My husband and I spent a wonderful, relaxing week at Charco Verde at the end of Dec. To the beginning of Jan. Unlike a previous reviewer, we found Rosa the receptioist to be warm and helpful, and the entire wait staff in the restaurant were fantastic---attentive, good-natured, and professional. They were a big part of our enjoyment there, in fact. The cabins are simply furnished but clean and nice-sized. We swam, kayaked, bird and monkey-watched, visited the other side of the island on a motor scooter, and otherwise kicked back and relaxed. If we ever return to Ometepe, we'd definitely stay at Charco Verde again.

Right from the first greeting at the ferry, this place was hard to enjoy, so surly and rude are the staff. Even though they send a bus to collect you there's a cost and it is twice that of a taxi!! So we ended up in the ridiculous situation of taking a taxi which followed their bus all the way here - not very eco!

When you actually arrive be prepared for grumpy staff and none of that friendly Nica service that you' expect. And we had to wait half an hour for someone to actually check us in.

Food is also bad - stones in my eggs! And way overpriced.

All in all - a good one to avoid, I'd say. Sorry. But that's the situation here.

I stayed at Hotel Charco Verdo last weekend, Dec 11 (on the Mayogolpa side, not Altogracia), and mostly enjoyed my stay. Laguna Charco Verde is a great place to kayak, and I enjoyed the restaurant which is right on the lake. The staff were friendly and courteous, but only spoke Spanish.

Only catch was my cabin (#9) had bed bugs. These are pretty common on the island, so check your mattress for signs before you accept a room, and exercise the usual precautions when you return home.

Al S

We had a great time here. Lovely hiking around the wetlands and beaches and a great little inexpensive restaurant. I would highly recommend this spot.