Hôtel au Nicaragua, monter à cheval, excursions?
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Hôtel au Nicaragua, monter à cheval, excursions?

by Pholane83

in Destinations › Central America

This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.

Original post
PH
Pholane83
RegularCavalaire · 94 posts
bonjour je me rends en amerique centrale cette année pour la premiere fois j'ai pas mal lu le forum et je crois que je vais allée au nicaragua si qu'elqu'un pouvait me donnée quelque plan d'hotel pas chere mis à part le barcelo et la siesta si l'on peut monter à cheval si il y a de belles excursions à faire et pour la mer je suis plus plongée que surf merci
si tu es installé dans ahimsa la non violence autour de toi l' hostilité disparaitra
PH Philippe2003 Veteran ·
Salut, La plongée, c'est sur la côte caraïbe, principalement les Corn Islands. Les hôtels, il y en a pour tous les goûts (il y a chaque fois la liste sur mon site). Pour les balades à chevaux, je sais que c'est possible dans la réserve de Domitila. Sur mon site, il y a aussi les excursions. www.perso.ch/pveyrat

Bon voyage

Philippe
Si tu pleures parce que tu as perdu le soleil, tes larmes t'empêcheront de voir les étoiles
EL Elchiquito ·
Bonjour Valerie pour vous conseillez les hotels

cela depend de la durée de votre voyage auberges jeunesses sont entre 10 et 20 la nuit disponibles un peu partout.. pour les chevaux , Masachapa est ideal Bon Voyage André
PH Pholane83 Regular ·
merci beaucoup je compte rester 2mois janvier fevrier elchiquito je voisque tu tiens un hotel sur place quel est le standing le prix et ou se trouve-t-il? merci philippe ton site est une mine d'or j'ai une autre question je viens de france et tout les vols que j'ai trouver font au minimum 30heures de voyage auriez-vous un meilleur plan et une derniéres si vous pouvez me conseiller quelques romans se passant au nicaragua encore merci
si tu es installé dans ahimsa la non violence autour de toi l' hostilité disparaitra
AR Aryane007 ·
Salut,

J'ai passé 2 mois à voyager au Nica en mars et avril dernier (2010). Pour la plongée, comme Philippe a mentionné, surtout sur la côte Caraïbe, sinon, peut-être possibilité à la Laguna Apoyo, via l'équipement de l'école/ "Estación Biológica" - Fundeci/Gaïa (http://www.gaianicaragua.org/) (mais tu seras loin de la plongée avec poissons multicolores et les coraux des Caraïbes...)

Pour les hôtels, pas cher, sympa et propre, voici quelques suggestions d'endroits que j'ai appréciés:

Leon: Lazy Bone Hostal (+ wifi gratuit et déjeuner possible sur place, bien situé, et une piscine... très pratique pcq Leon, c'est TRÈS chaud), sinon, voir le Big Foot

Las Penitas: Barca de Oro (en français aussi) (sur la plage, pleins de services sur place et resto, belle terrasse avec jardin), sinon...voir Le Playa Rocca (mais la bouffe n'est pas terrible, et la propreté dans la chambre/sdb aussi parfois...)... sans doute possibilité de faire du cheval + la réserve Juan Venado

Laguna Apoyo: Monkey Hut (propre, deck flottant, trippes pour la baignade, kayak) ou encore dans les installations de Fundeci-Gaïa, si tu veux un environnement différent, suivre des cours d'espagnol en plein air entre 2 baignades... à 2-3 minutes à pieds de la plage publique)

Masachapa: Casa Del Titito (en français aussi, sur la plage, très clean, sympa, + une piscine, et offre certains services, de bons conseils)

Granada: hey oui... La Siesta! (un incontournable... vraiment une excellente référence)

Ometepe - Charco Verde: Finca Venetia (propre, tranquille, resto + divers services, sur la plage, et à côté de la réserve Charco Verde)

Ometepe - Merida: Hacienda Merida (sur la plage, divers services, resto... et les seuls a avoir internet dans ce secteur, selon tes besoins), ou encore Caballito Mar dont j'ai entendu parlé, mais je ne suis pas allé

Ometepe - Istiam: Casa Istiam (on traverse le chemin pour la plage, resto sur place... dans l'ensemble, plutôt moyen, mais tranquille...)

