Miami

The idyllic thatch-hut village of Miami rests on a narrow sand spit, backed by Laguna de los Micos [1] and fronted by the Caribbean. Unlike Tornabé [2] or Triunfo [3], Miami is almost totally undeveloped (so far), with most families still living in the traditional Garífuna thatched huts. Facilities are minimal—if you want to spend more than the day here, ask around for food and a room or a place to sling a hammock. One room with space for a hammock is usually available next to the only store in Miami.

Motorized and paddle canoes can be rented to explore the lagoon. More territory can be covered with the motor, but it scares wildlife away. Locals say camping on the inland side of the lagoon is possible, which would be excellent for early morning bird-watching.

Small boats are also available to take visitors to Punta Sal [4]. For the budget camper, the absolute cheapest way to get out to Punta Sal from Tela [5] is to get to Miami by bus and truck, then walk eight kilometers on the beach out to the point.

Prolansate has helped fund a small visitors center in Miami, in a cabin right at the entrance to town, with displays, maps, and photos of Punta Sal and Laguna de los Micos. The staff person is a good source of information about the village or for arranging visits around the lagoon. The center is usually open daily. Because Miami is part of Punta Sal National Park [4], visitors are charged US$3 (for foreigners) to enter the village.

Note: In 2005 the InterAmerican Devel-opment Bank approved a US$16 million loan for the development of ecotourism at Los Micos [1], and in the fall of 2008 the Hilton chain announced plans for a hotel at Los Micos [1], so many more options may become available over the next few years, for better or for worse.

Getting to Miami

Trucks leave Tornabé [2] heading west to Miami a couple of times a day (none on Sunday) at irregular hours, but usually early in the morning, charging US$0.75 for the half-hour drive (expect a tight fit as they pack ’em in). It’s possible to walk the road in a couple of hours, but bring a hat and plenty of water, as there’s not much shade on the way. Don’t try driving this road unless you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle—there’s lots of soft sand.