Money Matters

La Mosquitía has no ATMs, but the bank in Puerto Lempira, the only one in the region, can issue cash advances on Visa cards. Outside the capital city, every place else takes cash lempiras only. Be sure to have plenty of small bills on hand, as most family-run operations can't break big notes. A five-day trip via land might cost over $400 including transportation, lodging, meals, and tour guides, for example. Keep your cash in a money belt around your waist, not as much to prevent theft, but to ensure that none of your precious bills get left behind.

Bank

Banco Atlántida. Puerto Lempira. 898-7580. www.bancatlan.hn. Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30, Sat. 8:30-11:30.