Copán Ruinas - Discovering Honduras

Travelling to Copán Ruinas

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Copán Ruinas, a pretty good destination in Honduras (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Copán Ruinas and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Copán Ruinas, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Honduras, here's everything to know about Copán Ruinas for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Copán Ruinas

Copán Ruinas is a small picturesque town located in the western part of Honduras, near the Guatemala border. It is famous for its awe-inspiring archaeological site, Copán, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was once an important Maya city. The ancient ruins of Copán cover an area of 25 square kilometers, and include a beautiful range of temples, pyramids, plazas, and ball courts, which reveal fascinating insights into the fascinating Mayan civilization. Apart from the archaeological site, Copán Ruinas also boasts beautiful natural surroundings, including lush forests, rolling hills, and beautiful rivers, making it a great place for outdoor adventures such as hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. In addition, Copán Ruinas has a charming town center, with colorful streets, lively markets, and cozy cafes and restaurants serving delicious Honduran cuisine.

What to visit in Copán Ruinas

1. Copán Archaeological Site - This site was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 and is considered one of the most impressive Mayan ruins. The carved stelae, intricate hieroglyphics, and impressive plazas illustrate the sophistication of the ancient Mayan civilization.
2. Macaw Mountain Bird Park and Nature Reserve - This is a nature lover's paradise where you can witness beautiful birds fly freely in natural surroundings. You can also learn about the conservation efforts that are taken for these species and get up close and personal with some of the birds.
3. Hacienda San Lucas - This historic farmhouse turned guesthouse offers a unique experience. The farmhouse boasts stunning views of the valley along with a peaceful atmosphere. You can walk through the vibrant gardens or take in the beautiful surroundings. The property also offers delicious traditional Honduran meals.
4. Las Sepulturas - These ruins are not as well-known as the Copán Archaeological Site but no less impressive. Las Sepulturas hosts over 50 unexcavated tombs, which are buried under Mesoamerican pyramids. You can take a guided tour of the site to learn about the fascinating culture of Copán.
5. Copan Sculpture Museum - situated in the old colonial city of Copán, this museum hosts a charming collection of wooden objects from the region. The museum also includes a few original stelae, as well as recreations of various other features found on the Copán ruins.
6. Copán Municipal Market - this market offers an authentic glimpse of the Honduran lifestyle; it's packed with street food vendors and local craftspeople. You can shop for souvenirs and see how the locals interact with one another here honestly.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Honduras, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Copán Ruinas.

When to go on holiday to Copán Ruinas

The best time to visit Copán Ruinas, Honduras is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the ruins or hiking in the nearby mountains. The temperatures are also more moderate, ranging from the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27°C). However, do keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so prices for accommodations and activities may be higher. If you don't mind a bit more rain, the green season (May to November) can be a good time to visit as well. Just be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella!

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Copán Ruinas

There are different ways to get to Copán Ruinas: 1. By air: The closest major airport is San Pedro Sula, which is located around 3 hours away from Copán Ruinas. You can then take a domestic flight or a bus to Copán Ruinas.
2. By land: You can take a bus or a private car from San Pedro Sula or from other cities in Honduras like Tegucigalpa, La Ceiba, or Guatemala City.
3. By shuttle: Some travel agencies offer shuttle services from popular tourist destinations like Antigua (Guatemala), San Salvador (El Salvador), or Belize City (Belize).
Once you arrive in Copán Ruinas, you can explore the town on foot or by taxi. The main attraction is the Copán Archaeological Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Mayan ruins in Central America.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Copán Ruinas, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Copán Ruinas

