Rosita itself does not have much to offer except for a glimpse at an authentic Old-West style mining town. However, it’s a good place from which the adventurous traveler can visit surrounding indigenous communities. Isolated by a lack of paved roads from the Pacific Coast, the people of the North Atlantic Autonomous region don’t exactly consider themselves Nicaraguan. In fact, the region was never part of the Spanish empire at all, so most Christians are Protestant and the first language of the area’s inhabitants is almost always a native dialect. With that in mind, when visiting the outlying Miskito and Mayangna communities, be prepared to have communication problems. Additionally, conditions are rugged (electricity and running water are a rarity), so bring a filter or bottled water and a flashlight. Tours to nearby indigenous communities can be arranged by The Foundation for Unity and Reconstruction of the Atlantic Coast (FURCA) or the Mayor’s office. Contact FURCA at 505-2-794-1045, or in their Managua office, 505-2-249-7801, or via email: Furca@sdnnic.org.ni

A town laid out along one strip of road, Rosita is a cocaine shipping hub so best to stick to the main drag after dark. Hotels tend to be near the bus station, located along the middle of the main strip.

Hospedaje El Sol features basic rooms with shared bathrooms and a common room with TV. Singles go for 2.50 USD, doubles 4 USD (505-2-794-1129).

A more upscale option, located half a block from the Mayor’s office, is Hotel Los Ensuenos. It features amenities such as cable TV and air conditioning. There are also well-kept grounds and a parking lot. Rooms cost 10 USD per person, but use of the AC doubles the price (505-2-794-1004).

To get your surf and turf fix and catch up on your television viewing, head to Restaurant and Video Bar Martinez. Meals range from 3 to 7 USD. For dinner with a view, try Bar Campestre La Laguna Verde, located on the hill whose path begins behind the Catholic Church. A taxi here will cost 1 USD, or work up your appetite and take the one and a half kilometers hike up the road.