Discover the beaches, isolated villages, lagoons and offshore cays of Atlántico Norte (North Atlantic Coast). Experience the way of life of fishermen, gold miners and tribal communities. Enjoy biking, hiking, sailing and swimming adventures. Atlántico Norte is the northeasternmost region of Nicaragua. It is a section of the Mosquito Coast, a 225-mile (360-kilometer) coastal zone named after the Miskito Indians who still inhabit the villages.
Puerto Cabezas (or Bilwi) is the largest town. From here tours depart for the region’s major attractions. Wander the dusty streets lined with antique churches and workshops. Overhear conversations in English, Spanish and Miskito. Sample the coconut-infused bean, fish and rice dishes of the local costeña (coastal) food.
Charter a sailboat to visit the Miskito Cays, a collection of lagoons, mangrove forests, reefs and islands inhabited by fishing communities of Caribbean Creole and Miskito descent living in stilted houses. Try spearfishing, go snorkeling and spot wildlife such as exotic birds, stingrays and turtles. Watch the sunset while relaxing in this unique spot.
Travel north from Puerto Cabezas to the Miskito villages of Tuapi and Krukira. Ride on a dirt bike around Dakura Lagoon and Pahra Lagoon. Find a quiet spot to sunbathe or swim. Walk via a loop footpath between the indigenous communities of Dakura, Pahra and Sandy Bay. The trail crosses grasslands, skirts lagoons and passes through sections of thick forests.
To the south, Wawa is another base for tours amid scenic natural beauty. Join a canoeing excursion on the Wawa River or go mountain-biking and fruit picking along Wawa Beach. Travel into the mountainous interior and learn about Nicaragua’s gold prospecting history at mines in Bonanza, Siuna and Rosita.
Reach Atlántico Norte by flying to Puerto Cabezas Airport from Bluefields or Managua and then get around via organized tours. Most of the region is underdeveloped and has a limited tourism infrastructure, making it is a sought-after destination among intrepid travelers in search of the ultimate challenge.