Plizio Visual Lab
Los Micos Lagoon
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Weather…
Water temperature…
Laguna de los Micos is an easy on the eye coastal lagoon situated near the town of Tela and is a core part of the Jeannette Kawas National Park. Its name is derived from the numerous howler monkeys (locally called micos) that inhabit the surrounding mangrove forests. The lagoon features a complex brackish water ecosystem that supports over 200 bird species and a vast array of fish. On the eastern fringe of the lagoon lies the Garifuna village of Miami, where residents maintain a traditional lifestyle centered on fishing. Boat tours through the winding mangrove channels offer a glimpse into a largely undisturbed natural world. The lagoon is an ecological cornerstone for the preservation of Honduras' northern coast.
- Location: Honduras
- Nearby: Comayagua (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 180 | 110 | 81 | 47 | 115 | 195 | 172 | 174 | 198 | 279 | 286 | 189 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Most visitors access this coastal environment starting from Tela, utilizing established local tour providers who arrange boat transportation into the wetlands.
Best season
The dry season is typically considered the best time for a visit, as lower rainfall significantly improves the chances of observing diverse wildlife in the area.
Terrain & paths
Given its nature as a sprawling coastal ecosystem, the area is predominantly aquatic with dense vegetation, making boats the primary mode of transportation.
What to bring
Packing a hat, reliable sunscreen, strong bug spray, and perhaps a waterproof bag for electronic devices is generally recommended for this wetland environment.
Parking
Safe parking options are usually found directly within the town limits of Tela or at the specific departure points provided by the chosen tour operators.
Safety
It is important to listen carefully to the guides regarding encounters with local fauna, and to apply adequate sun protection while out on the reflective water.
Time needed
Visitors should typically set aside at least a half-day, roughly three to four hours, to properly experience the rich biodiversity of this expansive coastal lagoon.
Geography
Facts
- The lagoon covers approximately 40 km².
- It is home to more than 250 different bird species.
- Mangrove forests form natural channels perfect for boating.
- Manatees are occasionally spotted within its waters.
- The Garifuna village of Miami is built mostly of thatched huts.
- It is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where does the lagoon get its name from?
It is named after the numerous howler monkeys (Micos) that live in the surrounding mangroves.
How can one visit the lagoon?
Boat tours are mostly offered from Tela, often including lunch.
Can you swim in the lagoon?
Swimming is not recommended; the lagoon is better suited for birdwatching.
What bird species are found there?
Over 250 bird species, including herons, pelicans, and toucans, have been recorded here.
Is the lagoon part of a park?
Yes, it is a central part of the Jeannette Kawas National Park.
Los Micos Lagoon: where is it located?
Los Micos Lagoon is located in Honduras.
Los Micos Lagoon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Los Micos Lagoon: why is it worth visiting?
Laguna de los Micos is an easy on the eye coastal lagoon situated near the town of Tela and is a core part of the Jeannette Kawas National Park.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Honduras →
Nearby cities
Triunfo de la Cruz
One of the largest Garifuna communities in Honduras, on the Bay of Tela.
Tela
A coastal city with beautiful beaches and a rich Garifuna culture.
La Masica
A municipality in the Atlántida department whose economy is characterized by agriculture and livestock.
Utila
The smallest of the Bay Islands, world-renowned for whale shark sightings and affordable diving.
Morazán
A municipality in the Yoro department, named after the Central American hero Francisco Morazán.
Half Moon Caye
Half Moon Caye is a crescent-shaped natural monument in Lighthouse Reef, famous for its protected red-footed booby colony and spectacular…
Aramecina
A municipality in the Valle department, near the border with El Salvador.
Langue
A city in the Valle department, a local commercial center for the surrounding municipalities.
Amapala
A historic port on El Tigre Island in the Gulf of Fonseca.
Nacaome
A city on the Pacific, an important transportation hub in the south.
Cane
A small, picturesque municipality known for its pottery and Lenca culture.
Mahahual
A charming coastal village on the Costa Maya, Mahahual serves as a gateway to the Banco Chinchorro reef and pristine Caribbean beaches.
🗺️
Cedeño
Cedeño is a popular coastal village in the Gulf of Fonseca, known for its volcanic black sand beaches and the best seafood on the Pacific…
🗺️
Jiquilillo
A remote beach paradise in northern Nicaragua, known for its vast dark sand beaches and sea turtle conservation efforts.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Jeannette Kawas National Park (Punta Sal)
A coastal national park with beaches, jungle, mangroves, and a rich wildlife.
🗺️
Tela Port
Historic port once central to banana transport.
🗺️
Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge
A protected area of mangrove forests and wetlands on the Caribbean coast.
Cordillera Nombre de Dios
A spectacular mountain range on the northern coast.
Pico Bonito Range
A steep mountain range overlooking the coastal plains of La Ceiba.
La Ceiba Port
Important port for ferry traffic to the islands.
Pico Pijol
The highest peak in Pico Pijol National Park, known for its pristine cloud forest.
San Jeronimo Church
A historical church near Comayagua, representing the rural colonial style of the region.