Step-by-Step Guide: How to get from Puerto Escondido to Chacahua in Laguna de Chacahua National Park
Step 1: Start at Terminal Tur Bus Station
- Location: Find the Terminal Tur bus station in Puerto Escondido, located near the main road and close to the OCC bus station. Here is the location.
Step 2: Take a Colectivo to El Zapotalito
- Transportation: Board a colectivo (shared minivan) heading to the intersection near El Zapotalito.
- Cost: Approximately 80 pesos per person.
- Travel Time: About 1 hour. Colectivos run every 15-30 minutes. Just tell the driver “El Zapotalito,” and they’ll drop you off at the designated intersection, next to La Bamba restaurant.
Step 3: Taxi to El Zapotalito
- After Being Dropped Off: Cross the road to the taxi shelter and take a taxi to El Zapotalito.
- Cost: 25 pesos per person.
- Travel Time: Around 10 minutes. Taxis are usually waiting there so you won’t have to wait long.
Step 4: Choose Your Route to Chacahua
- Upon Reaching El Zapotalito, you have two options to get to Chacahua
Option 1: Direct Boat (Recommended) - Departure Point: Head to Servicios Turisticos La Isla Del Vendo (There will be locals waiting to take you) on a direct boat.
- Cost: 200-400 pesos per person – Depend bhow many people are coming with you
- Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes. This option provides a stunning ride through the mangrove forests. Lanchas only depart when they are full, so you might wait a little while for other passengers.
- Arrival: You’ll be dropped off near the main square in Chacahua.
Option 2: Boat + Truck Combo - Departure Point: Go to the boat Colectivos area for shared lanchas.
- Cost: 100 pesos total (50 pesos for the boat, 50 pesos for the truck).
- Travel Time: Also about 45 minutes. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes, followed by a 30-minute bumpy truck ride to the main plaza.
- Note: This option is more budget-friendly but less scenic compared to the direct boat.
Additional Tips for Your Journey
- Download Google Maps: Make sure to have Google Maps available offline, as cell reception can be spotty in the area.
- Cash is Essential: Bring enough cash, as there are no ATMs in Chacahua. Most businesses accept only cash.
- Best Time to Travel: Early morning is ideal for a quieter trip and to enjoy the beautiful scenery without the crowds.
- Scenic Direct Lancha: If time allows, take the scenic direct lancha to enjoy the breathtaking views of the mangroves and wildlife. For the return, the budget combo is a good choice.
- Accommodation: You usually don’t need to book in advance; there are plenty of places to stay across all price ranges that you can negotiate.
Enjoy your trip to Chacahua and the beautiful landscapes along the way!