How to Easily Get From Nicaragua to Guatemala

Traveling from Nicaragua to Guatemala is an exciting feat, so figuring out the best way to get from, say, León or Managua to Antigua requires a bit of research.  

This journey is complicated because Guatemala and Nicaragua don’t actually share a border. So you’ll need to go from Nicaragua through Honduras and then into Guatemala. 

Because of this, the easiest way to get from one to the other is by tourist shuttle. Yes, the journey is long and involves three border crossings. Still, it is cheaper than flying.

The tourist shuttle is a safe and reliable option because companies are familiar with border crossing regulations and how to navigate the roads for the quickest trip. As an added bonus, you’ll ride in a reasonably comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, which is much better than local transportation.

If you are based in the capitals, you have options too! A few different shuttles run directly from Guatemala City to Managua and Managua to Guatemala City. So, your journey will be very similar and cross the same border posts.

Transporte del Sol is one such operator that offers comfortable and reliable service between Nicaragua and Guatemala.

Do note that tourist shuttles typically arrive later in the evening, so getting a bus to other locations in Nicaragua right away might be challenging. 

How to Travel from Nicaragua to Guatemala: Step-by-Step 

Tourist shuttles will typically pick you up directly from your accommodation. So despite the early start, you won’t have to travel around the city before the journey begins. However, you may be picked up first and then stop at other hostels or hotels before you set off for Guatemala.

Once everyone is onboard and luggage has been stored, you’ll make your way to the border crossing between Nicaragua and Honduras. Keep your passport and visa documents handy so you can easily present these to immigration officials.

If you hold a passport from the UK, EU, or USA, you must show your entry stamp into the CA-4 region (Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and El Salvador). As an added bonus, your shuttle driver will most likely help you through the immigration process. 

After crossing into Honduras, you’ll have a scenic two-hour drive to the border between Honduras and El Salvador. Once you arrive, you’ll need to present your passport to the immigration officials. This time, though, officials typically board the shuttle, so you don’t even need to get off the bus!

Once you’ve entered El Salvador, the shuttle will drive through Suchitoto, a charming colonial town. This is usually where you’ll have a quick break to use the bathroom and stretch your legs. From there, you’ll continue on to Guatemala, where you’ll finally be able to get out and explore.

As you drive, be sure to check out the stunning scenery of Central America. Beginning with the volcanoes of León, through the lush tropical forests of Honduras and El Salvador, the landscape really will take your breath away. 

What You Need to Travel Between Guatemala and Nicaragua:

Disclaimer: We do our best to provide information that is as up-to-date as possible. Things change in the travel world, so it is always a good idea to check with your embassy to ensure you have the most accurate info before you travel. 

Passport

You need a valid passport for at least six months past your date of entry for Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. You also may need two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Visa

If you are from the USA, EU, or the UK, you will automatically receive a free 90-day visa on arrival. It’s valid for all CA-4 countries: Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. It is important to note that your 90 days cover all four of these countries, so if you plan to travel around Central America, you need to do so within the 90 days or plan a trip to a neighboring country (such as Belize or Costa Rica) to restart the visa. Check with your embassy or a site like Project Visa for the most up-to-date information.  

Departure Tax

This typically applies to you if you leave by land. If you travel by air, the departure tax is included in the price of your plane ticket. 

Guatemala has no official departure tax if you leave by land. However, some people have reported paying a “fee” to customs officials at the border. Unfortunately, a few officials may try to pocket a little bit of money from tourists.

If you are leaving from Nicaragua, there is a departure tax of $10. Be sure to have some cash, especially USD, to pay this fee.

There is no exit fee for Honduras and El Salvador.

Proof of Exit

Be sure to get a stamp in your passport when leaving Nicaragua and Guatemala. This indicates to officials that you have exited the country within the 90-day time limit.  

Proof of Onward Travel

Proof of onward travel is not always required to enter Guatemala or Nicaragua, but it’s always a good idea to have it just in case.

Entry Fee

There is an entry fee of $12 for Nicaragua and $3 to enter Honduras.

El Salvador and Guatemala do not have an entry fee, so you can pass through by simply showing your passport. 

Cash

It’s a good idea to bring cash when crossing through these countries.  

The official currency of Nicaragua is the cordoba, and the official currency of Guatemala is the quetzal, but USD is accepted at the border. In fact, it’s the preferred currency at the borders.

If you don’t have the correct currency, there are often money changers at the borders. Check for any hidden fees before agreeing to swap your money. Also, the operating hours vary depending on the specific border crossing and time of day.

Some expenses you might need cash for include:

• Border crossing fees: As mentioned, you may need to pay fees when crossing the border, especially if you’re crossing by land. 

• Transportation: If you’re taking a bus or taxi to get to your next destination, you’ll need to pay in cash.

• Food and other expenses: While larger restaurants and hotels may accept credit or debit, smaller shops and street vendors often only accept cash.

Pro tip: Exchange rates at the border are actually pretty reasonable. Don’t worry if you haven’t exchanged money in a major city—you won’t be royally ripped off here. 

Safety Tips

Crossing all the borders between Nicaragua and Guatemala is generally safe, especially if you are cautious and pay attention to your surroundings. 

You can trust local officials in uniform, for the most part. And you should always approach them with respect and follow their instructions. But there have been instances where they try to scam a few dollars off of unsuspecting travelers. Usually, this happens when they ask for a receipt to prove you’ve paid your entry fee, so keep any paperwork given to you at the border.

If you aren’t sure, ask your bus driver. They have done this crossing plenty of times and are reliable. However, use your best judgment and trust your gut.

Be cautious of strangers who offer help. They are usually just after a bit of cash and are looking for a tip, but keeping your guard up is always a good idea.

Covid-19 Restrictions

As of May 2023, you must present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test from within the past 72 hours to enter Nicaragua and Guatemala. 

Map of the Nicaragua Guatemala Crossing Routes

Most tourist shuttles will transfer you from the northwest corner of Nicaragua, drive through southern Honduras, cut across El Salvador, and finally help you cross into Guatemala, near Antigua.

Final Thoughts on Traveling from Nicaragua to Guatemala 

Overall, taking the tourist shuttle from León, Nicaragua, to Antigua, Guatemala, is the most convenient and safest way to get around Central America. 

Even though you’ll be crossing three separate borders, booking a tourist shuttle will help you confidently navigate through each country. And the journey is definitely worth it! Nicaragua and Guatemala are two fantastic countries that cannot be missed.

And when you need to leave the CA-4 region, you can easily head from Guatemala into Belize to continue on your journey.

FAQ