Everything You Need to Know Before Flying Into Managua Airport (MGA)

If you’re coming to stay with us at Amaru, you’re more than likely landing in Managua and taking a taxi North from there. Although traveling to any new airport can feel a little overwhelming, the good news is that Managua’s international airport is small, manageable, and straightforward once you know what to expect. So, as seasoned surf guests of the Managua airport, we decided to make you a guide on how to get through as efficiently and comfortably as possible.

This guide walks you through everything you should know before landing at Managua Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA)—from internet access and customs tips to transportation and money—so you can start your Nicaragua surf trip feeling prepared, relaxed, and stoked on your stay at Amaru. 

Managua Airport at a Glance

  • Airport Code: MGA

  • Location: Managua, Nicaragua

  • Size: Small international airport

  • Amenities: Limited—plan ahead

  • Currency Accepted: USD and Nicaraguan Córdoba

Internet & Cell Service at Managua Airport (Plan Ahead)

There Is No Public Wi-Fi in the Airport

One of the most important things to know before landing here in Nicaragua: there is no publicly available Wi-Fi inside Managua Airport. If you’re expecting to land and immediately message your driver, check directions, scroll on socials while you wait, or open confirmations, you’ll want to plan for that in advance.

How to Stay Connected When You Land

Your best options are:

  • International travel pass through your current phone provider

  • Claro SIM or ESIM card

  • Offline prep: download maps, screenshot ride details, and save accommodation addresses before landing

Customs & Immigration: What to Expect (and How to Get Through Faster)

Expect a Line—Sometimes a Long One

Customs and immigration at Managua Airport can take anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour, depending on how many flights land at the same time. This is normal, and while it may feel slow, it’s generally organized and straightforward.

Tips to Get Through Customs More Efficiently

A few small things can make a big difference:

  • Filling out your customs form on the plane so you’re ready to go

  • Identifying on your customs form that you will be staying at a HOTEL (they specifically look for this word in the foreseen address section)

  • Using the bathroom on the plane before landing rather than before getting to the customs line

  • Getting a seat near the front of the plane so you can offboard quickly, if possible

  • Bringing your own pen—most airlines do not hand them out

  • Having your passport and $10 entry fee easily accessible

Optional VIP Customs Service

There is also an optional service that allows you to wait in a private, comfortable VIP lounge while your immigration process is handled. It typically costs between $30-$40 and includes:

  • A quieter, more comfortable waiting space

  • Food and drinks

  • Sometimes a shorter overall wait time

You’ll still wait, but in a much more comfortable setting—something many travelers appreciate before the drive north towards Amaru. You can find information on booking your spot in the VIP lounge HERE. 

Airlines Flying Into Managua & Baggage Fees

Managua is well connected to the U.S. and Central America, but baggage fees—especially for surfboards—vary widely by airline.

Airlines That Commonly Fly Into Managua (MGA)

Checked Bags & Surfboard Fees

Each airline has its own policy when it comes to:

  • Number of included checked bags

  • Oversized baggage fees

  • Surfboard handling and pricing

  • Mileage member pricing

If you’re traveling with boards and planning to spend time surfing in northern Nicaragua—particularly around Amaru—checking these policies ahead of time can help you pick the best airline and save both money and hassle.

The $10 Entry Fee at Customs (Bring Cash)

Upon arrival and before clearing customs, travelers are required to pay a $10 USD entry fee. This fee must be paid in cash, and your bill should be clean—not torn, overly wrinkled, or damaged.

What to Bring

  • $10 USD cash readily available in your bag

  • A clean, newer bill (usually they won’t accept anything torn)

Having this ready helps you move through customs more smoothly and get on the road sooner.

Money Exchange & Using USD in Nicaragua

Currency Exchange at the Airport

There is a currency exchange in the Managua airport, however, it’s important to check the rates against those at your local bank. In many cases, you can get a better exchange rate by doing this at a bank in your area before leaving for the airport. 

Using USD in Nicaragua

If you’re coming from the U.S., you’re in luck:

  • USD is widely accepted throughout Nicaragua

  • Smaller bills are preferred

  • Cash is commonly used outside major cities

This makes travel especially easy if you’re heading directly from Managua to Amaru without needing additional stops. We recommend bringing $5 and $10 bills for your trip to ensure that any local establishments are able to accept them and make enough change. 

Transportation From Managua Airport

Taxis & Private Drivers

When you arrive at the airport, your taxi driver will be waiting right outside of customs holding an Amaru sign. They’ll help you load your boards onto the car if you have them, and are more than happy to stop at a nearby gas station if you’d like to grab a coffee or snack, or use the restroom before your drive north. 

New Speed Limits = Longer Drives (But a Better Experience)

A recently implemented country-wide speed limit of around 50km/h (about 31mph) means that long-distance drives now take a bit more time than they used to. We recommend planning for a 4.5 hour drive from the airport to Amaru. 

While that might sound long on paper, the drive is:

  • Scenic and peaceful

  • Air-conditioned

  • Led by friendly, experienced drivers

  • A great way to unwind after travel

For many guests, the drive north is where the trip truly begins.

Late Night Taxis & Overnight Stays

If your flight lands late at night and you’d rather spend the night in a hotel then get picked up in the morning, the Airport X is a fantastic option. For around $40, you’ll receive your nightly stay in an air-conditioned room, transportation to the hotel from the airport, and breakfast as early as 4am. You can explore more about this option HERE

Final Tips Before You Land in Managua

Before you board your flight:

  • Bring a pen and fill out your customs form on the plane

  • Take advantage of the VIP lounge if you’d like a more comfortable experience

  • Choosing the right airline can help you save big on baggage fees

  • Have $10 USD cash ready

  • Download maps and confirmations offline, or make sure your cellular will work once you land

  • Expect a slower pace—and lean into it!

With a little preparation, flying into Managua is simple—and it opens the door to some of the most peaceful corners of the country, including Amaru.

Amaru Nicaragua