Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
lated provisions so it could continue to exploit the region's natural resources, and not be held re-
sponsible for providing much-needed infrastructure.
After the war, former Contras and Misurasata members formed Yapti Tasba Masraka Nanih
Asla takanka (Yatama; 'Descendants of Mother Earth'), a political party that gets the vast major-
ity of the indigenous vote in every election. With the return of the FSLN to power, Yatama lead-
ers, many of whom are former Contras, have divided their supporters by aligning themselves
with the Sandinistas. Whether this is another example of a cunning Miskito strategic alliance to
exercise power in the region or a sellout for personal gain depends on which side of the divide
you sit.
And even though there are now Miskito leaders sitting in parliament in Managua, this indigen-
ous pueblo remains as feisty and independent as ever, evidenced by the not uncommon street
protests and occupation of government offices and airports in the region.
Information
There are numerous internet cafes around Parque Central charging around US$0.50 per
hour.
BanPro
Changes dollars and has a Visa/MasterCard ATM.
Correos de Nicaragua
(Post Office; adentro Alcaldía;
8am-1pm Mon-Fri)
Hospital
(
2792-2259/43)
8am-2pm Mon-Fri)
Visa extensions and
Migración
(Immigration Office; contiguo a la Policia;
entry/exit stamps for the Honduran border.
8am-2pm)
Dedicated staff know the
Intur
(puertocabezas@intur.gob.ni; Parque Central, 2c N;
area in detail and facilitate trips to local communities.
Police
(
2792-2256)
Getting There & Away
AIR
Although you can hop on a super-long-distance (and rather painful) bus from Managua or
(occasionally) catch a boat from Corn Island, most people come by plane.
La Costeña
(Aeropuerto; 8am-noon & 3-6pm)
offers regular flights to Managua and Bluefields. Book
tickets in advance. Departure tax is US$2. Flights include the following:
Bluefields
(one way/return US$96/148, 50 minutes, 11:20am Monday, Wednesday and
Friday)
