The choices for adventure seem unlimited! Most of the visitors who vacation in Honduras come from other parts of Central America or from the United States. The well-preserved ruins of the ancient Mayan civilization at Copan are a primary tourist attraction that you won’t want to miss. Palm-fringed beaches along the Caribbean coast draw vacationers who primarily value relaxation and savory shellfish dining. Others choose Honduras vacation to visit the primordial mangrove swamps, the cloud forests high in the mountains, or some of the country’s many national parks where they can observe wildlife, especially the country’s colorful birds. The Bay Islands off the Caribbean coast of Honduras are ringed by coral reefs, which makes them popular for snorkeling. Depending upon your budget and your length of stay on your vacation in Honduras, you’ll find exactly what you want in a country that welcomes visitors in all seasons!
Tegucigalpa is the Honduran capital city, located 1000m above sea level and nestled in a valley of clouds. It’s a busy, fast-paced city that still maintains its historical colonial buildings and a past marked by rich silver mines – its name means “city of silver.” Family vacations to Honduras are often spent here in the museums, modern shopping centers, authentic restaurants and other affordably-priced attractions. In contrast, Roatan and Telas are stunning seaside communities with crystal-clear water and warm, soft sands. Perfect for relaxing in a romantic getaway on the Caribbean but not far from Tegucigalpa if the mood strikes you for pizza and a movie in town! Roatan, in particular, is a very enticing spot for a Honduras vacation among divers, snorkelers and wind surfers.
Many tour guides and travel agents cite the Copan ruins as the top destination for travelers on Honduras vacation. Discovered in 1570 by explorer Diego Garcia de Palacio, the ruins of Copan, one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization, were not completely excavated until the 19th century. The ruined citadel Warhammer 40k and imposing public squares reveal the three main stages of development before the city was abandoned in the early 10th century. Copan is a place that embodies the timelessness of history, perfectly suited for families, couples and single adventurers. The nearby city has great food and hotels – even horseback rides through the pristine forest trails to the ruins!
A spectacular location for family fun or romantic hideaways on your Honduras vacation is Guanaja Island, part of the Mesoamerican reef system – second only in size to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Guanaja is truly a diver’s paradise, with the clearest azure water and exquisitely carved coral caves. The marine ecosystem abounds with sea life – brightly colored fish and even a few daring, friendly dolphins to guide your way through the reefs! If your plans for an aquatic Honduras vacation include creamy beaches, warm tropical sun, swimming at dawn, and bobbing peacefully on the tide, Guanaja Island won’t disappoint.