Reviewed Oct 29, 2026
There is no direct bus between Granada and León. You take two minibuses via UCA in Managua, about 3 hours in total, or a direct tourist shuttle.
Minibus from Shell Palmira, 1 hour, C$45–50. It arrives at the UCA terminal.
At the same terminal, find the León minibus: 1 h 30, C$70–80. They leave when full, until 8:00 PM.
Agencies and hostels sell direct Granada–León shuttles for US$12–20 per person, about 3 hours, with hotel pick-up. Handy with big luggage.
Approximate cost
C$115–130 for the two minibuses (US$3.50). Shuttle US$12–20.
Send it to whoever is travelling with you.
Managua → Granada: UCA minibus or Huembes bus
Granada is one hour from Managua. The UCA minibus is the fastest and most comfortable way; the Huembes bus is cheaper and stops in Masaya.
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How to get to Laguna de Apoyo
No bus goes down to the lake shore. Any bus between Granada and Masaya or Managua drops you at the entrance, and from there you go down by taxi, mototaxi or on foot.
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Managua → León and León → Las Peñitas
León is 1 h 30 by minibus from UCA. The beaches of Poneloya and Las Peñitas are 30 minutes further on a bus that leaves from the Subtiava market.
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