El Refugio

The Río San Juan & Islas Solentiname


The highest concentration of craft workshops on the islands are just inland from the dock in Comunidad El Mancarrón (also called El Refugio). Feel free to wander and watch as families carve balsa-wood figures in their homes and front yards. Children sand the pieces smooth, and the most talented adult paints. Wooden animals cost US$1.20 to US$50; prices rise with size and quality.