If you are visiting Copan Ruinas, it may seem like there are only a few attractions and activities to do in this quaint town. However I am here to tell you there is a whole lot more than that with this list of the 24 best things to do in Copan Ruinas.
Copan Ruinas is a charming town in western Honduras that is famous for its ancient Maya ruins and its colorful culture. Though there are more than just ruins in this special town which is why I am letting you know the best things to do in Copan Ruinas.
It is a perfect destination for anyone who loves history, nature, and adventure. I mean there is good reason why thousands of tourists flock here every year to admire the beauty in the quaint Honduran town.
Whether you want to explore the impressive archaeological site of Copan, admire the beautiful macaws at the Macaw Mountain Bird Park, relax at the Luna Jaguar Spa Hot Springs, learn about the local tea and chocolate production, or shop for souvenirs at the weekend market, and more.
You will find all these, and how exactly to do them on my list of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas.
Think foodie spots, incredible ruins, nature walks, and of course a couple of lowkey activities. This list of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas will allow you to have an epic time here.
The 24 Best Things To Do In Copan Ruinas, Honduras
- Visit The Copan Ruins
- Sculpture Museum To See The Maya Civilization Remains
- Visit Las Sepulturas Archeological Site
- See Macaws At Macaw Mountain
- Try Some Cheap Local Food At Comedor Mary
- Take A Dip At Luna Jaguar Spa Hot Springs
- Discover The Tea And Chocolate Place
- Explore A Coffee Farm At Finca El Cisne
- Taste German Beer At Sol De Copan
- Shop For Souvenirs At The Weekend Market
- Zipline Through The Jungle At Canopy Zipline Tour
- Go Horseback Riding Through The Countryside
- Visit Cafe San Rafael
- Check Out Casa K’inich Museum
- Discover More Ruins At Rastrojon Archeological Site
- Hike The Surrounding Area
- Swim At The Camino Maya Pool
- Relax With A Massage
- Chill At Central Park
- Visit The Rio Amarillo Archeological Site
- Venture To El Puente Archeological Site
- Walk Up To The Old Fort
- Walk The Nature Trail At The Main Archeological Site
- Hang Out At Copan’s Vegetable & Fruit Market
Visit The Copan Ruins
If you want a unique and unforgettable experience in Central America, you should visit the Copan Mayan Ruins in Honduras. This is one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas and it’s easy to see why.
Copan was one of the most important and influential cities of the ancient Maya civilization, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the rich history and culture of these fascinating people.
The park contains the remains of temples, palaces, plazas, altars, stelae, ball courts, and hieroglyphic stairways that testify to the artistic and intellectual achievements of the Maya.
One of the highlights is the Acropolis, a massive complex of buildings that served as the royal residence and administrative center of Copan. The Acropolis consists of two main plazas: the West Court and the East Court.
Another highlight of the park is the Great Plaza, a large open space that was used for ceremonies and public events. Copan Ruins also contain other interesting areas, such as the Ball Court, where the Maya played a ritual game with a rubber ball; and the Cemetery, where many burials and offerings were found.
Opening Hours: The Copan Mayan Ruins are open every day of the year, rain or shine, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Avenida Mirador Casa #2, Copan Ruinas CP1103 Honduras
Entry Fee: To visit the Copan Mayan ruins, you need to pay a main entry fee of $15, which includes the entrance to Copan and Las Sepulturas. This fee also allows you to access the Museum of Sculpture, which displays replicas and originals of the sculptures found at the site.
Sculpture Museum To See The Maya Civilization Remains
If you are planning to visit the Copan Mayan ruins in Honduras, you should not miss the Sculpture Museum, which is located next to the archaeological park.
The museum houses a collection of original and replica sculptures that were found in the ruins. It offers a glimpse into the artistic and cultural diversity of the ancient Maya and is one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas.
The museum is designed to resemble a Maya temple, with a red facade and a tunnel-like entrance that leads to a circular courtyard. Inside, you can admire the sculptures that are displayed in thematic sections, such as the Royal Court, the Ancestors, the Gods, and the Animals.
