1

I really dont see a need to rent a car in Nicaragua, unless you are exploring the northern areas like Estelli, or driving the coastal roads to get to the surf breaks on the Pacific side north and south of SJDS.

Otherwise, driving a rental in Nica as a foreigner is not as easy or hassle free as other places, the roads are not marked well, and the police shakedown tourist for the smallest infractions, especially around Rivas/SJDS. Taxi hire is cheap and easy, as it the public busses, paxeos and shuttles.

The ferry in San Jorge for cars varies in size, you need to get there at least an hour early, a few trucks and the ferry is at capacity, it holds maybe 8 cars..last one depart at 330pm.

You could have your lodging in Granada call ahead and try to arrange a reservation, I didnt know this was even possible. But we just had out hotel arrange a taxi to take us to the ferry, then had the lodge in Santo Domingo pick us up at the ferry. We rented bikes on Ometepe.

http://www.ometepenicaragua.com/ferryboat.php

2

when I was on Ometepe 4 years ago there were some VERY rough roads - I think you would want a vehicle with plenty of ground clearance

Edited by: wulfruny

3

Most the roads are paved on Ometepe now. The backside of Maderas is the only area that has some insanely rough parts.

4

Thanks for the comments! I've never rented a car while travelling, but have often wished I could. So many countries have very decent bus systems, but you never get the same liberty as when you have a car. That way we won't lose time in transit and will be able to go where we want, when we want (and yes, my husband does want to surf).

I've heard the roads were a bit rough so we're thinking of getting a small truck, which would at least have a high clearance like you suggest. We're still debating, but it is certainly what we would like to do!!

5

Make sure your insurance covers car ferry transport, many do not!

6

Ohhhh!!! Good point! Thanks for that one, I had totally not thought of that!

7

I took a rental pick up truck there on the ferry several years ago. I rented at the Managua airport as it was cheaper and drove to the ferry on my way to Granada. I made a reservation for the truck and returned when I was told to be there. Not real hard. I was glad to have the truck. I think the rental companies may frown on taking the vehicles over on the ferry. Hard to say. Get the insurance. No insurance company in the states will cover you for a rental vehicle in a foreign country. I have asked a lot of insurance folks and they all say no. Your credit card company may give some coverage but it is limited and may restrict 4 wheel drive vehicles. Just a heads up.

8

Hello Mila_P,

My husband travels a lot to Nicaragua and he feels better if he rents a car with a driver. A native knows the roads, speaks the "language" (not necessarily Spanish). He has someone he has been using for a long time. The driver owns a Land Cruiser, 2000, room for 8 people, fully air conditioned. If you are interested, I can provide you with his contact information. Good luck!