Ometepe - Zopilote: j'ai visité la Finca Zopilote qui a l'air bien sympa, mais n'ai pas eu le temps de rester pour la nuit.

Ometepe - Santo Domingo: Hotel Finca Santo Domingo (sur la plage, plus resto et services. Leurs chevaux sont juste de l'autre côté de la rue... faire le tour jusqu'à Ojo de Agua à cheval, à travers diverses plantations, vraiment super, voir aussi celui de la plage vers les petropglyphes d'El Porvenir)

Dans le Rio San Juan, je peux aussi te donner diverses références si tu pense te rendre dans ce coin (dont la réserve Esperenza Verde, à El Castillo, et le refuge de Batola pour les expéditions dans la réserve Indio-Maiz)

Sur la côte Caraïbes, je suis resté à Big Corn et n'ai pas pu visité Little Corn à cause de la mauvaise température. Mais j'ai eu du bon service au Paraiso Club (sur la plage, + resto). C'était l'endroit le plus cher de tout ceux où je suis allé (à seulement une cinquantaine de $ versus partout ailleurs au Nica, de 12 à 30$ max), mais je trouvais que c'était un bon compromis. Le prix est plus cher dans ces îles. Cependant, si c'était à refaire, j'investirais un peu plus et irais au Arenas Club et leur magnifique bout de plage + bar on the beach. L'endroit était complet à cause d'une équipe de tournage italienne lorsque j'étais de passage, mais j'ai bien aimé la plage dans ce coin. Pour visiter Big Corn avec un des natifs (en anglais), faire une virée en forêt, goûter au super yucca cake de sa femme (!), voir des raccoins pas mentionnés dans les travel book, téléphoner à David Taylor (505) 89 22 98 46. Pas encore des les books non plus, mais à visiter, le resto de la "mamma" Dona Lola à la Casa Oro del Negro.

Pour San Juan del Sur, je dirais que ça ne vaut pas forcément le détour, sauf comme point de transfert pour aller faire du surf (ou sortir faire le party en soirée), la Casa Oro Hostel sont pleins de ressources pour le surf et les transports, avec une cuisine et une belle terrasse sur le toît, mais franchement trop bruyant pour moi... je suis allé ailleurs dès le lendemain à cause de ça. Et tout compte fait, Las Penitas et Masachapa sont définitivement vraiment mieux pour la baignade sur la côte Pacifique...

Certaines activités que j'ai fait et beaucoup aimé:

La descente du volcan Cerro Negro, un incontournable. La visite de la réserve du volcan Mombacho est vraiment bien, surtout si tu a une encyclopédie vivante tel que Dave (ou David?) de Tierra Tour Granada (avec le détour sur la plantation de café las Flores). Le volcan Maderas à Ometepe, et les pétroglyphes dans ce secteur là (prêt de Merida) Baignade à la source "Ojo de Agua" à Ometepe, juste après une ballade à cheval sur la plage et les plantations à proximité La réserve Juan Venado à Las Penitas, le sanctuaire d'oiseaux L'expédition en forêt via la réserve Esperenza Verde, aux limites du Costa Rica - et surtout, l'expédition de soir pour les caïmans, vraiment incontournable! L'expédition dans la jungle de la réserve Indio-Maiz, via le refuge Bartola

Pour la visite du volcan Massaya, c'est plus intéressant de soir avec la visite des grottes en plus.

Pour la visite du marché de Massaya, pas grand chose à dire, sinon y aller en fin de journée pour voir un peu les boutiques, et plutôt profiter des spectacles en soirée (les jeudi ou vendredis, je crois... à vérifier). Sinon, l'achat de poteries/hammack et autres, je recommande fortement de faire le détour au village de San Juan del Oriente . C'est le village des artisans. La majorité des poteries/artisanat du Nica viennent de ce village. Et de profiter de la vue sur la lagune Apoyo au belvédère de Catarina durant votre passage, à pied, juste à côté de San Juan del Oriente.

Pour ne nommer que ces acitvités...

Si tu as un intérêt pour les petroglyphes et l'histoire avant la colonisation, une expédition sur l'île de Zapateras et isla El Muerto est un must. Possible d'arranger quelque chose avec Boris de La Siesta, à Granada (ou encore des packages de groupe via Tierra Tour, sans doute...). Il y a des petropglyphes un peu partout à Ometepe, mais la Finca Magdalena, à Balgue serait sûrement une excellente source de guides avisés, puisqu'ils hébergent occasionnelement des équipes d'archéologues depuis des années (de culturelink.info). J'ai fait un tour à ceux de El Porvenir, et aussi pas très loin de Merida qui sont pas mal.

