Cajeras automáticas, or ATMs, can be found at both local banks or petrol station in most of Nicaragua’s major tourist destinations, with the exceptions of the Isla de Ometepe and the Corn Islands.
The majority of ATMs will dispense córdobas, although occasionally you will have the option of withdrawing dollars. If you withdraw dollars, though, be aware that cash machines generally have very unfavorable rates. Most machines will also charge you up to $2 per transaction, on top of whatever your bank charges you for withdrawals abroad.
ATMs can attract dodgy characters, so it is best to go with a friend during daylight hours. Avoid, if at all possible, counting your money in public where theives might be watching you.
Communication problems, which are not uncommon in Nicaragua, can stop ATMs from getting confirmation, if you have a problem with a machine, try returning a bit later.
The following towns and cities have ATMs that accept MasterCard (for their exact addresses check the ATM finder at: www.mastercard.com/cac/en/atmlocations/index.html):
Chinandega - 1 ATM
Granada - 1 ATM
León - 1 ATM
Managua - 33 ATMs
Masaya - 1 ATM
Matagalpa - 1 ATM
Rivas - 1 ATM
The following towns and cities have ATMs that accept VISA (for their exact addresses check the ATM finder at: visa.via.infonow.net/locator/lac/jsp /SearchPage.jsp):
Chinandega - 1 ATM
Esteli – 1 ATM
Granada – 2 ATMs
Juigalpa Chontales - 2 ATMs
León - 2 ATMs
Managua - 23 ATMs (Including one at the airport.)
Masaya - 1 ATM
Matagalpa - 1 ATM
Rivas- 1 ATM