Feedback

Honduras

6

Reasons To
Visit Honduras

  • Diving

    If you are looking for first class diving, or the perfect place to learn to dive, it doesn’t get much better than the Bay Islands. The spectacular coral reefs teem with sealife and there are enough prime dive sites to keep even the most experienced diver happy.

    Diving

  • The pyramids of Copán

    Visit the Maya ruins of Copán situated amidst a tranquil forest along the Copán river. Learn about the Mayan civilisation and explore the pyramids, plazas and famous Hieroglyphic Staircase.

    The pyramids of Copán

  • Wildlife

    Explore the Rio Plátano biosphere at La Mosquitia, where monkeys, toucans and jaguars roam the forests. A World Heritage site, the reserve has a number of endangered species.

    Wildlife

  • Off the beaten track

    Due to its developing infrastructure, Honduras is a largely underestimated country and thus is far less visited than others in Central America, which only adds to its appeal for those looking for something different. Visitors are rewarded with lush landscapes, wild national parks and unique accommodation.

    Off the beaten track

  • Rafting

    Rafting the Cangrejal River near La Ceiba is fantastic. Offering grades II and III, this river is suitable for all levels and rafting through the rainforest with toucans flying over head and the sounds of howler monkeys in the distance just adds to the experience.

    Rafting

  • Snorkelling

    Around Roatan there is some wonderful snorkelling to be had and the calm waters make this an ideal spot for even the most novice of snorkellers. You can arrange organised trips or just hire a snorkel and mask and head off independently.

    Snorkelling

Request a Brochure

Audley Central America, Mexico and Cuba Brochure

Central America

By Post Download Online 6422531
PrintShareLike

Excursions in Honduras: Copán Archaeological Site

A guided tour of the beautiful archaeological site of Copán, marking the most southerly point of the Maya Empire. Discovered in 1570 by Diego García de Palacio, the ruins of Copán were not excavated until the 19th century.

Underground Mayan temples at Copan
One of the impressive ball courts at CopanIntricate designs on the Mayan stellaeUnderground Copan Mayan ruins.The Copan ruins emerge from the forest.Underground Mayan temples at Copan

Copán Archaeological Site

Copán, Honduras
  • Culture & History

A guided tour of the beautiful archaeological site of Copán, marking the most southerly point of the Maya Empire. Discovered in 1570 by Diego García de Palacio, the ruins of Copán were not excavated until the 19th century. The ruined citadel and imposing public squares reveal the three main stages of development before the city was abandoned in the early 10th century.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, it is known for its intricate stone sculptures in particular the enormous and impressively carved stele representing the 17 Mayan leaders. Set amongst the forest you come across clearings of exposed ruins including the carved stelae and an amazing hieroglyphic stairway.

One of the main highlights is the subterranean tunnels dug by archaeologists under the acropolis to expose earlier stages of Copán civilization, some of which are now accessible for visitors. These underground tunnels reveal the facade of the Rosalila temple buried by the Maya underneath Temple 16.

There is an excellent museum at the site, which you can visit with your guide. The guides are not permitted to enter the museum to provide a tour but there are comprehensive explanations of the artefacts on display for your reference. This museum of Mayan Sculpture is particularly worth seeing as it houses a real size replica of the Rosalila Temple, a series of reconstructed temple facades with fine sculptures, and some original sculptures, including Altar Q which shows the royal lineage of Copán.

Other countries in Central America, Mexico & Cuba:
BelizeCosta RicaCubaGuatemalaMexicoNicaraguaPanama

{460145F1-756A-4335-A0D4-ED5CA34EC56A}