• -
  • 2 Adults 0 Children

Secondary Navigation

(310) 299-7550

Getting Here

Make the most of your Rancho Santana escape by planning ahead and staying informed.

How to get to Rancho Santana Nicaragua?

Rancho Santana sits on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast and is accessible by land or air. View our map for routes and travel details.

Airports

Rancho Santana is located within driving distance of two international airports that service most major airlines. There is also a small regional airport 15 minutes from the property that can be accessed commercially from Liberia, Costa Rica, or by private charter.

Managua International Airport (MGA) is the most direct option for international travelers, while Liberia Airport (LIR) in Costa Rica is ideal for those combining regional travel or arriving from select U.S. hubs.

– Managua (MGA) is serviced by airlines including American, AirMexico, Avianca, Copa, Conviasa, and United: Drive time to Rancho Santana—2-2.5 hours

Below is the timetable of direct flights into Managua at present:

American Airlines

MIAMI – MANAGUA

  • 2x Daily

Avianca

MIAMI – MANAGUA

  • 7x Weekly Low Season
  • 14x Weekly High Season

FORT LAUDERDALE – MANAGUA

  • 1x Daily

SAN SALVADOR – MANAGUA

  • 3x Daily

SAN JOSÉ – MANAGUA

  • 4x Weekly

United Airlines

HOUSTON – MANAGUA

  • 2x Daily

Copa Airlines

PANAMA – MANAGUA

  • 2x Daily

SAN JOSÉ – MANAGUA

  • 2x Weekly

GUATEMALA – MANAGUA

  • 3x Weekly

Aeroméxico

MEXICO – MANAGUA

  • 1x Daily

Conviasa

HAVANA – MANAGUA

  • 1x Daily

– Liberia (LIR), located in nearby Costa Rica, is serviced by AirCanada, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United: Drive Time to Rancho Santana—3+ hours

Rancho Santana can arrange group or private ground transportation for guests arriving or departing from any of the above airports.

Contact us

Travel Requirements

  • Tourist Visa

If you are not a Nicaraguan citizen, you will need to purchase a tourist visa to enter the country. If entering via the land border from Costa Rica, the tourist visa costs $14 and is available for purchase upon arrival. You will also need to pay a $1 fee to the local Cardenas municipality. If arriving to the International Airport in Managua, the tourist visa costs $10 and can also be paid upon arrival.

We highly recommend having exact change to ensure an efficient border and immigration experience.

  • Vaccines:

Vaccines are only required if you are traveling from certain countries in Central America, South America, or Africa, (as listed by the WHO) with proof of yellow fever vaccination required at least 10 days before arrival if applicable. 

  • Get Tested

Travelers do not require COVID vaccination cards or a PCR test.

  • Restricted Items
To ensure a smooth entry, please avoid bringing restricted items such as drones, binoculars, vapes or electronic cigarettes, seeds, plants, weapons, ammunition, or more than three electronic devices per person, as these may result in delays, confiscation, or fines at customs. 

    Departing

    As of 2025, Nicaragua does not require a negative COVID-19 test to depart the country. However, travelers must follow the entry requirements of their destination, which may include providing a negative test result. If your destination requires a PCR test, it can be scheduled through the Ministry of Health (MINSA) in Managua. At-home antigen tests are not available locally and must be brought with you if accepted by your destination. Our team is available to help with testing coordination and travel arrangements before your departure.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can Rancho Santana Arrange Transportation from the Costa Rica Border?

    Yes, we can coordinate private transfers from the Peñas Blancas border crossing for guests arriving through Liberia.

    Contact us

    Is It Safe to Drive from the Airport?

    Yes, daytime travel from both Managua and Liberia is safe. We recommend using our trusted drivers for the most reliable experience.

    What If I Arrive After Dark?

    Evening arrivals are common. Pre-arranged transportation is strongly recommended, as rural roads may be poorly lit and GPS can be unreliable.

    Where Can I Learn More About the Area Around Rancho Santana?

    Explore Useful Tips before you travel or visit Our Destination Guide to get familiar with the surrounding region, local activities, and travel prep essentials.