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San Jose, CA, USA to Managua from $260: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Jose, United States of America
to
Managua, Nicaragua

How to Get from San Jose to Managua: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$260 - PlaneBest price
4542 kmDistance
10h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose to Managua with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
12h  15m
Estimated price
$366-1134
Recommended
Company
Caltrain, Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
10h  47m
Estimated price
$260-599
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 4542 km
Duration: 10h 29m

See more options

Company
BART, Various
BART
Plane
Average Duration
10h  29m
Estimated price
$368-695
Company
Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
79h  15m
Estimated price
$392-3660
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
15h  4m
Estimated price
$393-1221
Company
Tufesa Mexico
Bus
Average Duration
99h  7m
Estimated price
$3661-3662
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
58h  16m
Estimated price
$3663-3664
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Traveling From San Jose to Managua

The journey from San Jose to Managua offers a striking contrast between Costa Rica's vibrant urban culture and Nicaragua's rich history reflected in its colonial architecture and natural beauty.

Best Neighborhoods in Managua

Managua features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Zona Rosa
• Bustling nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
• Known for upscale shopping and local art galleries.
Barrio San Juan
• Offers authentic street food and local markets.
• Rich in cultural history with vibrant street art.
Los Robles
• A serene area with beautiful parks and green spaces.
• Popular for trendy cafes and boutique hotels.

Best Times To Visit Managua's Attractions

Planning your visit around these times can enhance your experience in Managua.

Lake Xolotlan
Early morning or late afternoon offers stunning views and fewer visitors.
National Palace of Culture
Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful exploration.
Old Cathedral of Managua
Visit during the week for a quiet atmosphere; weekends can be busy.

Managua Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Managua enjoys a tropical climate, with a dry season from November to April that is ideal for travel, while the rainy season from May to October can enhance the city's lush landscapes but may lead to occasional disruptions in plans.

Dining in Managua: A Culinary Contrast

Try the traditional 'gallo pinto' at El Garabato, where this simple yet flavorful dish combines rice and beans with a Nicaraguan twist, offering an earthy taste distinct from the more refined flavors found in San Jose's dining scene. The vibrant atmosphere, often filled with local music and art, further enhances your experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in Managua's rich culture.

San Jose - Managua operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Jose and Managua, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Managua Airport (MGA)

Average Duration
12h 21m
Estimated price
$11347-11348

Plane from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Managua Airport (MGA)

Average Duration
12h 21m
Estimated price
$11347-11348
Website
avianca.com

Plane from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Managua Airport (MGA)

Average Duration
9h 55m
Estimated price
$11342-3664
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$2604-2605

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to San Francisco Airport (SFO)

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Sacramento

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$2607-2609
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Jose Downtown to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$5996-26050

Bus from Los Angeles to Guatemala City

Average Duration
48h 17m
Estimated price
$3666-11349
Contact phone
+504 9919-5375
Website
cristobalcolon.com.gt

Bus from Guatemala Zona 1 to Managua

Average Duration
13h
Estimated price
$26040-5997
Contact phone
+52 644 410 2444
Website
tufesa.com.mx

Bus from San Jose to Hermosillo

Average Duration
23h 55m
Estimated price
$26050-59930
Contact phone
+1 213 368 1172
Website
busesusatours.com

Bus from Los Angeles to Guatemala City

Average Duration
49h 17m
Estimated price
$3666-11349

San Jose to Managua: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Jose and Managua offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from San Jose to Managua spanning a distance of 3560 miles. With proper planning, the journey takes around 2 days and 16 hours of exciting driving through diverse landscapes. 💰 The cost of this adventure ranges from $700 to $1100, ensuring flexibility based on your budget and preferences. Take into account variables such as gas, tolls, accommodation, and dining options, making sure to allocate funds wisely for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Average price
$700 - $1100
🌎 Flying from San Jose to Managua involves a layover as there are no direct flights available. The quickest option takes about 12 hours and 21 minutes with one stopover. 🛫 Popular airlines such as Delta, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Avianca offer connecting flights from San Jose Airport to Managua Airport. The total travel time from San Jose to Managua by plane is approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Managua and San Jose can range from $366 to $1134, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. Make sure to plan your trip and compare fares to get the best deal for your journey between these two cities.
Departure Point
San Jose Airport
Arrival Point
Managua Airport. The quickest flight takes 12h 21m and has one stopover
🚌 Unfortunately, there is no direct bus from San Jose to Managua. 🌎 The journey involves multiple transfers, taking approximately 3 days and 15 hours to reach your destination. 🕒 🌴 The bus services departing from San Jose Downtown are operated by Flixbus USA, with the final stop in Managua. 🚌 You will pass through locations such as Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, Los Angeles, and Guatemala Zona 1 during the trip. 🌎 💰 Prices for the bus between Managua and San Jose can range from $392 to $575. 🚌 It's a long but potentially scenic route for those looking to experience a different mode of travel between these two cities. 🌴
Departure Point
San Jose Downtown station
Arrival Point
Managua station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Jose to Managua.

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The distance between San Jose and Managua is 2822 miles. The quickest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, with a typical travel time of 12 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, taking a combination of train to Sacramento and then flying can take around 15 hours and 4 minutes. Road travel between the two cities is longer, with a road distance of 3560 miles, but specific travel times by car or bus are not provided.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Jose to Managua is by taking a bus via Hermosillo, which can cost between $290 and $460 and takes approximately 4 days and 7 hours. However, for a more time-efficient option, the fastest way to reach Managua from San Jose is by taking the BART and then flying, which takes around 10 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $360 and $700. Travelers can choose between these two options based on their priorities of budget and time.
The prices for a bus journey between San Jose and Managua typically range from $392 to $575, depending on the operator and amenities offered. It's advisable to check with different bus companies for the most current pricing and availability. Additionally, factors such as the season, booking in advance, and any promotions could also affect the overall cost of travel between these two destinations.
To travel from San Jose to Managua without using public transportation, you can choose to drive the distance of 3560 miles. This road trip typically takes around 2 days and 16 hours, providing you with the freedom to make stops along the way and enjoy the journey at your own pace. The cost of driving from San Jose to Managua by car can vary between $700 to $1100, depending on factors such as fuel prices and accommodation expenses. This option allows you to have a more personalized and flexible travel experience.
To travel from San Jose to Managua without a car, the most convenient option is to take a bus, which typically takes around 3 days and 15 hours. This journey usually costs between $390 to $600. Buses provide a cost-effective and scenic way to reach your destination, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. Make sure to plan ahead and check the bus schedules and availability before your trip.
There is no direct bus service from San Jose to Managua. However, you can take a series of buses with transfers along the way. The journey typically takes approximately 3 days and 15 hours. The buses are operated by Flixbus USA for the departure from San Jose and Cristóbal Colón Autobuses for the arrival in Managua.
The flight duration from San Jose to Managua with one stopover typically takes around 12 hours and 21 minutes. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The cost of a flight ticket between Managua and San Jose can range anywhere from $366 to $1134, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It's advisable to compare different airline options and book in advance to secure the best deals for your travel itinerary.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Managua with over 86 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $30 per night, catering to different budget preferences. It is recommended to explore different booking platforms or websites to find the perfect hotel that suits your needs and preferences during your stay near Managua.

Trips from San Jose