Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Isla San Fernando (Elvis Chavarría)
With even fewer people, tranquil San Fernando has comfortable accommodation, deli-
cious meals, and the islands' only gallery and museum. But the biggest attraction is the
San Fernando sunset. First the lake loses its color before reflecting the deep jungle green
of the surrounding forests. Then the sky pales, streaks pink and burns gold behind the
neighboring islands. When it gets dark, expect a black dome sky full of stars.
Sights & Activities
Located at the main dock, the
Oficina de Turismo
(Tourist Office; solentinamecan-
tur@yahoo.com; 9am-5pm)
is able to provide guides (US$15 per group) and recommend
captains for boat tours.
Some small
galleries
and
workshops
are strung along the strand of homes between Musas
and Albergue Celentiname.
The
Sendero El Trogón
is a 45-minute walking trail that passes some impressive petro-
glyphs and a lookout point. Pay US$5 admission at your hotel or the tourist office to use
the trail. Albergue Celentiname (
Click here
)
rents two-man canoes (US$4 per hour) to ex-
plore the surroundings, while Hostal Vanessa (
Click here
)
organizes sportfishing trips
(US$100 per day for up to three participants).
Union de Pintores y Artesanos de Solentiname 'Elvis Chavarría'
( 8am-noon & 2-5pm)
Set in an old mahogany house uphill from the sheltered dock, this
cooperative features the work of about 50 of the islands' top artists and artisans. Afford-
able balsa sculptures are in one room, and higher-end paintings (US$50 to US$1000) are
in the other. The view from here is incredible. If it's closed, ask for the key at Hotel
Cabañas Paraiso.
GALLERY
MUSEUM
Museo Archipiélago Solentiname
(Musas; admission US$2; 7am-noon & 2-5pm)
Follow the trail to the right of the dock uphill
through the avocado grove, and you'll find this museum. The view and surrounding gar-
dens alone are worth the hike. And inside you'll find terrific natural-history exhibits and
cultural exhibits including a collection of pre-Columbian pots and pestles.
Sleeping & Eating
