Things to do & places to visit in Managua Department, Nicaragua

Managua Department #5 destination in Nicaragua 2023. The average rating score is 4.20 based on 2.702 traveler reviews, of 41 attractions. Timezone: America/Managua, current date and time: Saturday, May 11, 2024, 9:11.

Top things to do (33)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Mr Ow Nica Travel (48 reviews)
- Mr Robert Ow is one of my favorite parts of visiting Nicaragua!
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Taxis & Shuttles

Mr. Ow Nica Travel. Is a family tourist transportation company in Nicaragua. We offer an airport shuttle from Managua and Costa Rica airports, private transportations, and tours. See more..
5.0 ViShanti (8 reviews)
- Amezing experience
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Spas

We are a complete welness center and Spa. Our goal is to give the most relaxing and healing experience posible with top quality services, just as you deserve. We are internationally certified for traditional tai massage, we also do relaxing massage, complete facial cleanse with natural products, Cupping with heat, Detox pedicure and manicure, acupuncture, quiropractic and more. English spoken by the owner :) See more..
5.0 Montibelli Private National Reserve (7 reviews)
- Wonderful birding
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Montibelli is a great birding spot in the dry tropical forest. Fairly easy roads and trails meander around shade grown coffee fields, edged by forest, offering good visibility of multiple habitats. Eduardo is a talented guide with a keen eye. The staff are friendly. The accommodations are rustic, but comfortable. The coffee is great. The food is good, and we ate everything offered at our meals (without any issues). Some highlights: Northern Potoo, Ferr. Pygmy Owl, Turq. br. Motmot, Collared Aracari, several Trogons, and a variety of Hummingbirds, Flycatchers, and Warblers. 70+ species over a few relaxed paced days. Take in the Chocoyero Reserve while you're here. It's just down the road (thought it is a bumpy and slow road...). See more..
5.0 Tribu Urbana Nicaragua (2 reviews)
- the best tours
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM City Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Surfing & Windsurfing • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Archaeology Tours

tribu urbana nicaragua thank you richard for the great tours you gave us my family loved it and my kids didnt want leave and the service was perfect thank you for everything we will bw back soon i promise. See more..
5.0 ATV and Surf Adventure (2 reviews)
- ATV and Surf Adventure
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

If you're in search of an unparalleled Nicaraguan adventure, the ATV trips are a must to take when visiting the west coast of Nicaragua! You won't find a more fun filled adventure than with this group of entrepreneurs! See more..
5.0 ATV and Surf Adventure (2 reviews)
- ATV SURF AND ADVENTURE
4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

This tour was so much fun and so beautiful! First, we met with a group at the Barcelo hotel. After getting situated, we were given ATVs and we started the tour! We went through fields of sugar cane and local towns to get to our destination. Once we arrived, we went on a hike down to a hidden treasure waterfall. We stayed for a few hours, enjoying the water and company. We had brought snacks which we had by the water and had an amazing time there before heading back. The waterfall was gorgeous and the ATV ride is one I️ won’t forget. I️ would definitely recommend doing this! See more..
5.0 Mezquita De Managua (2 reviews)
- Mosque in Managua
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites

This might be the only Mosque in Managua, or perhaps, the only one in Nicaragua. Located south from the historical district of Managua. This medium size Mosque is eqquipped with playground and parking lot. See more..
5.0 Montelimar Cave (1 review)
- Masachapa / Montelimar Cave Petroglyphs
Spent < 1 hour Caverns & Caves

On the road from Masachapa to Managua, just outside of the town of Masachapa, you'll find this excellent example of local pre Colombian Petroglyphs. They are in a very small cave, if you can call it a cave, just off the road. Amazingly there is no sign post or information on the site around. But locals will tell you where to go. The petroglyphs are on the ceiling of the cave and are very well preserved, but for how long who knows. There is no protection of the site, no controls on access etc. There are a number of different Petroglyphs on the ceiling. Snake, turtle and armadillos plus numerous others some still with red and blue pigment. We also so some small bats. This is well worth a visit if you are in the area. See more..
5.0 Teatro Justo Rufino Garay (1 review)
Spent 1-2 hours Theaters

The main independent theater and group in Managua, with 30 years experience. Plays every weekend. See more..
4.5 Puerto Salvador Allende (1.003 reviews)
- We saw a crocodile!
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