Si tu veux un tour d'horizon de la révolution Nica, la ville de Leon en regorge. C'était une place forte durant cette période. Un tour de ville avec histoire accompagné d'un bon guide est très intéressant.

:-)
Quand tu penses que tu n'as plus rien, tu penses encore... et dans ce lieux-là, il y a de tout. - Noëe, 1984
PH Pholane83 Regular ·
je te remercie vraiment d'avoir pris le temps de me donner tout ces précieux renseignements. tout le monde essaie de me décourager d'aller au nica as-tu eu des problemes lors de ton sejour? et tu parles espagnole? encore merci
si tu es installé dans ahimsa la non violence autour de toi l' hostilité disparaitra
AR Aryane007 ·
Hello, Ça me fait plaisir de répondre, si ça peu inspirer quelqu'un. Je ne suis pas une habituée des forums comme membre actif. Ce sont mes premiers posts. Voir aussi 2 autres réponses que j'ai données sur le Nica hier, tu y trouveras d'autres infos.

Non je n'ai pas eu de problème en tant que tel. Cependant, le manque d'espagnol peut parfois s'avérer une source d'irritation, quand on s'éloigne des centres urbains et même encore... avec un minimum de mots "basiques" en espagnol, le français qui s'en rapproche et un peu d'anglais, on passe un peu n'importe où. Je ne parlais pas un mot d'espagnol à mon départ, et j'ai pris quelques cours sur place en plus d'un "phrase book", histoire de pouvoir me débrouiller au minimum.

J'avais choisi cette destination pour 2 raisons principales: le bon niveau de sécurité - étant une femme voyageant seule - et le coût économique d'à peu près tout là-bas (hotels, bouffe, activités). Je n'avait jamais voyagé avant (à part peut-être quand j'étais toute petite, avec mes parents, pas très loin aux USA). J'ai fait beaucoup de recherches pour planifier ce voyage (je voulais faire le tour du pays en prenant mon temps) et je ne l'ai pas regretté. Ma sécurité n'a pas été en danger à aucun moment, mais faut dire que comme j'étais seule, je ne sortais pas vraiment le soir non plus. J'ai pris toutes sortes de transports - en passant par les "chicken bus" et les tuk-tuk (vélo ou moto-taxi), j'ai assisté à des événement/rassemblements publiques (entre autres, des processions religieuses durant la semaine sainte) et suis parfois sorti des sentiers battus (longues ballades en forêt - seule - pour photographier les oiseaux) sans être inquiétée. Les gens se saluent dans la rue, même envers une inconnue de passage comme moi.

Avec les mêmes directives du gros bon sens comme pour n'importe où sur la planète, il s'agit d'être viligeant, d'avoir du jugement. Aller se ballader seule dans un "barrios" et sortir ton kodak à 500$...ça ne se fait pas... Tu vois ce que je veux dire. J'ai même eu l'occasion de discuter de cette même "sécurité" avec la ministre de la défense lorsque j'étais de passage dans une zone isolée, à Bartola (refuge dans la jungle, près d'un poste de l'armée qui contrôle la frontière avec le Costa Rica - elle était de passage pour veiller au bon fonctionnement), et je crois qu'on s'entend là-dessus... beaucoup de touristes craignent le Nica par ignorance et non pas parce qu'il y a de réels dangers "élevés". La révolution est derrière, et c'est relativement calme.

Il y a quand même un bémol au tableau - Managua. Oui, c'est plus dangereux et il est préférable d'être accompagné avec quelqu'un d'avisé pour certains lieux/activités. J'y ai visité plusieurs endroits de leur patrimoine avec un guide/chauffeur de taxi qui est resté alerte tout le temps et veillé à s'arrêter dans des lieux sécuritaires ou encore m'escorter si je demandais à m'éloigner pour prendre certaines photos, comme par exemple à la plaza de la Paz (où les armes et un tank de la révolution ont été coulés dans le béton sur la place publique, dans un acte fort et mémorable...). Partout ailleurs qu'à Managua, je me suis promené seule.

