Car Rental Nicaragua

Nicaragua is a beautiful and diverse country, with a wide range of landscapes and activities to explore. From the colonial cities of Granada and Leon, to the stunning beaches and volcanoes of the Pacific Coast, car rental is the best way to make the most of your visit. With a car, you can explore the country at your own pace, and discover hidden gems that are off the beaten track.

Car rental also allows you to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer in Nicaragua. Whether you want to go kayaking on the Rio San Juan, or explore the wildlife of the Bosawás Biosphere Reserve, having a car will make it much easier to get around and make the most of your trip. Renting a car is also a great way to save money, as it eliminates the need for expensive taxis and public transport.

Complete Nicaragua Guide

• By Plane: Most international flights arrive at Managua International Airport.
• By Bus: There are buses from Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala.
• By Car: It is possible to drive to Nicaragua from Costa Rica and Honduras.
• By Boat: There are boats from Colombia, Panama, and El Salvador.

1. Granada – Located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, the colonial city of Granada is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nicaragua. It is known for its cobblestone streets, brightly colored colonial buildings, and picturesque churches. Visitors can explore the city’s numerous attractions, including the Catarina Lookout, the Granada Isletas, and the Xalteva Church.
2. León – The city of León is Nicaragua’s second-largest city and is known for its vibrant culture and colonial architecture. It is home to the impressive León Cathedral, as well as the San Juan de Dios Market, where visitors can find a variety of local crafts and souvenirs. The city also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding.
3. San Juan del Sur – Located on the southern Pacific coast of Nicaragua, San Juan del Sur is a popular beach destination. It is known for its beautiful beaches, including Playa Maderas and Playa Marsella. Visitors can also explore the nearby Nacascolo Bay, as well as the nearby islands of Isla de Ometepe and Isla de Zapatera.
4. Managua – Managua is the capital and largest city in Nicaragua. It is home to a number of attractions, including the National Palace of Culture, the National Theater, and the National Museum of Nicaragua. Visitors can also explore the city’s numerous parks and monuments, as well as its bustling markets and restaurants.
5. Estelí – Located in northern Nicaragua, Estelí is a popular destination for adventure seekers. It is home to the Estelí National Park, where visitors can explore its numerous trails and waterfalls. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and local cuisine.

Other cities worth mentioning include Matagalpa, Masaya, Ometepe, and Rivas. Each of these cities offers unique attractions and experiences, making them great places to visit in Nicaragua.

Car rental prices in Nicaragua vary greatly depending on the type of vehicle and the length of the rental period. For example, a small economy car for a week can cost around $200 USD, while a larger SUV for a week can cost around $400 USD. Prices can also vary depending on the company, so it is best to shop around for the best deal.

In addition to the rental cost, there are also additional fees and taxes that will be added to the total cost. For example, most companies will charge an additional fee for insurance, which is usually around $15-20 USD per day. There is also a 13% sales tax that is applied to the total cost.

When renting a car in Nicaragua, it is best to make sure that you read the rental agreement carefully and understand all of the terms and conditions. It is also important to bring a valid driver's license and credit card when renting a car. Most companies will require a deposit to be paid upon pickup, so it is best to have the funds available.

Overall, car rental prices in Nicaragua are generally reasonable and the cost of renting a car can be a great way to explore the country. With a bit of research and planning, it is possible to find a good deal on a car rental in Nicaragua.

• Book in Advance – Book your car rental in Nicaragua as far in advance as possible to get the best price.
• Compare Prices – Compare car rental prices from different companies to get the best deal.
• Look for Deals – Look for special deals and discounts on car rentals in Nicaragua.
• Avoid Airport Rentals – Airport car rentals tend to be more expensive than those located in the city.
• Choose a Smaller Car – Smaller cars tend to be cheaper to rent than larger ones.

By booking in advance, comparing prices, looking for deals, avoiding airport rentals, and choosing a smaller car, you can save money on your car rental in Nicaragua.

• Driving License: An international driver’s license is required to drive in Nicaragua.
• Speed Limits: Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on highways and 80 km/h on secondary roads.
• Parking: It is prohibited to park on sidewalks and double parking is illegal.
• Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the car.
• Drinking and Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.

Driving in Nicaragua can be a great experience if you are familiar with the local laws and regulations. It is important to have an international driver’s license, obey speed limits, park legally and always wear your seatbelt. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol so it is important to be responsible when driving in Nicaragua.