This waterfront area is a beautiful sprace with a lot of colourful decorations and pretty straw covered cabanas to sit under. This is a nice place to have a stroll and there are a few food kiosks with different international cuisines where you can buy something to eat. When we were there we were lucky enough to spot the resident crocodile swimming in the water nearby. This area used to be a dangerous area to visit, but it has been cleaned up in recent years and we felt very safe walking around here during the day. There’s plenty of parking and we paid 60 cordobas for parking. See more..
4.5 Teatro Nacional Ruben Dario (68 reviews)
- Eschuche de la Poeta Nacional
Theaters

It was our delight to find a reading of Dario's poetry one evening at the National Theatre Building which bears his name. The exterior of the building is not overly exciting but the decoration on the inside are worth the price of admission alone. The theatre changes it's performances often and it is noted for the variety of production. Unfortunately, the Teatro is closed if there is no perfomance though if there is something on, make a beeline for it! The theater is divided into 2 areas. One with a large stage and high capacity seating for larger shows and the Crystal Room with 2 magnificent crystal chandeliers for smaller shows and art exhibits. See more..
4.5 Viva Spanish School (63 reviews)
- Viva Spanish School Managua nicaragua
Saturday: Lessons & Workshops

Viva Spanish School is Nicaragua's leading Spanish language school. Our programs focus on teaching Spanish to non-Spanish speakers. Our students include Embassy employees and their families, NGOs and mission groups, medical teams, university students and tourists. We offer cost effective, one-on-one classes with a flexible curriculum designed to meet the individual goals of our students. See more..
4.5 Chocoyero-El Brujo Natural Reserve (36 reviews)
- Worthwhile birding stop
Nature & Wildlife Areas

If you are near by, stop at the reserve for a few hours. We had multiple guides, Allen and two trainees, as well as Eduardo, from Montibelli. A lot of birds in few hours... Get there before dusk or near sunrise to catch the roosting parakeets (we missed them). See more..
4.5 Playa de Pochomil (34 reviews)
- Best Beach in Nicaragua
Beaches

For family play, swimming and having fun this beach is it. The beach runs for miles and miles up and down the coast and at low tide you have close to 200 to 300 feet of beach front. At high tide the beach is only about 10 to 20 feet wide in most places. Along Pochomil beach you will find many hotels/B&B's with restaurants and locally owned opened haciendas food establishments. See more..
4.5 Arboretum Nacional (5 reviews)
- Lots of beautiful amazing trees
Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

It was so relaxing and cool to see all the critters skittering around the ground. It was also a really good break between our hotel and the waterfront area of Managua. See more..
4.5 Plaza La Fe (4 reviews)
- New restaurant
Spent 1-2 hours Shopping Malls

Plaza La Fe is an upscale outdoor shopping plaza with exclusive restaurants, shops and bars in Managua, Nicaragua. See more..
4.0 Antigua Catedral de Managua (412 reviews)
- Beautiful Edifice!
Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

A beautiful remnant of the glory of the old Managua. This imposing and magnificent structure complete this magnificent square. A must visit while in Managua See more..
4.0 Loma de Tiscapa (268 reviews)
- Great vantage point!
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

This is a beautiful spot to get spectacular views across all of Managua. There’s a massive statue of the historical figure Sandino at the top of the lookout. It’s $1 entry per person – can pay in USD or cordobas. There’s plenty of parking on site. Keep in mind there’s not too much shade here, so bring plenty of sun protection, especially if you are coming on a hot day. See more..
4.0 Plaza de la Revolucion (249 reviews)
- LOTS to see and do here!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

There are many things to see and do here! Get your cameras/phones ready! The old catedral, museum, government building that used to be the residence of the president and his family, statues, monuments , etc can all be seen here. During my visit there are several Christmas decorations on display. They will be more beautiful in the evening when they are lighted up. Note: It was very hot during our visit around 11:00 am. Have your hats and sunglasses ready to protect yourself from the sun/heat. See more..
4.0 The National Palace of Culture... (178 reviews)
- A nice place to visit in the caótic capital
Saturday: Architectural Buildings • Government Buildings

Nice museum inside a colonial and fashionating building. The visit is Short but well thought. The visit follow a chronological path from prehistory to modern times. Well descripted and nice illustrated. The access ticket it costs 5 usd. Flaw:There are no English descriptions. Anyway reccommended! See more..
4.0 Catedral Metropolitana Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria (73 reviews)
- New Cathedral
Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

The church was dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of Maria with 63 unique domes which represents the number of catholic churches in Nicaragua. The venerated image of the Sangre de Cristo is located in a dedicated circular chapel. See more..
4.0 Centro Comercial Galerías (39 reviews)
- Nice Mall
Shopping Malls

