Can I use a card to pay for taxis in Nicaragua, or should I carry local cash?
From my time traveling across Nicaragua, I can confidently say taxis won’t take your card. The culture is still very much about cash, and drivers prefer quick payments without fuss. A couple of times in Managua, I tried offering dollars, but drivers were reluctant unless I had exact change. Córdobas are best for taxis, and you should always carry some in small notes. Cards are great for hotels and bigger restaurants, but when it comes to taxis, they’re not part of the picture.
Nicaragua is still a cash economy when it comes to taxis. Every ride I took in Granada and San Juan del Sur was settled in córdobas. Some drivers offered to take US dollars, but they set their own rates, and it wasn’t always favorable. Better to stick to local cash. Don’t expect any official apps or card readers. It’s a very straightforward system, but you need to be prepared with cash because that’s the only way to get around easily.
My experience with Nicaraguan taxis was very straightforward-cash, cash, and more cash. None of the drivers I encountered had card machines, and most didn’t even know what to say when I asked about cards. Fares are low, but make sure you agree on the price before hopping in. US dollars are sometimes accepted in touristy spots, but you’ll get a better deal using córdobas. If you’re arriving at the airport, withdraw local cash right away for smooth rides.
In Nicaragua, taxis are firmly cash-only. I used them in Managua, Granada, and León, and not one driver even hinted at card acceptance. Rides are cheap, but you need córdobas, and ideally small bills. Some drivers will take US dollars, but not always, and they give a poor exchange rate. It’s smart to keep plenty of local cash ready. Unlike some countries, apps don’t dominate here, so taxis are traditional and require cash every single time.