Masaya is 30 km south of Managua on the Carretera Masaya, and is one of the easiest towns to reach in Nicaragua. Express minibuses run frequently from Mercado Huembes in Managua, taking about 40 minutes. Regular buses also run from Granada, a 30-minute ride. Taxis from Managua cost around US$20–25 for a private hire; shared taxis (colectivos) are significantly cheaper.
From Granada, Masaya is an easy half-day trip: buses run regularly and the journey takes around 30 minutes on the Carretera Masaya.
There is no direct bus from the Nicaraguan border crossing at Peñas Blancas (Costa Rica) or from the northern border crossings — you must first reach Managua and transfer there.