Need cash when I land, best place in Nicaragua? Airport or places in the city?
I once exchanged $100 at Managua Airport and realized later I’d lost out badly. Since then, I always use ATMs. Banpro and Lafise machines are everywhere, even in smaller cities. I withdrew NIO 1500 at the airport and it covered my taxi to Granada and meals for two days. Locals were fine with USD in hotels, but the bus to León only took córdobas. My advice: skip the counters, bring some small USD bills, and rely mainly on ATMs.
Airport exchange desks in Nicaragua aren’t the best value. ATMs from Banco Lafise, Banpro, and BAC Credomatic are the safer bet, giving córdobas at the bank rate. USD is widely accepted, but change is often given in NIO at poor rates. It’s smart to withdraw directly in córdobas to avoid losing out. Exchange offices in city centers can help if you’re carrying USD or EUR, but ATMs remain the most convenient option. Withdraw NIO 2000-3000 on arrival to cover basics.
When I landed in Managua, I used a Banpro ATM in arrivals and it worked smoothly with my Visa card. The airport counters were quoting terrible rates for USD, so I skipped them. In Granada and León, I noticed exchange houses giving fairer deals if you bring cash. Still, ATMs were easier. I withdrew around 3000 NIO, which lasted several days for taxis, meals, and tours. Most mid-range hotels and restaurants accept USD, but buses and smaller eateries only want córdobas.
At Managua Airport you’ll see exchange counters, but they’re overpriced. I always just withdraw córdobas from ATMs. Banco Lafise, Banpro, and BAC Credomatic are the most reliable banks. Grab NIO 1000-2000 at the airport for taxis, then use city ATMs as needed. Many tourist places accept USD, but you’ll get better value in córdobas for local buses, street food, and markets. Bring small USD bills too, since change can be tricky. For budget travellers, ATMs beat exchange counters every time.