How to get to Rivas

When planning a journey through picturesque Nicaragua, many tourists wonder how to get to Rivas — an important transport hub and historic city located on the isthmus between Lake Nicaragua and the Pacific Ocean. This location serves as the ideal starting point for exploring famous beaches and Ometepe Island, and you can travel to Rivas in various ways, using local airlines, buses, or a rented car. Regardless of your budget and preferences, the road to this colourful corner of the country will be the start of a fascinating adventure.

In the immediate vicinity of the city lies the Costa Esmeralda Airport (ECI). This small but modern aviation hub serves Rivas and the surrounding resort areas. Typically, small aircraft and charter flights arrive here, for example, from neighbouring Costa Rica or the capital, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to save time and avoid long overland journeys.

However, the main hub for international travellers remains the Augusto C. Sandino Airport in the city of Managua. It is located approximately two hours away by road and receives scheduled flights from major airlines around the world. This is the most popular arrival option in Nicaragua, from where it is easy to organise a transfer to your final destination.

Alternatively, some tourists choose to fly into the city of Liberia in Costa Rica. The local airport is located relatively close to the border, which can be convenient for combined trips across Central America, although this route will require additional time for border control procedures.

It is not possible to travel to Rivas by rail, as the city lacks a railway station. Currently, this mode of transport is practically unused for passenger transport in this region of Nicaragua, so train travel enthusiasts will need to consider other options for movement.

Even if considering a route through neighbouring major cities, such as Managua or Liberia, finding a suitable train will not be possible due to the nature of the local infrastructure. The absence of rail connections is fully compensated by scenic roads, along which comfortable buses and shuttles operate.

The most popular route to Rivas leads from Managua: comfortable express coaches and local buses cover the 110-kilometre journey in approximately two and a half hours. The road runs along the high-quality Pan-American Highway, allowing tourists to enjoy views of volcanoes and tropical greenery without unnecessary transfers.

Travellers arriving from neighbouring Costa Rica often choose services from the city of Liberia, which is located just 80 kilometres to the south. Including border crossing, the trip usually takes about three hours, making it an excellent option for a combined tour. There are also routes from remote Nosara connecting the Pacific coast with the isthmus, although such a journey will require significantly more time.

Travelling by car from the capital is the simplest and fastest way to reach your destination: the drive from Managua along the excellent Pan-American Highway will take about one and a half to two hours. The distance is approximately 110 kilometres, and the cost of a private transfer or taxi usually varies from 60 to 90 US dollars, ensuring maximum comfort and the opportunity to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.

For travellers heading from the direction of Costa Rica, a convenient starting point would be Liberia, located approximately 120 kilometres away. The journey will take between 3 to 4 hours, as one should allocate extra time for crossing the border at Peñas Blancas. A longer, yet incredibly beautiful route from the surfing hub of Nosara, spanning about 230 kilometres, will require 5–6 hours of driving, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes from the Pacific coast to the isthmus.

A trip to Rivas promises to be eventful, as this city serves as a vital transport hub and gateway to Pacific beaches and Ometepe Island. To ensure your journey is as comfortable and seamless as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations that will be valuable for every tourist.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The region has a hot tropical climate, so bring light clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen). Be sure to pack headwear, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for walking. If your trip falls during the rainy season (May to November), a light raincoat or umbrella will be indispensable.
2. Transport. Within the city itself, it is convenient to get around on bicycle rickshaws ("pepitos") or taxis. This is an inexpensive way to reach your destination, but it is best to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, before boarding. For trips to neighbouring villages, you can use the colourful local buses.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Córdoba, however, US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Change is often given in local currency, which is convenient for small expenses. Cards are accepted in major hotels and supermarkets, but you will need cash for markets, small cafes, and transport.
4. Health and Safety. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. Since Rivas is in a tropical zone, be sure to use mosquito repellent. The city is generally safe, but observe standard precautions: do not wear expensive jewellery in plain sight and keep an eye on your belongings at stations.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Spanish. In tourist zones, staff may speak English, but in the city itself, this is rare. Download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases — locals greatly appreciate politeness and attempts to speak their native language.
6. Local Etiquette. Nicaraguans are a welcoming and friendly people. It is customary to greet others ("Hola" or "Buenas") when entering a shop or getting into a taxi. Be patient: the pace of life here is more measured, and service may be unhurried.
7. What to Avoid. It is not recommended to walk alone in remote and poorly lit areas of the city after dark. Also, try not to photograph local residents without their prior permission to avoid causing offence.
8. Transit to Ometepe. Since many travel through Rivas to the port of San Jorge for the ferry to Ometepe Island, take the ferry schedule into account. Arrive at the port (which is a 10-minute drive from the city centre) in advance, especially on weekends, to ensure you have time to purchase tickets.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid unnecessary hassle and focus on exploring the culture and atmosphere of the region. May your acquaintance with hospitable Nicaragua leave only the most vivid and positive impressions!