Getting to Nicaragua
Flying to Nicaragua
To get to Gigante you must first fly into Managua. The Managua Airport is served by six airlines: Copa Airlines, Grupo Taca, Aero Mexico, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Continental Airlines. Flight frequency for US based airlines varies according to the season. More flights are available during the summer surf season (mid May thru mid September). US based airlines also offer direct flights from the US which is a major advantage. Check airfares early and try to book early to get the best price and time for you.
Customs
A current passport from your residence country is required to enter Nicaragua. There is a $5 (USD) per person tourist fee required at the passport control desk. Once you get through passport control you walk directly into the baggage claim area to collect your bags. There is a random check of bags at the immigration exit, so keep this in mind as you pack.
The airport does offer a VIP service for $36 per person plus the $5 tourist fee. A VIP service representative will meet you as you exit the plane. They will have your name on a placard. They will collect your passport, entry documents and the $5 tourist fee and take you to a lounge while you wait for your baggage to clear. The VIP representative will return with your passport and tourist document and guide you to the arrivals area outside of the building where your luggage will be waiting. It’s a good idea to tip these baggage handlers about $1-2 per handler. The VIP service is comfortable way to enter the country if you are willing to pay for it.
Hotels in Managua
If you arrive after about 2:00 PM, it is recommended that you stay at one of the airport hotels before beginning your journey to Gigante. There are two hotels close by the airport that are convienient:
174 rooms (single – double – triple); air conditioning, telephone, cable, T.V., hair dryer, phone, hot water, fax service, free business center, 2 swimming pools, service Restaurant/Bar, secure parking. Breakfast, Transportation, Airport-Hotel-Airport (according to the schedule of the established flights), Free Internet in the Business Center, Wireless Internet (Lobby, Restaurant, Salons, Walkways), Pools, Gym. 011- 505 255 9900
Co-located with one of the Pharaohs Casinos. Located just 3 minutes from Managua Intl. Airport by complimentary shuttle, and 8 miles from downtown. 116 Guestrooms & Suites feature Hi-speed Internet Access, Cable TV, Air Conditioning, and Safety Deposit Boxes. Complete Fitness Center with Sauna, Steam Bath, Massage Services, Casino, Outdoor Pool, Tennis courts, 2 Restaurants and a Bar. Laundry service, taxi, cellular phone rental, car rental desk are among several services and amenities provided. 011-505-255-5888
Traveling from the Airport to Gigante
Once you arrive in Managua there are at least two options for making the two hour land journey from the Airport to Gigante:
Private transportation to and from the airport can be arranged. Reservations must be made at least three weeks in advance of your arrival. Prices vary for this service dependent on fuel costs and the season. If you are interested in traveling from the airport to Gigante by means of private transportation, then please request this service during your “Booking Conversation” ( See Property Rental Page).
Renting a vehicle and driving to Gigante provides visitors with the most flexibility during their visit. Detailed driving instructions are included in the “Driving in Nicaragua” page. Vehicle rental allows visitors to explore the many beautiful sites around Gigante and take day excursions to some of the attractions within the area.
Other options are traveling via taxi or bus. Both of these options are not recommended unless you speak fluent Spanish and you are an experienced “third world” traveler.
