On your first day in Managua, someone will probably give you directions that sound like a riddle: from a petrol station, two blocks up, one block toward the lake. Rather than worrying about it, treat it as a small game. With a few words and a little practice, the system becomes logical, and even rather charming. Our reference page on how Managua addresses work explains the rules; here is how to put them into practice.
Find your anchor
Begin by learning the landmark nearest to where you are staying. It might be a shopping centre, a rotonda, a church or a school. Ask your host to write down your address in full, including the landmark, and save it on your phone. That landmark will be your anchor for the rest of the trip, the thing you tell every taxi driver.
Learn four words
Arriba means east, toward the sunrise. Abajo means west. Al lago means north, toward Lake Managua, and al sur means south. With the sun in the sky, you can always work out which way is up. Distances are in cuadras, blocks.
Try a short walk
In the cool of the morning, pick a café or bakery a few blocks away and ask for directions in this style. Follow them on foot, counting blocks and checking the sun. In districts like Reparto San Juan and Los Robles, the residential grid makes this easy. You will notice that people give directions generously, often walking you to the corner.
Use the system in taxis
When you take a taxi, give the landmark first, then the directions. Drivers know the city's landmarks, including ones that no longer exist, so they will usually understand at once. If you have a map pin, show it as well. Agree the fare before setting off; see getting around Managua.
Enjoy the ghosts
Before long you will hear directions starting "de donde fue...", from where something used to be. They are a reminder that Managua's map lives as much in people's memories as on paper. Asking about a ghost landmark is also a good way to start a conversation.