Il y a beau avoir une très grande pauvreté économique dans le peuple, les Nicas sont riches de bien autres choses qui les unient, notamment un style de vie qui valorise le respect et le partage dès le plus jeune âge, une grande conscience de leur collectivité, de leur parcours en tant que peuple, et c'est très bien ancré dans leur culture. Ils regardent vers l'avant, sans rien oublier ce par quoi ils ont eu a passer, et s'efforcent de bâtir quelque chose.

Donc je le dis tout haut, malgré une infrastructure touristique encore peu développée, n'hésitez pas à choisir le Nicaragua comme destination vacances. Il y a pleins de choses à découvrir et à faire, et c'est sécuritaire. Cependant, si vous recherchez le grand luxe, allez au Barcelo Montellimar (ou dans un autre pays) et n'en sortez que pour des activités de l'hôtel pré-organisées - diversifiées et bien plaisantes. C'est un resort comme n'importe où ailleurs, et ils s'auront vous en mettre plein la vue, la poudre aux yeux inclut. ;)

Voilà donc pour mon avis personnel...

Au plaisir! :)
Quand tu penses que tu n'as plus rien, tu penses encore... et dans ce lieux-là, il y a de tout. - Noëe, 1984
BO Boma Regular ·
Salut!

Tu as déjà eu de bons contacts pour les pistes de voyage, voici quelques idées:plongée: Corn Islands surtoutCheval:Finca Nicaragua Libre tout près de Granada, finca en Estelí (miraflor par exemple, accessible en bus), plage du Pacifique (Masachapa, Las Peñitas, San Juan del Sur), Ometepe (presque partout), ...Bon voyage!
"Hoy es un buen día, mejor que ayer pero peor que mañana"
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Last-minute trip to Guatemala with kids
Hi there, We’ve had to change our plans, so we’re heading to Guatemala from October 16 to 25, 2025 (in just 6 days 😱 😊😕), with two kids aged 8 and 10. No time difference for us.

Here’s our itinerary: Day 1: Morning: Arrival in Guatemala City at 9 AM. Drive to Antigua (1-hour shuttle) / Afternoon: Stroll around Antigua / Night: Antigua Day 2: Explore Antigua / Night: Antigua Day 3: Visit the area around Antigua OR hike a volcano (Acatenango?) / Night: Antigua Day 4: Drive to Chichicastenango for the big market (how many hours?) / Afternoon: Iximche ruins? Or the hanging bridges at Atitlán Reserve? Or spend the day in Chichicastenango / Night: Panajachel Day 5: A day by boat visiting villages around the lake and checking out local crafts (which villages to pick?), Night: Panajachel Day 6: Drive to Flores with 1 stop? Should we go to Semuc Champey? (how many hours?), Night: ?? Day 7: Drive to Flores (how many hours?), Night: Flores Day 8: Yaxha (1.5-hour drive each way with a driver), Night: Flores Day 9: Day trip to Tikal, Night: Flores Day 10:: Flight from Flores to Guatemala City, then departure at 4:30 PM

About hiking a volcano, I’ve read mixed reviews. Some say it’s easy, others say it’s tough. Is there a kid-friendly hike where we could see lava from a volcano? Is it only visible at night? Do we *have* to sleep at the top and come down the next day? I’ve heard of people doing it with 2-year-olds by carrying them, and others using horses—but I guess the horses don’t go all the way up? Seeing a real volcano would be amazing! I think it’d be a memorable experience for the kids. It’d be so cool to say, "We did that as a family!" But maybe it’s way too hard and a bad idea...

I’m struggling to find reliable info on travel times: - How long is the drive from Antigua to Chichicastenango, please? I’ve read shuttles leave at 7 AM and arrive at the market by 8:30 AM, but I’ve also seen people say it’s a 4-hour trip 😕. Are the times on Google Maps reliable?

A blog mentioned visiting Chichicastenango’s market in the morning and Iximché in the afternoon. That seems like a lot of driving, especially after leaving Antigua in the morning. What should we do in the afternoon instead?

Days 6 and 7: The trip from Panajachel to Flores. Any advice on taking an overnight bus? Should we go during the day with a stop at Semuc Champey? Or fly and spend the extra day somewhere else?

Day 8: Is a full day at Yaxha too much?

