How to travel to Popoyo, Nicaragua

Getting to Nicaragua: Flying to Managua or Costa Rica

The closest airport to Popoyo is Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua, Nicaragua.

Alternatively, many travelers choose to fly into Costa Rica as flights are often cheaper. From there, you can easily cross the border at Peñas Blancas and continue to Popoyo. 

From Managua Airport (MGA) to Surf & Yoga Retreat

By Bus (Chicken Bus)

If you’re on a budget, local buses (often referred to as “chicken buses”) are an affordable option. The trip costs about $5 but involves multiple transfers. Keep in mind that these buses can be crowded and might not stop if they’re full.

1. From Managua – Roberto Huembes Terminal  take a bus to Rivas.
2. FromRivas take a bus heading toward El Astillero ( at 5:30 AM and 4:50 PM)
3. Get off at Las Salina, then you can hitchhike to Surf & Yoga Retreats Nicaragua (at the entrance of Guasacate)

By Taxi

The easiest way to reach Guasacate from Managua is by taxi. The journey takes around 2 hours and costs approximately $100. Contact us and we’ll happily arrange a reliable taxi for you.

By Rental Car

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility and convenience. Prices range from $50 to $100 per day. While a standard car works fine year-round on the main roads, a 4×4 is highly recommended if you’re traveling during the rainy season.

From Costa Rica: A Popular Alternative

For many travelers, flying into Costa Rica is more affordable. Once you land, you’ll need to cross the border at Peñas Blancas.

Steps to Cross the Border:

1. Take a bus (Tica Bus) or a taxi from San José Airport to the Peñas Blancas border crossing.
2. At the border:
   • Exit Fee: $10 (payable at a green hut or online via Banco BCR).
   • Entry Fee: $10 (includes a 90-day tourist visa—check your passport requirements).

From the Border to us:

• By Taxi: Costs around $50.
• By Bus: Catch a bus to Rivas (departures every 20 minutes) and then to Guasacate as explained above.

Special Note: From El Salvador

If you’re coming from El Salvador, companies like Gekko Trails Explorer offer combined boat and shuttle services to Nicaragua. Typical costs are:

• Boat: $60
• Shuttle: $15–$35 (depending on pickup location).

From your arrival point in Nicaragua, you can continue to Surf & Yoga Retreats by taxi or bus. 

Whether you need help with a shuttle from Costa Rica, tips for border crossing, or local taxi arrangements, feel free to reach out to us.