The sculptures range from small figurines to large stelae, and they showcase the intricate craftsmanship and symbolism of the Maya.
One of the most impressive exhibits is the replica of the Rosalila Temple, which is a faithful reconstruction of an original temple that was buried under another structure in the Acropolis.
The Rosalila Temple is a masterpiece of Maya architecture and art, with vivid colors and elaborate carvings that depict the cosmology and mythology of the Maya.
Opening Hours: The museum is open from 8 am to 4 pm every day
Location: Avenida Mirador Casa #2, Copan Ruinas CP1103 Honduras
Entry Fee: This is included in your main entry fee of $15, which includes the entrance to Copan, Las Sepulturas, and the Museum of Sculpture.
Visit Las Sepulturas Archeological Site
One km beyond the main site, on the right side of the main road you will find Las Sepultuas Archeological Site, another one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas.
Las Sepulturas was a residential area for the nobility and the high-ranking officials of the Copan kingdom, and it contains many houses and tombs that date back to the Classic period (250-900 AD).
Visiting Las Sepulturas allows for a glimpse into the daily life and customs of the ancient Maya.
You are able to see how they built their homes around courtyards and gardens, and decorated them with altars and sculptures, how they managed their water supply and drainage, and how they buried their dead.
You will also learn a lot about the history and culture of the Copan civilization. Such as that Las Sepulturas was not only a residential area, but also a political and ceremonial center.
The inhabitants of Las Sepulturas also had different social classes and hierarchies, they participated in rituals and ceremonies to honor their ancestors and gods, and they were involved in wars and alliances with other Maya cities.
Las Sepulturas Archeological Site was a fascinating and educational experience that complemented my visit to the Copan Mayan ruins. I recommend it to anyone who wants to explore more of the Maya world and its legacy.
Opening Hours: Las Sepulturas is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day
Location: RVR7+MR7, CA 11, Copán Ruinas, Honduras
Entry Fee: This is included in your main entry fee of $15, which includes the entrance to Copan, Las Sepulturas, and the Museum of Sculpture.
See Macaws At Macaw Mountain
If you are looking for a bird lover’s paradise, look no further than Macaw Mountain. This park is not only a sanctuary for hundreds of rescued birds but also a place where you can get up close and personal with them. This was a personal favorite of my visit, and for me, the best thing to do in Copan Ruinas.
Many of these birds were saved from illegal trade or poor conditions, and the park staff take great care of them and provide them with a natural and comfortable environment.
One of the most impressive things about Macaw Mountain is its conservation work. The staff there are dedicated to protecting the native habitat of these birds and to reintroducing some of them to the wild, especially the endangered scarlet macaws.
These magnificent birds are the national symbol of Honduras, but they are also threatened by habitat loss and poaching. The park has successfully released several pairs of scarlet macaws into the nearby Copan Ruinas archaeological site, where they can be seen flying over the ancient Mayan ruins.
Another highlight of visiting Macaw Mountain is the walk through the forest with tropical flowers and coffee plants. The park is located on a former coffee plantation, and they still grow and produce their own organic coffee.
Opening Hours: The park is open every day of the year, rain or shine, from 9 am to 5 pm.
Location: 2 Km al Norte del Parque Central, Copan Ruinas 00504, Honduras
Entry Fee: The entry fee to Macaw Mountain is L240 / $10.00 for adults and children aged 11 and up. Children between the ages of 4 to 10 pay an entrance fee of L120 / $5.00.
Try Some Cheap Local Food At Comedor Mary
One of the best places to eat in Copan Ruinas is Comedor Mary, a family-run restaurant that serves delicious Salvadoran and Honduran dishes. Here you will find inexpensive local food.
The specialty of the house is pupusas, thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, pork, or other ingredients. They are served with a tangy cabbage salad and a spicy tomato sauce. You can also try other dishes like soups, grilled meats, salads, and desserts. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable.
