From Managua, drive south on the Pan-American Highway CA-1, also known as Carretara Sur (South Highway.) This highway passes through the following cities: El Crucero, Diriamba, Jinotepe, Nandaime and Rivas.  About 15 km south of Rivas is the intersection, La Virgen.  Turn right (west) and drive 18km to San Juan del Sur.

An alternative route from Managua is via Carretara Masaya (Masaya Highway). Take this highway south towards the city of Masaya. Once through Masaya, turn right (west) towards the town of Catarina. Drive through Catarina. The road passes through the towns of San Juan de Oriente, Diriá, Diriomo. After Diriomo, turn right at the intersection towards Nandaime. At Nandiame turn left (south) on the Pan-American Highway CA-1. Drive south towards Rivas and Peñas Blanca. About 15 km south of Rivas is the intersection, La Virgen.  Turn right (west) and drive 18km to San Juan del Sur.

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