Thanks so much for your help—it’s *so* valuable with such short notice! 😅 😅 😅 THANK YOU PS: If you have recommendations for private drivers, shuttle services, or any firsthand experience, I’d love to hear it!
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Nordsud 5 months ago · Sinforosa
Day trip to the Panama Canal
Hi, a friend will be in Panama at an all-inclusive resort and was wondering if it's worth visiting the Canal in a single day, and also which attractions shouldn't be missed. Is it better to choose a package deal? What's the recommended mode of transport for this trip? Thanks
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Reist 5 months ago · Junqua
Where to spend 6 weeks in Costa Rica in early 2026 for a retired couple?
We’re a retired couple in our 70s looking to spend six weeks in Costa Rica between mid-January and mid-March 2026. We’d like to stay in comfortable bungalows (2x3 weeks) and rent a car for the entire period. We enjoy light hiking and some beach time, but we also love relaxing on a shaded veranda, reading, and unwinding. Which places would suit these preferences? We have a lot of experience with this kind of stay in the French West Indies or Indian Ocean islands but have never been to Central America. Does anyone have good tips?
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Deffunk 5 months ago · Sinforosa
From Nicaragua to Honduras and El Salvador: Where to Cross the Borders?
Hi there, after my trip to Nicaragua in January, I’m planning to visit Honduras and El Salvador during the same journey. Can anyone tell me where to cross the border from Nicaragua to Honduras by bus? Is it doable? Safe? And most importantly, what’s a good route to take and what’s worth seeing in Honduras in a safe way?

Is it better to travel with a group (through an agency) or is solo travel no problem?

P.S.: And for El Salvador, same question—what’s a good route and what’s generally worth seeing? Is it better to start in the south (El Salvador) and then head north to Honduras before continuing to Guatemala, or...?

Thanks for the tips!
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Sinforosa 6 months ago
Back from two months in Guatemala
Hi there,

I spent two months alone in Guatemala this summer, without a guide or agency, and I’d love to share a quick recap of my impressions.

● First off, it’s really easy to travel without a guide or agency. If you want a guide for excursions, you can easily find one through the many agencies in Antigua or Panajachel. In Flores, there are also plenty of agencies offering multi-day jungle treks.

● I got around by shuttle for part of the "classic" and more touristy route. To step off that path, I took "camionetas" (chicken buses) or minibuses.

For me, "camionetas" are the best way to get around Guatemala. They let you travel everywhere, fully immersed, at the local pace. They run all the time and are even an adventure in themselves.

Shuttles are direct, but local buses aren’t. No matter how you travel, trips take a while because roads are often in bad shape, and in the mountains, you can’t overtake.

● As for safety, there’s nothing unusual compared to other Latin American countries. Just keep in mind it’s not Europe. As a solo woman, I try not to draw too much attention—though traveling alone already does that. Like in other countries, I was often asked where my kids and husband were, and I just gave whatever answer I felt like.

● Budget-wise, Guatemala isn’t too expensive for French tourists, but Antigua and Panajachel—two very touristy spots—are pricier.

● Guatemala is a small country but incredibly rich in culture and nature (volcanoes, mountains, beaches, etc.). You can easily spend several days (or even weeks) in each region.

● My top picks ❤️:

- The Mayan markets, especially the one in San Francisco El Alto - The Ixil Triangle: Nebaj, Chajul, Acul - The stunning landscapes around Todos Santos Cuchumatán - Antigua, very touristy but beautiful - Lake Atitlán, also touristy but gorgeous

I planned to climb Pacaya Volcano, but early in my trip, there was an earthquake in Antigua, and by the end, I wasn’t in the mood. Climbing Acatenango is more spectacular but also more challenging.

● Biggest highlights ❤️ ❤️:

- Tikal—it’s THE must-see site, an incredible mix of archaeology and nature!

- The Joyabaj Fair, which I hadn’t planned to visit but ended up spending a week at: Mayan ceremonies, equestrian parades, diverse dances, processions with Mayan priests, and especially the "palo volador"—the highlight of the festival!

● Small letdown 👎:

- Ranchitos del Quetzal, where I went hoping to spot the quetzal. I knew it wasn’t the right season, but I was still disappointed—I didn’t see any other birds either, and the hiking options were limited. It also took me a slight detour from Cobán.

If you have any questions, I’d be happy to answer them.