The restaurant is located near the central park, in front of the soccer field. It has a cozy and friendly atmosphere, with colorful decorations. The service is attentive and courteous. Comedor Mary is a great option for a satisfying and authentic meal in Copan Ruinas.
Opening Hours: 7 am to 9 pm 7 days a week
Location: Barrio El Centro, 2 1/2 Cuadra al norte del Parque Central Frente al Campo de Futbol, Copan Ruinas Honduras
Take A Dip At Luna Jaguar Spa Hot Springs
Luna Jaguar Spa Hot Springs is a natural spa that was built in 2008 by a local family who wanted to share the healing properties of the hot springs with visitors. The spa has Mayan-inspired architecture, with stone structures, wooden bridges, and thatched roofs.
It is located about 22 km from Copan Ruinas, in a protected reserve of hot and cold springs that originate from volcanic activity. The spa has 13 pools with different temperatures and minerals, ranging from 35°C to 50°C. Some of the pools have waterfalls, jets, or bubbles, while others are more calm and serene.
They also offer massages, mud facials, and other treatments that use natural products from the area. You can relax in the warm water and enjoy the soothing effects on your body and mind, surrounded by a lush forest and a tranquil atmosphere.
The spa also has a restaurant and a gift shop, where you can taste some local dishes and buy some souvenirs.
Opening Hours: 2 pm to 9 pm, Tuesday To Sunday. Closed Mondays.
Location: XVR8+QHR, Agua Caliente, Honduras
How To Get There: The best way is using Via Via Copan which offers a shuttle bus there at 1 p.m. and you’ll be back at your hotel at 6 p.m. The price is $22.00 and you won’t need to worry about anything as it includes your entrance in both areas and the transport.
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Discover The Tea And Chocolate Place
One of the most unique and enjoyable experiences for the best things to do in Copan Ruinas is the Tea & Chocolate Place, also known as Mayan Harvest.
This is a small family-run business that offers a hands-on workshop where you can learn how to make your own chocolate and tea from organic cacao and herbs grown in their own garden. You can also taste their products and buy some to take home.
The tea & chocolate place is a fun and educational activity for all ages and tastes. It is also a great way to support a local family that is passionate about preserving and sharing their ancestral knowledge and traditions.
You can book your workshop online or by phone, or just walk in if they have availability. The workshop lasts about two hours and costs 15 USD per person.
Though you can also head there to visit the giftshop and grab a cold drink. It is a lovely setting overlooking the jungle and a beautiful place to spend an hour.
Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week from 2 pm to 6 pm
Location: Calle Yaruga, Copan Ruinas 00000, Honduras
Explore A Coffee Farm At Finca El Cisne
Finca El Cisne is a coffee, cardamom, and cattle farm that offers agrotourism and lodging near Copan Ruinas. The farm has been owned by the same family for over a century, and they welcome visitors to experience their traditional way of life and their delicious food.
You can take a tour of the farm on horseback or by car, and see how they grow and process coffee, cardamom, cacao, and other crops. Also, you can also learn about their cattle ranching and their conservation efforts.
They offer a typical lunch or dinner made with fresh ingredients from the farm, such as beef, cheese, tortillas, beans, and vegetables.
You can also stay overnight in their cozy guesthouse, which has four rooms with private bathrooms and hot water. Finca El Cisne is a great place to enjoy nature, culture, and hospitality in Copan Ruinas.
if you are interested in visiting you can contact ViaVia Copan who offer half-day and overnight trips.
Taste German Beer At Sol De Copan
Another of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas is to visit a German restaurant and brewery called Sol De Copan. Here you can enjoy a taste of Germany in Honduras.
The restaurant serves authentic German dishes, such as sausages, schnitzels, sauerkraut, and pretzels, as well as local and international cuisine. The brewery produces four types of beer: lager, weizen, dunkel, and bock, using natural ingredients and traditional methods.
You can sample the beers in the cozy bar or in the outdoor terrace, and learn about the brewing process from the friendly staff.
