If you’re looking for a place in Nicaragua where you can go from touristy to the unknown in a matter of a few kilometres, all you need to do is head over to Las Minas—the mining triangle. Most tourists will pass this region of the country altogether, because most of the towns have little or no tourist infrastructure. But if you know at least basic Spanish and you can afford the bus or plane ride, you’ll find Las Minas to be enriching. Las Minas is surrounded by many cities that speak no English and are not friendly to tourists. However, the three cities within the triangle—Bonanza, Rosita and Siuna—are welcoming to tourists and have affordable restaurants and hotels.

Sightseeing
Las Minas is also home to the Reserva de Biosfera Bosawas, which is worth a visit if you’re in town. The one thing you truly won’t want to miss in these towns is the opportunity to go jewellery shopping—these towns got their collective name, Las Minas, for being fruitful in the gold mining business, and you’ll find yourself in good company if you want a great piece of solid gold bling. However, when in Las Minas remember to hire a guide, stick to the marked trails and roads, have plenty of cash on-hand—no one accepts credit cards and there are no ATMs, bring a flashlight and make sure you have great rain gear.