● If you’re interested, I kept a more detailed travel journal, and I’m working on another one just about the Joyabaj Fair:

https://www.myatlas.com/borboleta/guatemala-deux-mois-au-pays-de-la-couleur
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Marcjadore 6 months ago · Chrissand
Transport, safety, and car rental: Mexico City-Oaxaca-Yucatán
Hi there,

We’re planning a road trip in Mexico.

Is it feasible to rent a car from Mexico City to Oaxaca? What’s the road safety like?

After that, we’d like to take a domestic flight to the Yucatán. Same question—especially about safety when visiting Palenque.

We have a child, so we don’t want to take any risks with safety.

We speak Spanish and have already lived in Nicaragua for two years.

What’s the weather like in August? We’re a bit unsure.

Thanks for your help and tips!

Marc
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Marie5210 7 months ago · Spioumspioum
Mexico Trip Itinerary: Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Pacific Coast
Hi there,

We’re planning a 15-day family trip in February 2026 (with 3 teens). We’ll be visiting friends who live in Puebla. Initially, I was thinking of the Yucatán, but after reading up on it, I don’t think it’s the right fit for us (too crowded, too touristy). So, we’re leaning toward something like this: - Mexico City: 2 days (Teotihuacán + city) - Puebla: 3 days - Tehuacán: 2 days (to break up the trip—is this a good choice? Is there enough to do for 2 days?) - Oaxaca: 3 days (Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán, city/tours) - Pacific Coast: 4 days (snorkeling, excursions)

Does this seem balanced? We’d like to end on the coast for some relaxation, ocean time, and fun for the kids. I’ve seen lots of excursions offered along the coast but can’t decide where to stay. Puerto Escondido? Huatulco? The beaches seem better for snorkeling in Huatulco, but I’ve read mixed things, and it’s farther away. What do you think?

For transportation, is this doable by bus? I’m struggling to find a decent bus between Tehuacán and Oaxaca (overnight schedules), and I’m not sure how to get around the coast. Also, how do we handle luggage between cities? We usually rent a car.

Finally, I’d love feedback on the Pacific Coast excursions—I get the feeling some are worth it and others aren’t. Is bioluminescence really magical? Are dolphin-watching tours ethical and not too "factory-like"? (We skipped them in Quebec and just watched whales from shore.) Can you see sea turtles up close?

Thanks for your help!
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Chantalram 7 months ago · Sinforosa
One-month trip to Nicaragua – feedback
Hi everyone, There’s not much info out there on Nicaragua in general, which is why I posted my questions here on the forum... but didn’t get many answers since it’s tough to find any anyway. It’s a stunning country, but my experience was mixed. There are areas with very few tourists (which is exactly what we were looking for), but as a result, there’s almost no way to get around (unless you walk, and even that’s not easy or always possible) and no real tourist infrastructure. Finding info is nearly impossible—there’s practically nothing, so it’s hard to know what you’ll find in a given place, whether it’s worth taking a 12-hour bus ride across the country, only to turn around 48 hours later. The easy and pleasant spots: Granada, Ometepe, San Juan del Sur and the Pacific beaches, León, and the Corn Islands. These are the places mentioned in guidebooks (the rest is jungle to the east, not many roads south of the lake, and no boats on the lake either—except for the Rivas-Ometepe connection). Venturing off the beaten path is really tough. The Caribbean coast: aside from the Corn Islands (which are very touristy but not easy to reach by ferry from Bluefields), or if you want to take a flight with La Costeña, book in advance—there are often very few seats! The rest isn’t particularly satisfying, especially Pearl Lagoon, where swimming isn’t possible due to unsafe water. Don’t expect a postcard-perfect setting. But everything’s worth it if you have the time... Buses: there are plenty, and they’re super cheap—but be warned, they stop everywhere, take forever, and are loud (though kind of charming in a vintage way). Too many buses can ruin a trip. Lodges: affordable on a small budget, except in Managua and along the entire Caribbean coast! For example, beaches like El Tránsito (which is gorgeous) charge at least $50 or $60 per night for a basic room. Good to know. In Matagalpa, we tried to rent a motorcycle to get around—impossible. I asked everywhere, but there was no way. So we cut our stay short because once you’ve explored Selva Negra, there’s not much else to do (an 8-hour bus ride to see a waterfall? No thanks). These might seem like small details, but they really matter when you want to enjoy where you are and discover nice spots—you end up stuck. Bring plenty of mosquito spray + oral antihistamines: mosquitoes and bites are a *serious* nuisance. (I got over 200 bites in one go during a trip to a humid tropical forest, even though I was covered and protected.) All in all, it’s an adventurous, exploratory trip. The people are great, and we never felt unsafe (even though some travelers have had *really* bad experiences). I thought there’d be a carnival since it was the right time of year—nothing. No dancing, not festive at all (compared to Brazil, for example, it’s the complete opposite). We saw animals, but no toucans, for example! For a beautiful, pristine, and well-organized trip, everyone agrees—go to Costa Rica, but be prepared to pay a lot more. Nicaragua is something else entirely. For surfers, though, it’s amazing! Personally, I love watching fish in clear, calm waters, hiking in nature, and swimming—I think I picked the wrong destination, but I’m glad I got to experience this totally wild side of Central America! :-)
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Tedisback 7 months ago · Sinforosa
Question: 15-Day Guatemala Itinerary
Hello,

