No ATM! San Francisco and Trigana have no ATMs, so make sure you have enough cash to cover all your needs: accommodation, meals, activities and transportation.
Our experience
If you’re looking for an activity that’s neither too long nor too difficult in the San Francisco – Triganá region, this walk between the two villages could be an excellent option! Allow about 6 km round trip, from muelle to muelle (a muelle is a pier or pontoon for boats), or about 1h40 of leisurely walking, not including a break.
For our part, staying in San Francisco, this hike naturally led us to Triganá. In our opinion, it’s a little better that way: the village of Triganá has a slightly more enchanting charm than San Francisco. Those who make the journey in the other direction, from Triganá to San Francisco, may be disappointed.
Whichever way you turn, the trail follows the coastline. It is flat, alternating sand, earth and concrete. Most of the time, there’s no natural shade, which means that when the weather‘s fine, you’ll be walking in the sun.
Fortunately for us, this was not the case. We set off from San Francisco on a grey morning in late September, perfect weather for walking. As we didn’t want to spend the whole day on activities, we thought this trip to Triganá would be ideal. We quickly leave the village and walk along two nearby beaches: Playa Manizales and Playa Trigaterna. As we’ve already mentioned in other articles about the region, these beaches aren ‘t paradise: they’re a bit dirty, littered with plastics, trunks and branches. Important to know for those expecting Caribbean postcards: here, beauty is found elsewhere than in the sand.
We continue our stroll, moving gently towards the first scattered houses, thus entering Triganá. Nestled in a bay between the sea and the hills of the Serranía del Darién, the village contrasts with the flat San Francisco: here, everything hugs the relief, lending an intimate, picturesque charm. As we walk along the bay, our goal is the muelle, which can be seen from San Francisco, thanks to the shape of the bay (well, you have to squint to get a good look).
And what a nice surprise when we arrived! The area around the muelle is really pleasant: the beach is cleaner, thewater is calmer, and a few hundred meters of sand unfurl in front of shady trees and colorful houses or discreet hotels. Out of season, there’s hardly anyone around, and the feeling of having the beach all to yourself is total.
But the heavens decided otherwise: a sudden downpour forced us to take refuge in a nearby bar, cocktails in hand. Yes, life really isn’t easy! After an hour or so of waiting, a lull appeared, giving us the perfect window to start the journey back to San Francisco… and maybe another cocktail on arrival!
How to get to Triganá from San Francisco ?
As we were staying in San Francisco, we’ll explain the route to Triganá. If you’re staying overnight in Triganá, all you have to do is go back the way you came. In both cases, the route is simple and straightforward.
From the San Francisco wharf, take the road running north through the village. It goes slightly inland: go straight on for a few dozen metres until you reach an intersection, then turn right, staying due north. The path then gradually leaves the village and skirts the sea, taking you directly to Triganá.
The Triganá quay is at the far end of the bay. We recommend you go all the way to the end: the beach is pleasant and there are plenty of bars and restaurants where you can take a break and relax.
The round trip between the two platforms is around 6 km. And it’s a leisurely 50-minute walk to the other village.
Where to sleep San Fransisco (Caribbean Choco) ?
Please note: most accommodations are not listed on major platforms like Booking. Reservations are usually made live, by contacting the owners via Instagram or WhatsApp.
Finding a place to sleep in San Francisco is an integral part of the experience. There are no large, standardized hotels here: the offer is based mainly on small, local addresses, run by local people. The welcome is authentic, simple and warm. Friendly inns, houses overlooking the bay or more rudimentary accommodation in the heart of nature: there’s a place to suit everyone’s desire for tranquillity and authenticity.
Given the modest size of the village, accommodation in Triganá – around 50 minutes’ walk away – can also be an interesting alternative. It’s a great change of scenery and a great way to discover the southern part of the Chocó Caribbean.
In this section, we’ll help you choose the accommodation best suited to your way of traveling, your desires and your budget.
San Fransisco
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Al Vaivén De Hamacas
Al Vaivén De Hamacas is a place that travelers describe as deeply soothing. We come here to slow down, let ourselves be lulled by the hammocks and enjoy a sincere, caring atmosphere. The home-cooked meals are often praised, as is the attentive welcome from the hosts. The comfort remains simple, but the experience is authentic and warm.
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Ecohotel Caracoli
The Ecohotel Caracoli has a simple, authentic atmosphere, with functional rooms that are close to nature and often open onto tropical vegetation. Travelers generally praise the cleanliness of the rooms, the basic but appropriate comforts, and the warm welcome provided by the staff. It’s not a luxurious hotel, but an immersive one.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
CocoMar Hostal
Estefanía is an exceptional host, present and attentive from the beginning to the end of our stay. We spent four nights with her and felt accompanied every step of the way. The cabins, just a few steps from the sea and 20 seconds from the pontoon, are simple but clean. The food is delicious and the help in organizing activities really invaluable.
Trigana
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Treegana Hostal
Treegana Hostal captivates with its simple, immersive atmosphere in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation. Rooms are basic but comfortable, some with private bathrooms, offering the essentials for resting after an active day. Travelers appreciate the swimming pool, shared kitchen and breakfast. An attentive welcome. An authentic address, without superfluous luxury, but full of charm.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Hotel Cabañas Anayansy
Travelers who have stayed at Cabañas Anayansy describe a simple, unpretentious experience. The cabañas are private, with in-house bathrooms, double beds and bunk beds, giving a rustic yet functional feel. Feedback highlights a very natural atmosphere, with basic facilities: fans rather than air-conditioning, simple furnishings and limited services. The property is beautiful and well kept.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
Hotel Acuarium Turístico
Travelers report that Hotel Acuarium Turístico rooms are simple but clean, and that the staff are friendly and smiling, giving a relaxed atmosphere to the stay. Some appreciate the tranquility and easy access to the beach, while others note that services remain basic, with no luxurious extras – rather a humble and sincere place to rest after a day’s sightseeing.
Notes & tips
Bring a bathing suit
There are several beaches along the way, so pack your swimsuit and towel – in the heat of the day, you might just want to take a dip!
Bring sunscreen
You’ll be walking without shade most of the time, so if the sun is out, watch out for sunburn. Remember to apply a generous amount of sun cream.
Take water with you
Although the villages are not very far away (about 50 minutes) and you can buy drinks on the spot, it’s best to take a bottle of water with you – especially if you drink a lot or if the sun is out.
