Chacahua is a gorgeous destination around a couple of hours away from Puerto Escondido that is a must-visit if you have at least one day spare while in this gorgeous Oaxacan town.
Chacahua is a stunning and underrated destination in Oaxaca and you definitely don’t want to miss visiting here while in Mexico.
Where Is Chacahua?
The gorgeous island of Chacahua is located approximately 2 hours North West of Puerto Escondido.
If you were to Google Maps the directions to Chacahua you may find that it will direct you to another area called Chacahua south of Puerto Escondido near Mazunte.
This is NOT the Chacahua that people talk about when they tell you to visit so make sure you familiarise yourself with the map above as this is where you want to go.
Puerto Escondido To Chacahua
There are a number of ways to get from Puerto Escondido to Chacahua however the following is our detailed guide as to how to get there.
In Puerto Escondido you will find colectivo’s at the TUR terminal that go to Rio Grande which depart approximately once every 30 minutes.
Be sure to let the driver know that you plan to go to Chacahua and he will let you off at the intersection with El Zapotalito.
At the time of writing the ride takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes and the price is 55 pesos per person.
Across from where you get out of the colectivo you will be able to wait for a colectivo taxi which will take you to El Zapotalito for 20 pesos per person.
From here you will be able by boat through stunning mangrove labrynths to Chacahua on a 45 minute boat road.
The price varies and is based on how many people you are travelling with. You can expect to pay anywhere from 200 – 500 pesos per person depending on your group size.
You want to be travelling with a group of at least 4 otherwise the driver is unlikely to depart for less than 2000 pesos as it is just not worth his time and the fuel it takes to get there.
If you’re travelling alone or with just 1 or 2 people you may want to consider going there with a tour.
The other option is to take a boat from El Zapotalito to the nearest dock on the island and get a colectivo to the town however one of the highlights is the journey there.
What is the cheapest way to get from Puerto Escondido to Chacahua?
If you’re looking to get from Puerto Escondido to Chacahua the cheapest way possible you will need to take the colectivo to El Zapotalito and then take the shuttle boat. This will cost approximately 20 USD.
Can I travel by bus from Puerto Escondido to Chacahua?
There are no buses that will go here but there is the colectivo minivan which will take you to the El Zapotalito intersection. From there the shared taxi will take you to the dock where you’ll be able to organize boat transfers.
Puerto Escondido Tour To Chacahua
An alternative way to explore Chacaha for the day if you’re limited for time or would rather not stress about getting there is on a tour.
Tours cost around $140 USD for the day and you’ll have a guide to show you all of the best parts.
If you were to book a tour we’d recommend checking out the tours with Viator as if you’re lucky you can snap up a day trip there for up to 50% off.
The tours take you through incredible mangrove labyrinths before arriving on the gorgeous island known as Chacahua.
While on the island you’ll get to enjoy traditional food as well as breathtaking views. You’ll hike to the lighthouse and another gorgeous rock lookout for sunset.
On the trip back you’ll stop in the lagoon and get to experience a bioluminescence swim to end the trip with a another Puerto Escondido highlight.
Chacahua Summary
Chacahua is definitely high on our list of things to do in Puerto Escondido so we would definitely recommend visiting the island regardless if you go yourself or with an organized tour.
There are no ATMs on the island so make sure you bring cash and a change of clothes as you’ll definitely want to go for a swim while you’re there.