Here’s our itinerary for 15 days in Guatemala. Does it seem logical in terms of distances to avoid overly long trips? If not, which stop should we cut?

- Antigua - Atitlán - Lanquín - Río Dulce - El Remate – Flores - Guatemala City

Could you help me estimate the approximate travel time for these routes by tourist bus or shuttle?

- Atitlán – Lanquín - Lanquín – Río Dulce - Río Dulce – El Remate - Flores – Guatemala City

Thanks for your help
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Sourireagir 7 months ago
Are Puerto Viejo and Bri Bri tourist traps?
Hi everyone, I’m so happy 🙂 to be traveling again after 5 years without a trip. I’m heading back to Costa Rica for 18 days from December 12th to 30th with a friend. We’re doing San José-Sarapiquí (2 nights), then Sarapiquí-Tortuguero (3 nights), then from Tortuguero heading to the Cahuita and Puerto Viejo area. We’ll spend about ten days in that region, then make a 2-day stop somewhere before flying back out of San José. From what I’ve read on this blog, Puerto Viejo seems like the "rasta," party-friendly spot, which is honestly the kind of place I tend to avoid—too touristy. I’m looking for places surrounded by beautiful nature. I’ve already spent several weeks in Drake Bay (in 2019 and 10 years before that) and loved it. My friend also wants to visit the Bri Bri. Could you recommend some authentic spots in this southern Caribbean area? Your favorite places—whether it’s sights to see, accommodations, or even your favorite little restaurants 😛? What’s the most authentic way to visit the Bri Bri? What’s your take on that? And finally, what beautiful stop would you recommend before heading back to San José? A huge thank you to everyone! Have a great day, Zineb
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Matheuse84 7 months ago · Espaces
Agency for a tour to Yaxchilan and Bonampak from Palenque
Hi everyone,

We’d like to do a tour to Yaxchilan and Bonampak from Palenque, but it seems there are tons of travel agencies offering this tour. We’ve also read about a lot of disappointments... any recommendations?

Thanks, and have a great week.

Marie.
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Mimose 8 months ago · Heiata
Review of car rentals in Cancun
Hi, I’m heading to Cancun next January and I’m looking for a rental car. I’m overwhelmed by all these cheap offers from sites like Booking, Carigami, and others... Some reviews mention extra insurance fees that had to be paid on the spot. I’d love to hear about your experiences—what company did you use? Were you charged any additional costs? A lot of ads redirect to Touracancun, but they don’t seem trustworthy to me. Thanks for your feedback!
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Claireloise 9 months ago
Is it possible to travel in Central America without a return ticket?
Hi,

My son is finishing up a year of working holiday in Canada soon. His plan is to take a bus from Montreal to Florida on 10/26, stay there for a few days, then fly to Cancun, Mexico. From there, he doesn’t have a precise plan yet, except to head down to Panama if the security situation in the countries he’ll cross allows it. Then, in March 2026, he’ll take a flight to Martinique, where he’d like to either find a sailboat (as crew) for the return transatlantic crossing (option 1) or do a sailing internship that includes the crossing (option 2).

So my questions are: - Will he be able to re-enter Mexico without an exit date or proof of a flight back to Belgium? Would being able to prove his return by sailboat with a specific date (option 2, the sailing internship) make things easier? - Are there any countries to avoid between Mexico and Panama? He’s traveling backpacker-style on a small budget.

