Distance 533 km (333.1 miles) | |
Price range US$ 112-US$ 454 | |
Ride Duration Range 1h 24m-18h | |
Earliest Departure 02:00 | |
Latest Departure 16:32 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
Fastest bus: 18h
Cheapest bus: US$ 112
When you're ready to say farewell to Guatemala City and discover a new country, head to magical Nicaragua.
You can take a flight or a bus to Managua, which is 458 miles (737 kilometers) from Guatemala City.
Once you arrive in the heart of Nicaragua, you'll see why it's becoming a popular traveler's destination.
Nicaragua's capital, Managua, sits along the shores of Lake Managua below the Tiscapa Volcano. But that's not the only volcano! Managua is surrounded by 19 active volcanoes, two visible from the city.
The city also sits atop eleven seismic faults. Everywhere you look, there is a spectacular view to take in and memorialize.
Managua houses a quarter of the country's population, so you'll find plenty of locals to show you around and give you tips on where to go next. Make sure you practice some basic Spanish!
The vibrant city is full of life, with street art and performers everywhere. You'll spend most of your time in and around Bolivar Avenue, where the city's old cathedral and national museum attract visitors.
While Nicaragua is far safer than it used to be, some areas remain sketchy. To stay safe, practice caution and always travel with others.
While the best of Nicaragua is found outside the city, Managua is still packed with exciting activities to entertain you during your visit.
Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Built in 1991 to replace the Old Cathedral of Managua, which was severely damaged in 1972 during the earthquake, this newer cathedral is a lovely architectural site. Pop inside to check out the beautiful building before exploring the surrounding plaza.
Discover Nicaragua's history. The National Museum is packed with pre-Columbian artifacts, information about the indigenous population's history, and insights into the arrival of Spanish settlers. Spend a few hours wandering its halls to learn about the country.
Walk with the Footprints of Acahualinca. You cannot come to Managua without visiting a set of footprints from over 6,000 years ago. These perfectly preserved footprints show the path of a Stone Age family, and you can walk alongside them to peek into ancient history.
Explore the Tiscapa Lagoon. This vast lagoon results from volcanic activity and is over 10,000 years old.
While it's a beautiful area, the best part is the three-part zipline you can take all the way across. The last of which goes right above the lagoon itself. If you don't fancy the adrenaline-filled activity, you can hike to the top and take in the city landscape.
To reach Managua from Guatemala City, you have two options: a flight or a bus.
The quickest way to travel from Guatemala City to Managua is to take a short, 90-minute flight between the destinations.
You can expect air conditioning and a WC on board. The flight is operated by Copa Airlines, departs from Guatemala City Airport, and arrives at Managua Airport.
Tickets start at a pricey $630 for a one-way journey.
The most affordable way to reach Managua from Guatemala City is to take an air-conditioned bus.
On board, you can expect a WC, reclining seats, food and drinks, and TV. You'll also get a luggage allowance of two 50 lbs (22.5 kg) bags and one piece of hand luggage.
Ticket prices start at $120, and the epic drive across three countries takes around 18 hours.
For the first part of the journey, you'll drive to the Guatemalan border before passing through Honduras and entering Nicaragua.
You may need to wait a couple of hours at the border crossings for all passengers to be checked and fees paid before continuing your drive. Remember to complete a migrant form for Honduras and Nicaragua seven days before departing Guatemala City. Download the forms onto your phone to show at the border or print them off.
It's up to you to sort this documentation out, not the bus driver!
You must also bring a photo ID to cross the border. At the Honduran and Nicaraguan border crossings, passengers pay a total of $19 in entrance fees.
You'll depart from the operator's offices in Guatemala City and arrive at their corresponding offices in Managua.
Arrive at the departure office at least 15 to 30 minutes early to avoid delays.
The best part of taking the bus from Guatemala City to Managua is the opportunity to marvel at three countries in one drive! You'll see the beautiful countryside of Guatemala and pass through the wild jungles of Honduras before arriving in the gorgeous country of Nicaragua.
Taking the bus is the best way to see parts of these three countries. You'll pass through truly local areas and catch glimpses of what average life is like.
Bring plenty of things to keep you entertained, though, because this is an epic journey by bus!
If you hop on a plane, you'll see spectacular aerial views of Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua en route. You won't see everything close up, but the speed of the journey will soften the loss of close-up views.
Visit Managua during the dry season, which lasts from November to May. During these months, temperatures average 77°F-82°F (25°C-28°C), perfect for exploring the city.
If you want to avoid the crowds, consider booking a visit during the wet season, which starts in June and ends in October. Yes, it will rain, but it usually comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of dry hours to explore. Avoid visiting in September and October, though. These months see the highest rainfall.
If you want to see Managua at its liveliest, book a visit during Christmas, New Year, or Easter. The city has a strong Christian influence and comes alive with vibrant religious festivals throughout these holidays.
You only need a few days to see everything in Managua. In Nicaragua, you will want to spend most of your time outside the cities, immersing yourself in the country's verdant nature.
So, book a couple of night's accommodation to tick off the main sites before setting off on some grand adventures into the jungle.
For a quick trip after your long journey to Managua, head to Granada, the region's economic capital. You'll be dazzled by the stunning catholic church and marvel at the beauty of Lake Cocibolca.
To experience beachside life in Nicaragua, go to Playa Popoyo. This small beach town is an idyllic destination for anyone needing some relaxation.
Surfing lovers should check out San Juan del Sur for strong-breaking waves at Maderas Beach. Or, you can relax on the quieter Marsella Beach before hiking up to see the Christ of Mercy statue on a cliff overlooking the bay.
Based on 21 reviews from Bookaway users who traveled from Guatemala City to Managua
Alan M.
Fernando L.
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