Located in Central America and possessing both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Honduras is famous as the land where the Maya civilization flourished. Many Maya-related attractions, such as the Copán Ruins, draw tourists here. In addition, on the Caribbean side there are many beautiful beaches and islands, and there are various tourist spots featuring both mountains and the sea. Yes, while cities have their own charm, the tourist attractions of Honduras lie in its natural environment!
This time, I will introduce six recommended tourist spots in nature-filled Honduras. Please use this as a reference when visiting Honduras on a Central American tour!
1. Copán Ruins
Among the many remnants of the Maya civilization, the Copán Ruins are uniquely situated in the southeastern part of the region, in western Honduras. Celebrated by Maya scholars for their exquisitely refined architecture, these ruins were also the site of a remarkable scientific achievement: as early as the 7th century, the Maya calculated a calendar year of 365.2420 days—nearly identical to our modern calendar.
At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by vibrant macaws, and the nearby town of Copán Ruinas, a popular base for exploring the ruins, welcomes numerous international visitors. With generally good security, you can feel at ease while exploring.
Designated a World Heritage Site, the Copán Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the deep and illustrious history of the Maya, where dynasties thrived between the 5th and 9th centuries.
Name: Copán Ruins
Address: Avenida Mirador calle 18 Conejo | City of Copán Ruinas, Copan 41209, Honduras
Official/Related Website URL: http://copanruinas.web.fc2.com/index.html
2. Roatán Island
Roatán Island, the largest of the Bay Islands in Honduras and nestled in the Caribbean Sea, is a favorite destination for many travelers. It lies within a coral reef region that is second only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, making it an ideal location for snorkeling and diving.
One of its many stunning beaches, West Bay, offers the opportunity to observe a myriad of tropical fish up close while snorkeling. Enjoy the dazzling sea and its charming marine life simultaneously.
Name: Roatán Island
Address: Roatán, Honduras
3. Valle de Ángeles
Located less than an hour by car from Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras, is Valle de Ángeles. Valle de Ángeles means “Valley of Angels” in Spanish, and true to its name, a colorful and cute townscape spreads out. Throughout the town, many shops selling handicrafts and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine line the streets.
Even though Honduras is located in tropical Central America, its high elevation allows you to stay relatively comfortably without feeling the intense heat. Why not refresh your energy for the latter part of your trip here during your tour of hot Honduras?
Name: Valle de Ángeles
Address: Valle de Ángeles, Honduras
4. Utila Island
Utila Island is a small island among the Bay Islands floating in the Caribbean Sea. It is famous as a resort destination, but is also known as a place where diving licenses can be obtained at very low prices, attracting many foreign tourists.
Moreover, not only are diving licenses inexpensive here, but the accommodations are also very affordable. It is a tourism spot where you can enjoy a resort stay on a budget while also obtaining your diving license—a win-win situation.
Name: Utila Island
Address: Utila, Honduras
5. Pico Bonito National Park
Leaving La Ceiba—Honduras’ third-largest city on the Caribbean coast—and heading into the mountains, you’ll discover Pico Bonito National Park. Here on an eco-trekking tour, you can spot vibrant tropical birds, fascinating insects, large dazzling butterflies, and iguanas!
This park is also a rare gem, as it serves as a habitat for jaguars.
Additionally, you can enjoy swimming near the rivers and waterfalls, so be sure to pack your swimsuit.
Name: Pico Bonito National Park
Location: La Ceiba, Honduras
6. Punta Sal National Park
About an hour and a half from San Pedro Sula, Honduras’ second-largest city, lies the beautiful Caribbean-facing town of Tela. The cape in its bay is none other than Punta Sal National Park! Here, during jungle trekking, you can observe many tropical birds unique to the region, and it is also famous for being home to a group of howler monkeys.
The untouched white-sand beaches scattered along the bay, lined not with hotels but with rows of palm trees, provide a relaxing escape for visitors. As there is no overland route to the cape, you will have to travel by boat, which is why the abundant natural beauty remains preserved.
Name: Punta Sal National Park
Address: Punta Sal, Honduras
◎Summary
What did you think? While Honduras may not yet be widely recognized as a top tourist spot, it is brimming with unique attractions. We also recommend exploring it in combination with neighboring countries like Guatemala and Costa Rica.