Car Rental at Managua Airport

Airport travel guide

Nicaragua is quickly becoming one of Central America’s most popular travel destinations - and so is its capital city, Managua. The city suffered heavily in an earthquake in 1972, but a number of notable colonial buildings survived or have been restored. Managua is reimagining itself as a hub of culture and innovation. Better yet, the capital serves as a jumping-off point to explore the rest of Nicaragua’s beautiful nature. Renting a car in Managua to explore Nicaragua’s many stunning lakes, volcanoes, beaches, and lush jungles is a must! Below are some of the most notable attractions in Managua, and throughout Nicaragua. For more ideas of the best things to see and do in the country,  see these Nicaragua itenerary.

• Old Cathedral of Managua. Also known as the Catedral de Santiago, this beautiful church dates back to the early 20th century. It was actually designed and built in Belgium, then shipped over to Nicaragua! Now in ruins after suffering through two earthquakes, this beautiful Neoclassical cathedral is closed and awaiting renovation. While in Managua, make sure to visit this cathedral and snap a photo of its lovely façade.
• Tiscapa Lagoon. A freshwater lagoon that has filled the crater of a now extinct volcano, Tiscapa is one of the most popular natural attractions in Greater Managua. The lagoon is part of the natural reserve of the same name and also has some landmarks related to Nicaragua’s turbulent political past. Tiscapa is northwest of the city center and the drive there takes about 15 minutes.
• Ancient footprints of Acahualinca. One of the most unusual attractions of the Nicaraguan capital, the ancient footprints date back more than 2,000 years when a small group of people passed an area near the southern shore of Lake Managua, most likely escaping a volcanic eruption. Named after the suburb of Acahualinca, the site is now accompanied by a museum that also showcases some interesting artifacts of the Indigenous Nicaraguan cultures. The drive from the city center takes only about 20 minutes.
• Granada. The most beautiful colonial city in Nicaragua, Granada is definitely worth a visit. While there, make sure to stroll the old town, explore the little islands on Lake Cocibolca (Central America’s largest lake), browse the local market, hike up the Masaya Volcano, learn about chocolate-making, and visit nearby Laguna de Apoyo. The drive from Managua to Granada takes about 1 hour.
• León. The cultural capital of Nicaragua, León is one of the country’s most interesting destinations. Known for its impressive cathedral and other well-preserved architecture, the city also boasts such unique attractions as the Museum of the Revolution and the Museum of Myths and Legends. The city is surrounded by many volcanoes, including Cerro Negro. From the city, there are many tours that not only offer volcano climbing, but also volcano boarding. The drive from the capital to León takes about 2 hours.

Top international routes

• Miami
• San Salvador
• San Jose, Costa Rica
• Houston
• Corn Island
• Panama City
• Bluefields
• Puerto Cabezas
• Mexico City
• Fort Lauderdale

Main airlines

Copa Airlines, Iberia, Avianca El Salvador, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Air Canada, and Aeromexico

Terminals

The single airport terminal is divided into a west wing (the international sector) and an east wing (the domestic sector).

Location

Managua Airport is about 11 km (6.8 mi) north of Managua. Motorway CA-1/Panamericana and Calle Francisco are the main roads connecting the airport to the city.

Most popular types of rental car

• Medium cars - from $52 per day
• Large cars - from $70 per day
• SUVs - from $84 per day
• Small cars - from $28 per day

Car rental desks

Some are located inside the airport terminal. The exact location of your car rental provider's desk will be listed on your Confirmation Voucher.

Services and facilities

You’ll find a few snack bars, coffee shops, and small restaurants serving local Nicaraguan cuisine, as well as a few shops, including duty-free outlets. There are also ATMs, two bank offices, a currency exchange, a lounge, a lost and found office at the airport’s information center, and a first aid station. Unfortunately, no luggage storage services are available. Passengers with reduced mobility are advised to contact their airlines in advance to request assistance at the airport.

Nearest gas station

Gasolinera Uno is located on Carretera Norte, which is a part of the Pan-American Highway, and can be reached in about three minutes. It will be on your right when leaving the airport and driving towards the city. There are many other gas stations near Managua Airport and on the way to Managua.

Popular one-way rentals

• Granada (50 km / 31 mi)
• Rivas (104 km / 64 miles)