Thanks for your answers.

Claire
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States1 9 months ago
Mexico itinerary in February
Hi everyone, absolute travel lovers after our 20 trips to the USA, we’ve decided to head to Mexico in February (flight already booked: Nice to Cancun on February 20th, returning on the evening of March 1st).

I’m mainly hesitating about trying to do too much, as usual when discovering a new country. Here’s my itinerary—I’m unsure about a few things: - **Day 1**: Should we stay relaxed at the resort we booked, or should we do Isla Mujeres instead? If we stay, when’s the best time to visit the island? - **Day 3**: If we visit Chichén Itzá right at opening, will the Ik-Kil cenote be quieter in terms of tourists? If not, which cenote nearby would you recommend? - **Big decision**: Should we go all the way down to Bacalar or not? After that, it feels a bit rushed. **Day 6** is mandatory, or are there other options? Honestly, I’m counting on your advice!

For context, we’re a family of four (with very grown-up kids who are used to traveling), and we’ve already rented an SUV for this period. Thanks in advance for your help—it’ll be invaluable!

**Departure – February 20th**: Arrival in Cancún

Arrival at 8:20 PM, pick up rental car. Overnight in Cancún.

**Day 1 – February 21st**: Isla Mujeres

Ferry from Cancún to Isla Mujeres. Playa Norte, snorkeling, golf cart tour. Return to Cancún. Overnight in Cancún.

**Day 2 – February 22nd**: Ek’ Balam + Cenote X’Canché → Valladolid

Drive from Cancún to Ek’ Balam (~2h). Visit the archaeological site. Swim at Cenote X’Canché. Drive to Valladolid (~30 min). Overnight in Valladolid.

**Day 3 – February 23rd**: Chichén Itzá → Bacalar

Early departure to Chichén Itzá (~45 min). Guided tour + optional visit to Ik-Kil cenote. Drive to Bacalar (~4h). Overnight in Bacalar.

**Day 4 – February 24th**: Bacalar

Boat excursion to the "Laguna of Seven Colors." Cenote Azul + Fuerte San Felipe. Overnight in Bacalar.

**Day 5 – February 25th**: Bacalar → Tulum + Ruins, Cenote & Beach

Drive (~3.5h). Settle in Tulum. Visit the Mayan ruins of Tulum (stunning ocean view). Swim in Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera. End the day at Playa Paraíso. Overnight in Tulum.

**Day 6 – February 26th**: Sian Ka’an Reserve

Guided excursion:

Option Muyil (half-day): boat tour + swim in the Mayan canal. Option Punta Allen (full-day): dolphins, turtles, snorkeling on the reef.

Overnight in Tulum.

**Day 7 – February 27th**: Tulum → Akumal → Playa del Carmen

Morning: snorkeling with turtles in Akumal. Lunch, then drive to Playa del Carmen. Evening on 5th Avenue. Overnight in Playa del Carmen.

**Day 8 – February 28th**: Playa del Carmen → Puerto Morelos

Free morning in Playa del Carmen (beach or Cenotes Azul & Cristalino). Afternoon: drive to Puerto Morelos (~30 min). Overnight in Puerto Morelos.

**Day 9 – March 1st**: Puerto Morelos → Cancún → Return flight

Relaxing morning in Puerto Morelos. Drive (~30 min) to Cancún Airport. Return rental car. Return flight.
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Stephane513 10 months ago · OldPlatypus
Family Trip Itinerary for the Yucatán
Hi there,

Back in 2002, we spent two weeks in Playa del Carmen. We did day trips to Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Xcaret.

We’re heading back at Christmas with our two daughters, aged 15 and 19. I’m sure it’s changed a lot with the booming tourism.

Flights are booked: Paris-Cancún on 19/12 (arriving at 8:20 PM) and Cancún-Paris on 01/01 at 1:30 PM. We’re still finalizing the itinerary because we want to explore but don’t want to switch hotels too often. We’ll be there for 13 nights and 12 days, so we’re choosing among: - Playa del Carmen - Cozumel - Holbox - Valladolid - Tulum - Mahahual

We won’t do everything, so any tips would be great! I’m also unsure if renting a car is the best option.

Thanks in advance!

Stéphane
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