This mall is decently sized. This mall is one of the biggest and brightest of all the malls in Managua. It is very much modeled after a U. S. mall. Here you will find familiar name brands such as Vans, Zara, Converse, CAT, Samsung, Adidas, and so forth. The prices are in both dollars and in cordobas (local currency). They also have BAC Centroamerica (bank) where you are able to change your money to cordobas and vice versa. The prices are comparable to the U. S., with some items at a higher price depending on the product. The store associates and mall security are particularly helpful. Some speak English, it varies by store. They have Siman; which is comparable to Macy's in the U. S. This mall will seem comfortable and familiar to those from the U. S., Europe, and Australia. See more..
4.0 Museo Sitio Huellas de Acahualinca (36 reviews)
- Didn't live up to the hype
Saturday: Speciality Museums

The footprints are just that; mummified footprints. Unless you know the history of the place, you may not understand the significance of this place. I had no guide or pamphlet, so everything I learned, I read from the walls. There's a small museum of artifacts. Unless you're into archaeology, you may not find this site impressive or important. See more..
4.0 Parque Acuático Salvador Allende (20 reviews)
- lovely
Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks

very good place to visit if you are in Managua i took the boat trip around the lake and then i had dinner in a local resturant in the same area. See more..
4.0 Zoologico Nacional (14 reviews)
- Precious little Paradise called "Zoologico Nacional"
Zoos

Let me tell you something, Visiting the National Zoo in Ticuantepe is a MUST!! I loved it, I loved all the lush green around, fruit trees, the flowers, the water falls, the small bridge with bamboo trees all around the zoo. The Tucans, and Colorful parrots, all the tigers, the white tigers, the lions, all the cute monkeys, small mammals, just wakling around the tropical, natural feel and the environment, the sound of all the birds it is just a great experience, it was very comforting to me to see how nice this Zoo is. Just a few miles from Managua, this small Zoo has a lot to offer to visitors. You must visit "The Mariposario", Its one of their main attraction it is absolutely beautiful, to see all the colorful butterflies dancing around the music. Please be advised that it is a hot tropical climate therefor you have to dress appropriately and drink plenty of fluids. I would say GO AND ENJOY IT!! See more..
4.0 El Malecon (9 reviews)
- El malecon( the malecon in managua nicaragua)
Spent 1-2 hours Scenic Drives • Scenic Walking Areas

Enjoy and haves alot of fun visithing the hold catidral for managua just loved my nica so much chect these out. See more..
4.0 Parque Japón Nicaragua (8 reviews)
- Nice Park. Great for kids!
Parks

This park is located in the city of Managua. It is tucked away in the city, but it is really so beautiful! This park is well-guarded and is fairly quiet and well taken care of. The security guards and the landscapers were fairly friendly as we chatted with a few of them. This park is very safe and is a good option for children. There are numerous playground areas for kids in the park. We went on a weekday, and there were only a few locals there. If you are looking for a place to relax and just take a stroll, this is a great place. It is relaxing, safe, and well-kept. See more..
4.0 Casino Nicarao's (4 reviews)
- PARTY Like The Locals! Best Kept Secret Fun Destination in Managua
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 AM Spent < 1 hour Casinos

Casino Nicarao's Offers the best las vegas style entertainment in Managua you can enjoy our video slot machine ,video poker and Live Table Games Black Jack, roulette ,Caribbean stud poker & texas hold'em Casino Nicarao's join our live band every weekend Full bar & grill Including most american liquor ,brand beer & National beer Enjoy our latin american and american menu See more..
3.5 Metrocentro (22 reviews)
- Had delicious lunch at the Food Court here
Spent 1-2 hours Shopping Malls

My driver/guide took me here for lunch. It was quite crowded and I was surprised to see US Fast Foods restaurants here such as Pizza Hut and McDonald’s. We opted for local dishes such as Fried Fish Combo and Fish Soup. After lunch, we looked around, just window shopping, not buying anything. Bathrooms are free and are clean. There is also free ample parking See more..
3.5 Estadio Nacional Dennis Martinez (13 reviews)
- Cool baseball old stadium
Arenas & Stadiums

It is always fun and exciting to witness and enjoy baseball in other countries, specially one that has given few great MLB players. So that part was fun and blended in with locals. Stadium is very old and still got renovated aroud year 2000 now it's in very very bad decayed state. Good news is that a brand new 1st world stadium is being built nearby and this one would probably shut down soon or be used only for young teams. There are some interesting murals painted in the walls of main building depicting famous baseball players and other sportsmen which Nicaragua has given to the world. See more..