Copan Ruinas

Honduras, Central America

Nestled in the lush hills of western Honduras, Copan Ruinas is famed for its magnificent Mayan ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are mesmerized by the intricately carved stelae and the grandeur of the Acropolis, vibrant local culture, and charming cobblestone streets. Adventurous travelers can also explore nearby hot springs and lush surroundings, making it a rich blend of history, nature, and tradition that's perfect for a unique getaway.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

La Mesa

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Copan Ruinas

1

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Copán Ruinas Archaeological Site

Visit ancient Mayan ruins and stunning stone carvings.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Macaw Mountain Bird Park

See diverse bird species in a natural habitat.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Copán Sculpture Museum

Discover impressive Mayan sculptures and artifacts.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Los Sapos Waterfall

Enjoy a scenic hike to a stunning waterfall.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Copán Valley

Take in breathtaking views and lush scenery.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Traditional Mayan Ceremony

Experience cultural rituals and local traditions.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the town center and local markets

Explore vibrant markets and local artisan crafts.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in a local coffee shop

Taste local coffee in a cozy atmosphere.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-7 (#118 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Lempira

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Plato Típico

Traditional plate with rice and beans. (National dish)

Baleadas

V

Flour tortillas with beans and cheese.

Sopa de Caracol

Conch soup with coconut milk and spices.

Yuca con Chicharrón

Fried cassava served with pork cracklings.

Tapado Olanchano

Seafood stew with plantains and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)