I absolutely loved my stay at Los Olingos! From the second I stepped foot on the property, I immediately felt right at home due to the warm and welcoming nature of our hosts. It was a treat to be immediately greeted by the welcoming staff members with fresh coconut water and an incredible view of the Lagoon de Los Micos. ||Throughout our stay, I felt that our hosts were incredibly thoughtful. For example, one afternoon while lounging in the pool during the warm day, we were brought chilled and tasty mint mojitos. So refreshing and reflective of the hosts’ thoughtful natures! ||Los Olingos allowed for a perfect combination of rest and adventure. Our hosts asked us about our interests and curated an itinerary that allowed us to simply enjoy each excursion without having to worry about any of the details. It was such a nice retreat from the constant decision-making of everyday life! ||Staying at this eco-lodge allowed us to really immerse ourselves in the local environment. Our hosts at Los Olingos coordinated all transportation via boat and car, allowing us to truly appreciate and observe the beautiful sceneries. Our first day we visited Miami Beach, a short boat ride away from the property. This was one of the most beautiful boat rides I have ever been on! We traveled through a mangrove field, bird-watched, and saw jumping fish along the way! Miami Beach itself had incredibly blue waters. Another day we traveled to Punta Sal where we were able to walk through the beautiful Jeannette Kawas National Park and snorkel and swim in the blue waters. During all of these excursions, our hosts coordinated all tours, allowing us to feel very comfortable. Other activities we enjoyed at Los Olingos included early morning canoe rides, boat rides around the lagoon, walks through the fruit tree groves, lounging on the hammocks, and swimming in the pool. ||Residing in the El Cocal cottage was an absolutely picturesque experience. The view of the sunrise on the still waters of the lagoon with the chirping of birds was lovely. Laying on the patio hammock after returning from the day’s excursion was one of my favorite experiences. The rooms themselves were very comfortable and clean with AC units, plush beds, and spacious bathrooms. ||I could not end this review without talking about the meals! Each meal was fresh and produced with local ingredients! The fish was locally caught and was some of the best fish I have ever had. The fresh fruit juices ranging from mango to tamarind were an absolute delight during the warm days. Manuel, the host at the restaurant, was so kind and always going a step beyond to ensure that we were comfortable. During one meal we requested hot sauce and he brought a freshly made salsa that we all loved so much! He subsequently brought it out every night since he knew how much we loved it! ||Overall, my experience at Los Olingos was incredible and I would recommend it for anyone looking to both relax and learn about a rich ecosystem and culture. It was evident that each decision at the lodge was made with consideration of the local plant and animal life and community, aiming to preserve and respect this...
Read moreI was looking for a restful tropical retreat in Honduras, but got so much more at Los Olingos. This place has history. The family who runs it has owned the land for several generations and has carefully restored and developed it with love and pride. Maria, the owner, is so proud to show off the wildflowers, fruit trees, and exotic animals all across the property (and incorporate the fruit into your fresh morning juices!). She and her team bring a personal touch to every element of the stay, such that it feels like a luxury guesthouse experience, rather than what you'd get at some impersonal resort. The "eco lodge" name is very accurate--the land is teeming with exotic birds, iguanas, and of course, olingos (monkeys) due to Maria's family's careful protection and restoration of the surrounding rainforest. The lagoon shore is bordered by beautiful mangrove trees. You wake up every morning to a perfect symphony of birdsong and rainforest sounds...truly healing and restorative. ||We stayed in the El Cocal cottage (pictured) and found it had everything we were looking for in a home away from home. Fully functioning kitchen with filtered water provided to refill our bottles, comfortable bedrooms and bathrooms, and a beautiful sprawling porch from which to view the lagoon through palm fronds. The grounds are well-maintained and lovely to stroll through with many different places to take in a view or relax in a hammock. My favorite place to relax was at the end of the dock, sheltered from the sun and with an offshore breeze gently swaying the hammocks (also pictured). During our stay, construction was underway for a pool, which will be a great addition to the grounds (and was the only thing missing from our trip).||Maria organized several day trips for us that were well worth it... out to Miami beach for a more traditional "beach" experience and on a boat trip to the nearby Jeannette Kawas National Park, which offered that pristine, remote "secret" beach experience with excellent snorkeling through thriving coral. She also took us on a peaceful morning canoe-ing experience in the lagoon and to a nearby farm for a medicinal honey tasting and some horseback riding. All of this was planned and executed without us having to lift a finger.||Los Olingos would be the perfect place for a family reunion, conference, or corporate team-building trip. It has a more private, relaxed, intimate feel than what you'd get at a larger resort. If you're an eco-traveler that likes to get to know the place and people where you're traveling, look no further than...
Read moreI spent an extraordinary week at the enchanting eco lodge known as Los Olingos, and I must say, it was an experience beyond compare! This remarkable eco lodge, nestled harmoniously in its surroundings, not only showcased its unwavering commitment to the preservation of the local environment but also emanated a deep reverence for the land and its people. From the very moment I arrived, I knew I had chosen a destination that embodied the essence of sustainable living and held profound respect for its surroundings.
The hospitality at Los Olingos was nothing short of exceptional. Every new day greeted us with warm smiles, fragrant coffee, and a delicious breakfast spread that showcased the flavors of the region. Nestled among the trees and the lagoon, the hammocks provided the perfect space for relaxation.
Each morning the sun painted the sky in hues of gold and pink and nature's melodies reverberated through the tranquil lagoon, creating a wonderful harmony. Our days were filled with unforgettable adventure. Every moment was thrilling, yet relaxing: From peaceful canoe rides to exploring the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling. We rode horses and spent evenings in the clear cooling pool, met with refreshing drinks.
However, it was not just the breathtaking scenery and the thrilling activities that made Los Olingos truly remarkable. The graciousness with which the Los Olingos family welcomed us into their world was nothing short of heartwarming. They shared with us not only their delectable cuisine, crafted with love and expertise, but also their cherished customs and traditions.
Until I return, I carry with me the memories of this wonderful spot, forever grateful to Los Olingos for granting me a glimpse into a world where sustainability, beauty, and the warmth of human...
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