During our sojourn in the town of Gracias in western Honduras, we heard about the two hot springs found in its vicinity. One is called Termas del Rio and is located 9km north of Gracias, on the way to Las Flores. The other is in the village of Arcilaca, 5 km south of Gracias. Due to it being closer, as well as having better facilities, we chose the latter for a day trip.
We got there on foot, following the main road south from Gracias for 3 km until an “aguas termales” sign pointing to the right (coordinates: 14.5716, -88.5664), and another 2 km on a quiet provincial road thereafter.
We took a tuk-tuk on the way back for 50 lempiras. So I suppose that should also be the ride price to get there if you’d rather avoid the walk. On the main road by the southern edge of Gracias, I think I also heard a guy shouting Arcilaca as the destination of a minibus, but I wouldn’t take an oath. To be sure, I didn’t notice any bus driving past along the way to the village.
A few hotels/restaurants are situated before the entrance to the hot springs. We sat at one of them for breakfast and went for a dip. We had to pay a 50-lempiras entry fee to get to the pools, but it was overall worth it (says me who rarely is fond of paying any sort of tickets).
There were three pools in total; one of them deep and fairly large. The temperature, according to a sign, was 36°C. Having sweated on the way, I’d be rather looking forward to a cold bath. But after I got used to the freshness of the encompassing jungle, I found the warm water pretty pleasant.
Around the pools, there is plenty of sitting space to chill and cool down. However, the gigantic local mosquitos were quick to notice us and prompt us to get back into the water. The site also had toilets, a restaurant, and a refreshments canteen.
Despite being a weekday, the place was quite busy. Perhaps more than a hundred people were present. I can imagine it rammed on the weekends.
Having spent there a good few hours of relaxation, we began on our way back to Gracias.
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Accommodation and Activities in Honduras
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Photo Gallery
View (and if you want use) all my photographs from Arcilaca Springs.
