadalupe, two of the oldest churches in the city, or the Convento San Francisco, a former monastery.
The tour doesn't end here. Take a stroll through the Central Park, or visit the nearby Isletas de Granada, a group of 365 small islands. There, you can take a boat tour and admire the wildlife.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Granada - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Granada
- Rivas
Distance 72 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
18.8 kWh
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Start your journey in Granada, Nicaragua and embark on an unforgettable road trip to Rivas! As you make your way to Isla De Ometepe, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes you will encounter along the way. The 63 km drive will take you fewer than 1 hours, but you should take your time and enjoy the beauty of the region.
Isla De Ometepe is a must-see destination, with its lush vegetation and stunning views of Lake Nicaragua. You can explore the island's two volcanoes, Maderas and Concepcion, and take a dip in the natural hot springs. Or, if you're looking for a more adventurous experience, you can hike the trails and take in the breathtaking views of the island. After you've explored the island, it's time to make your way to Rivas.
Rivas is the perfect place to end your road trip. Here you can explore the city's colonial architecture, visit the local markets, and savor the delicious local cuisine. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Rivas - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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3
Rivas
- El Ostional
Distance 59 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
13.5 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a scenic adventure from Rivas to El Ostional. This 59 km journey will take you fewer than 2 hours of driving and will take you through some of the most beautiful places in Nicaragua.
In Rivas, make sure to visit the San Juan del Sur beach and the iconic Iglesia de La Merced. From there, you will be able to marvel at the stunning views of Lake Nicaragua and the majestic Mombacho Volcano.
As you drive through the countryside, make sure to stop in Tola and San Juan de la Concepcion. Here you can take a break and enjoy the local cuisine, or take a walk and explore the area.
Finally, you will reach El Ostional, where you can visit the beautiful Ostional Beach and the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. Here, you can take a boat tour to admire the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
El Ostional - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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4
El Ostional
- Sapoá
Distance 33 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
7.6 kWh
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Are you looking for a fun and exciting road trip experience? Then look no further! El Ostional, Nicaragua to Sapoá is a great route to explore. This stage of the journey is only 35km and can be completed in less than two hours.
Start your road trip in El Ostional, where you can take a walk along the beach and enjoy the beautiful sunsets. Then, head to the nearby island of La Venada, where you can explore the mangroves, lagoons, and wildlife.
Continue your journey to Sapoá, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the nearby mountains. Here, you can also visit the local market and get a closer look at the daily life of the locals.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!
Sapoá - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Sapoá
- Las Salinas
Distance 72 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: modest
18.8 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage between Sapoá and Las Salinas! This journey will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nicaragua, all within a short drive of 73 km that will take you fewer than 2 hours.
The first stop along the way is in Sapoá, a small town with a rich history and culture. Here you can visit the Sapoá Archaeological Park, where you will find the ruins of an ancient settlement. You can also explore the nearby Sapoá River, where you can take a boat ride and visit the nearby islands.
The second stop is in Las Salinas. Here you will find a stunning beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. You can also explore the nearby nature reserve, where you can find a variety of wildlife.
This is just one of the many stages of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Las Salinas - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - pixabay
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6
Las Salinas
- Jinotepe
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
16.8 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Las Salinas to Jinotepe, a 65 km journey that will take you just under two hours. As you drive you will be able to admire the beautiful landscapes of Nicaragua.
In Las Salinas, you can visit the San Rafael del Norte Church, which is an architectural landmark of the city. The church is known for its beautiful Baroque style. You can also visit the San Juan de la Concepcion church, which is the oldest church in the city.
As you drive to Jinotepe, you will pass through some stunning scenery. You can also stop at the El Chocoyero Natural Reserve, which is a protected area for the local wildlife. You can take a walk through the reserve and observe the many species of birds and plants.
When you arrive in Jinotepe, you can visit the San Francisco Church and the San Miguel Arcangel Church. You can also explore the ruins of the old Jinotepe Castle, which was built in the 16th century.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready and hop on this amazing journey!
Jinotepe - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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7
Jinotepe
- León
Distance 111 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: modest
28.9 kWh
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Embark on an amazing 120km road trip from Jinotepe to León! This journey will take you less than two hours and you will be able to visit many interesting places along the way.
In Jinotepe, you can visit the Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís, a beautiful 19th century church built in neoclassical style. There is also the Jinotepe Museum, which is a great place to learn about the history of the city.
Your next stop is the town of El Sauce, where you can visit the historical ruins of the San Francisco de Asís Church. This church was built in the 16th century and is a great example of colonial architecture.
As you continue your journey, you will arrive in Diriamba, where you can visit the Iglesia de la Asunción, a beautiful church built in the 18th century.
Your final destination is León, the largest city in Nicaragua. Here you can visit the Iglesia de la Recolección, a stunning church built in the 17th century. There is also the Leon Cathedral, which is one of the most impressive churches in the country.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
León - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
León
- Potosi
Distance 116 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
30.3 kWh
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Start your journey in the city of León, Nicaragua, and explore some of the country's most stunning scenery. From the city, take a 116 km drive to the Estero Padre Ramos National Park, where you can observe the diverse wildlife and explore the mangrove forests. This route will take you less than 4 hours, so you can make the most of your time.
Once you reach the park, you can take a guided tour to learn about the protected species and the local culture. You can also take a boat ride to the nearby islands, where you can spot various species of birds. Don't forget to take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the park.
After your time in the park, continue your trip to Potosi, where you can explore the local culture, architecture, and history. You can also visit the nearby beaches, where you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Take this amazing road trip and explore the beauty of Nicaragua!
Potosi - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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9
Potosi
- San Juan de Limay
Distance 210 km
Driving time 5.1 h
Pace: modest
54.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Potosi, Nicaragua to San Juan de Limay? This 209 km journey will take you less than 6 hours, and along the way, you will discover some of the most interesting places in the region.
