Wildlife Wonder at Refugio de Vida Silvestre Cuero y Salado

If you looking for an "off-the-beaten-path" experience, staying at Refugio de Vida Silvestre Cuero y Salado is the way to go. The 40 min access is via a "burra" or wooden platform on train tracks, propelled by one of the locals with a motorbike. The accommodation is very rustic and basic, but this is made up by the friendliness of the villagers, the excellent food served by the local chef and the helpful staff of FUCSA. The boat tours are far cheaper than going through regular tourist channels and I was very happy to support this non-profit organisation and the locals. The guide was excellent and I saw everything from monkeys, caimans, iguanas, manatees and of course, LOADS of birds. I stayed 4 nights, did 2x 4hr and 1x 2h boat tour and me not speaking Spanish was not an issue. Can recommend !

I really loved my overnight trip to the Cuero y Salado Refuge. It was perfect. I went with just one friend, and coordinated directly with a guide at the park to schedule an overnight stay there! We were the only visitors. The burra (banana) train (basically a wooden platform on wheels) arrived for us nearly on time. It is a beautiful and quirky 30-minute trip into the park from La Union. Jhoslyn, a park volunteer, met us on arrival. We had a brief tour, and fruit plates from the wonderful cook Isabel, before our 2- hour guided boat trip. We saw a monkey and a baby crocodile and tons of birds. Our guide was very knowledgable, and Jhoslyn helped translate the difficult spanish. The dorm room was a bit rustic, but very comfortable! Jhoslyn kindly brought us extra stand-up fans due to the heat. Next time, I'd still spend the night, but would try to schedule our boat trip for the early morning where we would probably be able to see more wildlife. I definitely recommend this experience if you're wanting to get off the beaten tourist track in Honduras, and meet some wonderful people who really care about this habitat.

Beautiful experience!!! We saw many manatees in their natural habitat, monkeys, and birds, with our guide Don Chepe. It was all part of community-based tourism. 💚🌊

The reserve is pure diversity, a natural wonder that we must protect at all costs, thanks to the refuge and the work being done there! I just left after two consecutive visits because I couldn't leave without trying to see the manatee. Unfortunately, it got away, but it was absolutely worth it. The service from Jhoslyn, Carlos, and César (the guide) was outstanding. They were attentive from the moment I contacted them (by the way, do this before going), doing everything they could for my arrival, then taking me out to dinner and even offering me coffee. They are true professionals who love their work and live to protect this marvel. A big hug to everyone and keep up the good work!

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.