Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Local Transportation
Bus
The only city really big enough to warrant catching local buses is Managua, where pickpockets and
bag slashers may make you think twice. If you can keep your wits (and belongings) about you, though,
there are some handy cross-town routes that could save you some coins on taxi fares.
Rickshaw & Tuk Tuk
In smaller towns there are fewer taxis and more tuk tuks (motorized three wheelers) and
triciclos
(bi-
cycle rickshaws). They're inexpensive - around US$0.50 per person to go anywhere in town - and
kinda fun (although the
triciclo
driver pedaling around Rivas wearing the 'I love my job' t-shirt was
probably overstating the case slightly).
Taxi
Almost all taxis in Nicaragua are
colectivos,
which stop and pick up other clients en route to your des-
tination.
Managua taxis are unmetered and notorious for ripping off tourists. Taxis at major border crossings
may also overcharge, given the chance. Most other city taxis have set in-town fares, usually around
US$0.50 to US$0.70, rising slightly at night. Ask a local how much a fare should cost before getting
into the cab.
Hiring taxis between cities is a comfortable and reasonable option for midrange travelers. Prices
vary widely, but expect to pay US$10 for every 20km.