The Top Sites to Visit in Honduras

Although a small country, Honduras has a huge diversity. Planning the perfect vacation in Honduras can be tricky if you do not have much time. In my opinion, the top sites to visit in Honduras are the following:

Copan Ruinas

The Copan Archaeological Park is in a lovely valley in Western Honduras. Many travelers come into Honduras using the El Florido Border with Guatemala. The border is only 12 kilometers (8 miles) from Copan. The town is a charming rural town in Honduras, one of the nicest in Central America. Besides to the Mayan Archaeological site of Copan, there are many different activities to enjoy in Copan. Four different museums will enhance your knowledge of the ancient Maya.

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The nearby Macaw Mountain Bird Park is an absolute must. As a matter of fact, it warrants a visit to Copan on its own! This is the nicest bird park in Central America, they are also the leaders that have facilitated the return of the Scarlet Macaws to the Copan Valley. These unique birds are now seen flying freely around the archaeological park and the valley itself. They are a sight to see and enjoy! You should plan on at least two full days in Copan, which means spending 3 nights there.

The Bay Islands of Honduras

Honduras is the only Central American country to have a small archipelago on the Caribbean that is developed for tourism. The islands are on the southernmost end of the great Meso American Reef. This reef is considered the most bio diverse barrier reef in the World. There are three main islands: Roatan, Utila and Guanaja. Roatan is the largest and easiest to get to. It boasts the best beaches in Central America and outstanding diving. Utila has carved a name for itself as the most affordable place in the world to get scuba certified. Guanaja is a gem that is only now being discovered. It offers relaxed dive resorts, lovely beaches and great reefs to dive in.

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You will find the perfect place to stay in the Bay Islands of Honduras. Regardless of your budget and interests, there is something for everyone. Best of all, as an old English colony, English is the preferred language in the Bay Islands. These islands are without doubt one of the top sites to visit in Honduras. You should be aware that the three main islands are completely different between them. Plan on at least 3 days in either one of them.

Until recently, traveling between the islands was quite complicated.  Fortunately, Utila Dream Ferry now offers service between Roatan and Utila three times a week on the weekends. (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)

Pico Bonito / Cangrejal River Valley

The city of La Ceiba is the connecting point between the above two mentioned top sites to visit in Honduras. Many consider La Ceiba a place to get off the bus and transfer into the ferry to the islands of Roatan and Utila. Most are not aware that one of the top sites to visit in Honduras is just 5 miles south of La Ceiba. I am referring to the Pico Bonito / Cangrejal River Valley area.

If you come through La Ceiba and miss visiting this area, you are making a BIG mistake. The Cangrejal River is the natural border between Pico Bonito National Park and Nombre de Dios National Park. There you will find trails that will lead you to hidden waterfalls in the jungle. You will also be able to navigate through the turbulent white water rapids of the Cangrejal River. This challenging river will provide an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.

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There are several different lodges to stay in the Pico Bonito / Cangrejal River Valley area. Each one is unique, and there is one that will fit your budget. Try the Award Winning La Villa de Soledad B&B. It is a Spanish Hacienda style architecture blends seamlessly to the outdoors. It also offers the perfect spot for birdwatching.  You should allow at least two days for your visit to the Pico Bonito / Cangrejal River Valley.

Whatever you do during when planning your vacation, make sure in include the top sites to visit in Honduras. You will be amazed at the diversity that Honduras has to offer.