Managua is a city of long distances. How visitors usually move between districts, and how to reach Masaya, Granada and other towns.
Distances and heat
Managua sprawls, the sun is strong and pavements are uneven, so walking between districts is rarely practical. Most visitors walk within a neighbourhood and use taxis or private transport for anything further. Plan your day in clusters: the old centre and the lakefront together, Tiscapa and the cathedral together, and day trips as separate outings.
Taxis
Taxis are the most common way for visitors to get around. Many street taxis do not use meters, so agree on the fare before you get in. Some taxis operate as colectivos, picking up other passengers along the way; if you prefer a private ride, say so when you agree the fare. For late evenings, early flights and longer trips, a taxi recommended by your accommodation is a sensible choice. Ride-hailing apps have operated in the city as well; availability varies.
City buses
Managua has an extensive city bus network used by most residents. Routes are numbered rather than named, and buses can be very crowded at peak times. If you would like to try them, ask locals for the route number to your destination, carry small change and keep belongings close.
Leaving the city
Intercity buses and faster microbuses leave from several terminals, each serving a different direction. Departures for Masaya and Granada commonly leave from the area near the UCA university and from the terminal beside Mercado Roberto Huembes; routes north and west use other terminals. Schedules change, so ask locally the day before. Many visitors prefer an arranged private transfer for day trips that combine several stops.
Driving
Driving is on the right. Traffic is busy and rotondas carry heavy flows, and you will share the road with buses, motorbikes, bicycles, horse carts and pedestrians. If you rent a car, plan routes in daylight and park where your accommodation advises.
Asking the way
You will get directions in landmarks, not street names. Our page on how Managua addresses work explains the system so that a taxi driver's directions make sense.