In Potosi, the first stop of the tour, you can explore the incredible La Paz Waterfall Gardens and the Poas Volcano National Park. In San Juan de Limay, the last stop, you can visit the Miravalles Volcano and the Santa Maria de Ostuma Church.
This stage is part of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip and enjoy the amazing views and attractions along the way!
San Juan de Limay - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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10
San Juan de Limay
- Matagalpa
Distance 194 km
Driving time 7.5 h
Pace: slow
44.5 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from San Juan de Limay to Matagalpa! This stage of the journey takes you through 177 km of beautiful landscapes in Nicaragua, with a driving time of fewer than 5 hours.
Follow the Pan-American Highway and enjoy the lush vegetation of the Cordillera Isabella as you make your way towards Matagalpa. Along the way, you will find several interesting attractions, such as the San Isidro de El Guayabo National Park, the El Castillo Ruins, and the San Juan de Limay River.
Keep your eyes peeled for picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and the towns of El Jicaro and El Cuá. You can also stop for a bite to eat and take a break at the local restaurants in Matiguás and El Jícaro.
At the end of your journey, you will reach Matagalpa, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. Here, you can visit the San Ramon Waterfall and the Las Brisas Natural Reserve.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a safe trip!
Matagalpa - Nicaragua - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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11
Matagalpa
- Managua
Distance 121 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: modest
31.4 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready to set off on an amazing journey from Matagalpa to Managua. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, but you will still get to experience the best of both cities. The journey is only 121 km long and it should take you less than two hours to reach your destination.
In Matagalpa, you can explore the majestic Cerro Musun, a mountain that offers stunning views of the city. You can also visit the local markets and the Matagalpa Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals.
On your way to Managua, you will pass through the city of Jinotega, known for its beautiful landscapes and colonial architecture. You can also visit the nearby Laguna de Apanas and take a dip in its crystal clear waters.
Finally, in Managua, you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife, explore the city's many museums, and visit the iconic Plaza de la Revolucion.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!
Managua
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Managua, the capital of Nicaragua, is the perfect end to the Nicaragua Road Trip. Managua is located in the heart of Nicaragua and boasts a variety of attractions and activities to explore. Take a stroll down the Malecon and admire the colorful murals and sculptures. The National Palace of Culture is a must-see, where you can learn about the history and culture of Nicaragua. At the National Zoo, you can observe a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears, in their natural habitats.
For those looking for a more spiritual experience, the San Francisco Cathedral is a beautiful place to visit. The cathedral, which dates back to the mid-18th century, features a stunning gothic-style architecture. There are also a number of museums to explore, such as the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of the Revolution.
For those looking to relax, the beaches of Managua are the perfect place to unwind. Visitors can take in the beautiful scenery, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or take a boat ride around the bay.
For those traveling by air, Managua International Airport (MGA) is the closest international airport.
Managua is the perfect end to the Nicaragua Road Trip and offers something for everyone. From beautiful beaches to historic sites and cultural attractions, Managua has it all. Plan your visit today and experience the beauty of Nicaragua.
Nicaragua Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Managua
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End:
Managua
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Distance:
1,093 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (MGA)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Nicaragua Road Trip offers a captivating 1,078-kilometer adventure that begins and ends in the capital city, Managua, showcasing the country's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry. This journey is accessible to all types of travelers, including those on a budget, and can be comfortably completed over a 12-day period, offering a glimpse into the local way of life and the chance to experience the warmth of Nicaraguan hospitality.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Granada: This city is not only known for its well-preserved colonial architecture but also for being one of the oldest European-founded cities in the Americas, established in 1524. Visitors can enjoy the colorful streets, the iconic yellow Cathedral of Granada, and the views from the bell tower of Iglesia La Merced.
- Rivas: Serving as a gateway to the twin-volcano island of Ometepe, Rivas is also in proximity to splendid beaches like Playa Gigante and the famous surf destination, Popoyo.
- El Ostional: A hidden gem that offers some of Nicaragua's most beautiful and less crowded beaches, perfect for relaxation, sunbathing, and surfing enthusiasts.
- Sapoá and Las Salinas: These areas are off the beaten path and provide travelers with a taste of authentic Nicaraguan rural life and unspoiled landscapes.
- León: A city pulsating with culture and history, León is known for its rich revolutionary past, stunning murals, and the grandeur of the León Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Potosi: This small coastal town is a gateway to Nicaragua's southern beaches and offers a peaceful retreat away from more tourist-heavy areas.
- San Juan de Limay: Renowned for its unique and intricate stone-carving tradition, San Juan de Limay provides a look into the artisanal heritage of the region.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time for embarking on this Road Trip is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period is marked by favorable weather conditions, ensuring better Road quality and offering travelers spectacular views of the Nicaraguan landscape.
Potential Risks:
- Changes in weather, particularly during the rainy season, can significantly impact Road conditions.
- In remote areas, services such as gas stations and accommodations may be sparse.
- As with many popular travel destinations, petty theft can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant and protect your belongings.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Self-driving in Nicaragua provides the freedom to explore hidden gems and local spots off the traditional tourist path.
- Travelers can find rental cars and budget-friendly lodging options throughout the country.
- Be prepared for variable Road signage and conditions, especially in rural areas, and plan your route accordingly.
- Using local currency, the Nicaraguan Córdoba, is recommended for transactions, particularly in smaller towns and villages.
A good choice for:
Embarking on the Nicaragua Road Trip is an extraordinary way to immerse yourself in the country's soul, with opportunities to discover everything from enchanting colonial cities and centers of cultural richness to tranquil beaches and welcoming local communities. This journey offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests, promising to be an unforgettable adventure.
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