There is a large bridge over a broad river on the eastern side of the town; just west of this bridge is a crossroads (north is the Shrimp ponds road); turn south and then left to drive back towards the river. After about 200 yards you’ll get to the small dock on the right with all the tour boats. This is where the river/mangrove boat trips depart from. About 40 yards before this dock there is turning on the right that goes up a steep hill – Chencho’s house is the third or fourth house on the left up this hill – just ask someone. The current rate for the 5+ hour afternoon/evening trip to Tovares was 600 pesos – and still well worth it. Chenco has a huge Owling light and a small tape player, with some of the target birds on it – including Rufous-necked Wood-Rail (we did not see it.)

Telephone:
Cost: 0 USD per person
Hours:

Tips:

We took only one tour, the night river/mangrove ride. We sought out Chencho (ask at the boat dock in Matanchen, or go to his house: lime-green on the left heading up the steep road to the fort), and were very pleased with his efforts. The tour costs 500 pesos for the boat, about four hours. The boatmen are regulated by what appears to be a cooperative, so the price is set and paid to the co-op rather than to the boatman. We tipped Chencho some 20%+. He knows his birds and what birders are looking for, knows the English names, and was very considerate. The ride back after dark can be chilly, so take a jacket

Type: Sights & Activities
Tags: