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Waspam, Rio Coco
Physical Description
Waspam Río Coco is located on the northeastern Nicaraguan border in
the North Atlantic Autonomous Region (RAAN). Approximately 4,500
people live in the city of Waspam, the majority of which are
indigenous Miskito people who maintain many of their culture and
their own dialect, Miskito. Waspam is located approximately 560
kilometers to the northeast of Managua and it is the largest town in
the northeast part of Nicaragua
Climate
There are two seasons in Waspam: summer (dry) and the winter (wet).
The wet season usually lasts from April to November and the dry
season from December to March.
Transportation
There is air transport on the Costena three days a week between
Managua and Waspam and Puerto Cabeza and Waspam (Tuesday, Thursday,
and Saturday). There is only one airport in the city, which bears
the same name as the city. Buses leave from Waspam to Puerto Cabeza.
There are usually one to three buses that make the 3-4 hour journey
daily. There are boats that transport goods up and down the river
however most are private and service is unpredictable.
Economy
Economic activity includes the sale of beans and rice, wood, small
amounts of gold and services (stores, restaurants, and social
services).
Agriculture/Food
Common crops include beans, rice, bananas, plantains, yucca, coconut
and seasonal fruits (oranges, mangos, papayas, etc.). During the
short summer months you will see locally grown tomatoes, cabbage,
green peppers, cucumbers and pineapples in the market. During the
winter/rainy months most vegetables are imported which is reflected
in the higher prices. One of Nicaragua’s largest trees, the barrel-trunked
ceiba has, according to Miskitu myth, powerful spirits that are not
to be fooled with.
Restaurants/Night Life
There are two restaurants in Waspam, one located on the waterfront
and another by the baseball stadium. Several other cafes and street
food vendors can be found around town. There are two main places to
stay the night: Las Cabanas (safe and somewhat quiet, located off
the main street and another hostel by the bus stop in the center of
town (can be a little noisy).
Other Places of Interest
Waspam has a gas station, ice factory, radio station and receives
two TV channels from Mexico and Spain. There are two major churches
(Moravian and Catholic) and several other small churches. There are
two elementary schools and one high school in Waspam.
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