Cheap flights from San Francisco (SJC) to Managua (MGA)

Managua, Nicaragua's capital city, is not your typical vacation destination. Whether you're looking for the path less traveled or you find yourself passing through on business, Managua is a uniquely unspoiled gem for you to explore.

History buffs can start their travels at the Museum of Acahualinca, which houses 6,000-year-old human footprints left in ancient volcanic mud. The crumbling colonial architecture of the Plaza de la Revolución is brimming with the national history of Nicaragua's protests and celebrations.

For thrill-seekers, the Tiscapa Lagoon Natural Reserve offers zip lining, and the Cerro Negro Volcano Sandboarding Tour gives you a custom sandboard, allowing you to cruise down the Telica and San Cristobal volcanoes.

Key Facts

A series of natural disasters decimated the country's economy in the 1980s, but Managua has begun to rebuild its downtown scene. You’ll find plenty of small shops, gardens and eateries like Cocina de Dona Haydee, which offers refreshing local delicacies. As the local bus system can be complicated, renting a car is recommended. A car allows you the flexibility to explore the unspoiled countryside at your leisure.

Hints and Tips

Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA), the country's main international airport, offers nonstop flights to a dozen cities. Flight time between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Augusto Cesar is about six hours if you have no layovers.