Here are some typical foods of Copán Ruinas in Honduras: 1. Baleadas: This is a traditional Honduran dish consisting of a flour tortilla stuffed with refried beans, cheese, and sometimes avocado and meat.
2. Sopa de Mondongo: A soup made with tripe, vegetables, and spices. It is a hearty dish and often served as a hangover cure.
3. Pupusas: Flatbreads made from cornmeal, cheese and sometimes beans, meat, or veggies. They are usually served with a tomato sauce and pickled cabbage.
4. Plátanos Maduros: Fried, ripe plantains that are sweet and caramelized on the outside and soft on the inside.
5. Enchiladas: A type of Honduran fried tortilla filled with beef or chicken, then topped with a tomato-based sauce, cheese, and pickled onions.
6. Carne Asada: Grilled beef that is usually marinated in spices and citrus juices for enhanced flavor.
7. Tamales: A traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (a starchy dough made from corn) that wrapped around a mixture of rice, meat, and spices, then steamed in a corn husk.
8. Rondon: A seafood stew made with coconut milk, plantains, yucca, and fish. It is a savory dish full of flavor.
You can find general info about typical foods in Honduras here.

Is Copán Ruinas an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations in Honduras, Copán Ruinas can be considered a bit more expensive. However, it really depends on your budget and your travel style. Accommodation prices vary depending on the time of year and the quality of the lodging you choose. There are some budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses available, but there are also some more luxurious options that can be quite pricey. Eating out can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you stick to local eateries. However, if you prefer more upscale restaurants, you'll see an increase in prices. There are also entrance fees to consider if you plan on visiting the Copán Ruins themselves. The entrance fee as of 2021 is 15 USD for foreigners. Overall, while it can be more expensive than some other areas of Honduras, Copán Ruinas is still quite affordable in comparison to other popular tourist destinations around the world.

Where to find accomodation in Copán Ruinas

In Copán Ruinas, the best areas to find accommodation are the city center, Las Sepulturas Archaeological Park, and the surrounding communities of El Jaral and San Juan. The city center offers a variety of lodging options, such as hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts, and is within walking distance of the main attractions, restaurants, and shops. Las Sepulturas Archaeological Park has a few lodges and cabins where visitors can enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by nature. El Jaral and San Juan, which are located a few kilometers from the city center, offer a more rural atmosphere, with some rustic lodgings that highlight the beauty and simplicity of the countryside.
You can check hotel prices at Copán Ruinas here:
Booking.com

Is Copán Ruinas a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Copán Ruinas is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, it's important to exercise caution and take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not flaunting valuables, and not walking alone at night. It's always a good idea to do some research and stay up-to-date on local news and travel advisories before planning a trip to any destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Honduras here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Copán Ruinas.

What type of travelers will enjoy Copán Ruinas the most?

Copán Ruinas is a great location for a variety of travelers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so history buffs and culture seekers will love exploring the ancient Maya ruins. The town itself is also charming and picturesque, with unique shops and cafes to explore. Families with children will also enjoy the area, as there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding, and the ruins are a fun and educational experience for kids. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the town and the chance to enjoy a quiet evening stroll by the candlelit streets. Lastly, young people looking for adventure and fun will enjoy the many options available in the surrounding area, including backpacking, mountain biking, and ziplining.

How to get around Copán Ruinas

The best way to move around Copán Ruinas is to walk since most of the main attractions are within a short distance from each other and the town is relatively small. Taxis are available in case you want to travel further or if you do not want to walk. Buses and shuttles are also common for tourists who want to explore other nearby towns or cities. Bicycles and motorcycles can also be rented if you want to have a more adventurous way of exploring the area.

What to see around Copán Ruinas

Sure, here are some great day trip destinations around Copán Ruinas: 1. Macaw Mountain Bird Park & Nature Reserve 2. Finca el Cisne Hot Springs 3. Los Sapos Mayan Archaeological Site 4. San Rafael Waterfall & Natural Pools 5. Copán Sculpture Museum (in Copán town itself) 6. Luna Jaguar Hot Springs 7. Las Sepulturas Archaeological Site 8. El Boquerón National Park 9. Hacienda San Lucas 10. Santa Rita Archaeological Site These are just a few options, there are plenty of other beautiful places to visit in Copán and its surroundings.
For every travel information about Honduras you can click here.

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