Diverse, far-flung and untamed, Eastern Nicaragua is the perfect destination for adventurous travelers. Relax on blissful islands, spot exotic wildlife in stunning nature reserves and experience the life of flourishing tribal groups. Eastern Nicaragua stretches along the Caribbean Sea and is made up of two autonomous regions, Atlántico Sur and Atlántico Norte. It is the largest section of the Mosquito Coast, a 225-mile (360-kilometer) long former colonial area that stretches into Honduras.
Atlántico Norte is Nicaragua’s most remote region. Tours to its major attractions depart from gritty Puerto Cabezas. Visit fishing villages, snorkel in crystalline water and spot colorful birdlife on the islands of Miskito Cays. Witness gold prospecting traditions at inland mining towns such as Siuna, Rosita and Bonanza.
Travel to the Miskito communities of Tuapi and Krukira by dirt bike and go swimming at Pahra Lagoon. Witness indigenous lifestyles at Dakura, Pahra and Sandy Bay, connected via a trail passing through scenic countryside. Paddle a canoe down the Wawa River. Ride a mountain bike along Wawa Beach, a great location for picnics, swimming and fruit picking.
Learn about the African, European, mestizo and indigenous lifestyle of Bluefields, the regional capital of Atlántico Sur. Spot monkeys, toucans and wild cats in Kahka Creek Wildlife Refuge and Wawashang Hill Natural Reserve. Start here to visit Miskito villages. Relax on the white-sand beaches of Pearl Lagoon. Uncover a veritable Caribbean island utopia at the Corn Islands and Pearl Cays.
Head to the Atlántico Sur’s far south for a guided tour of the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve. See parrots, macaws, bears, jaguars and monkeys, among other animals. Hike trails, cruise on a river, admire impressive rock formations and stay overnight at a Rama Indian village.
Reach Eastern Nicaragua by flying from Managua to Bluefields or Puerto Cabezas. Dirt roads, thick jungle, mangrove forests, swamps and limited transportation options make traveling time-consuming. Those who arrive here discover a region of spectacular beauty and rewarding cultural encounters.
