If you’re travelling through Central America as a family, the Peñas Blancas border crossing can seem a little overwhelming the first time. It’s busy, hot and a little chaotic, but with a bit of preparation, it’s actually one of the easier land borders we’ve crossed.
Here are our top tips to make the journey as smooth as possible.
✅ Arrive early (and avoid major holidays)
The border gets much busier as the day goes on, particularly when the international buses arrive. An early start means shorter queues, cooler temperatures and a much more relaxed experience. If you can, avoid travelling around Semana Santa (Easter). It’s one of the busiest times of the year, with many Nicaraguans returning home to spend time with family.
✅ Know the border fees before you arrive
Having the right cash ready makes the process much smoother.
Leaving Costa Rica
Pay the Costa Rica exit tax (around US$8 online or around US$10 at the border). Pay this before joining the immigration queue.
Keep your receipt—you’ll need it when getting your passport stamped.
Entering Nicaragua
You’ll normally pay:
US$10 tourist entry fee and US$1 municipal fee
Leaving Nicaragua
Expect to pay:
US$3 exit fee and US$1 municipal fee
If you’re travelling with a vehicle, additional import and vehicle fees apply.
✅ Carry plenty of water and snacks
There’s limited shade and border crossings rarely happen quickly. Keeping everyone hydrated (and little ones fed!) makes a huge difference.
✅ Keep your documents easy to reach
Have passports, onward travel details and your accommodation address ready. Immigration officers may also ask about your occupation and how long you plan to stay.
✅ Bring small US dollar bills
Many of the border fees are paid in US dollars, and having small notes saves a lot of hassle. Money changers are available, but you won’t usually get the best exchange rate.
✅ Expect to walk… or hire a cart
You’ll walk between the Costa Rican and Nicaraguan immigration buildings. It’s not a long distance, but if you’re travelling with children, surfboards or lots of luggage, porters with carts are available.
Expect to pay around US$10–20 depending on your luggage. Agree the price beforehand and carry small change.
✅ Use official transport
You’ll be approached by plenty of people offering taxis, transport and currency exchange. Some are legitimate, but it’s always safest to use official transport and agree the fare before you set off.
Many shuttle companies from Liberia and Nicaragua’s beach towns will either wait while you cross or arrange for another driver to meet you on the other side.
✅ Be patient
Border crossings are all part of the adventure. Children often cope with them better than adults! Slow down, enjoy the experience and remember that every stamp in the passport is part of the story.
Our biggest tip? Embrace the chaos.
Stepping into Nicaragua for the first time is a moment we’ll never forget. The scenery changes, the atmosphere feels different, and you know a whole new adventure is about to begin.
Have you crossed the Peñas Blancas border? We’d love to hear your tips below! 🌎✈️