Sol De Copan is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the delicious food, the refreshing beer, and the welcoming atmosphere.
Opening Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday 4 pm to 10 pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
Location: Calle Yaruga, Copan Ruinas 00000, Honduras
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Shop For Souvenirs At The Weekend Market
One of the most lively and colorful places to visit in Copan Ruinas is the weekend market, where you can find a variety of local products and handicrafts. The market is held every Saturday and Sunday in the central park, near the cathedral.
Browse through the stalls and shops that sell fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, coffee, honey, spices, flowers, and more. You can also admire the beautiful textiles, pottery, woodcarvings, jewelry, and souvenirs that are made by local artisans.
The market is a great place to mingle with the locals and learn about their culture and traditions. You can also enjoy some delicious street food, such as pupusas, baleadas, tamales, and corn on the cob.
Some of the souvenirs that can be bought at the weekend market in Copan Ruinas are:
Textiles: You can find beautiful textiles made by local artisans, such as scarves, shawls, tablecloths, napkins, and bags. They have colorful patterns and designs inspired by the Mayan culture and nature.
Pottery: You can find pottery made by the Lenca people, an indigenous group that lives in Honduras and El Salvador. They make pots, bowls, plates, and vases with a distinctive black-and-white geometric style.
Woodcarvings: You can find woodcarvings made by local craftsmen, such as masks, animals, chess sets, and religious figures. They use different types of wood and carve them with skill and detail.
Jewelry: You can find jewelry made with silver, jade, amber, coral, and other materials. They have earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings with various shapes and motifs.
Corn husk dolls: You can find corn husk dolls made by children from the village of La Pintada. They use corn husks, thread, and fabric to make cute dolls that represent different characters and professions.
Zipline Through The Jungle At Canopy Zipline Tour
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush and a spectacular view of the jungle, you should try the Canopy Zipline Tour in Copan Ruinas. This is one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas and offers you the opportunity to glide through the treetops on 16 cables that span over 4 km.
You will experience different speeds, heights, and distances as you fly over rivers, waterfalls, and valleys. You will also see a variety of birds and animals that live in the forest, such as toucans, macaws, monkeys, and coatis.
It is safe and fun for all ages, and the guides are professional and friendly. They will provide you with all the equipment and instructions you need, as well as transportation from Copan Ruinas to the zipline site.
The tour lasts about 2 hours and costs $45 per person. You can also combine it with a visit to Macaw Mountain Bird Park & Nature Reserve, which is included in the price. The Canopy Zipline Tour is a thrilling and unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of Copan Ruinas.
Opening Hours: 9 am to 5 pm seven days a week
Price: $45.00 including transport. You are best to book this through your accommodation in Copan Ruinas.
Go Horseback Riding Through The Countryside
Horseback Riding in Copan Ruinas is a fun and adventurous way to explore the countryside and the culture of this region. You can choose from different tours that take you to different places, such as coffee and cardamom farms, hot springs, waterfalls, and Mayan ruins.
Ride on well-trained and friendly horses that are suitable for all levels of riders, from beginners to experts. You can enjoy the scenic views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers, as well as the wildlife and plants that inhabit them.
If you are interested you can book with Via Via Copan which costs $15.00 for 3 hours. You will have a charismatic Spanish-speaking guide who will show you some incredible sights, through rivers and mountains. You will take a little break in La Pintada, which is a Maya village up in the mountains.
Visit Cafe San Rafael
You could find me here every day so of course I have to add it to my best things to do in Copan Ruinas list. Cafe San Rafael is a family-owned business that produces and sells coffee, cheese, and other products from their farm near Copan Ruinas.
The cafe is located in the heart of the town, on Ave. Centro America, and offers a cozy and elegant atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of drinks and dishes. You can taste their farmstead coffee, which is grown and roasted on-site, and has a rich and smooth flavor.
You can also try their specialty cheeses, which are made with fresh milk from their cows, and have different textures and tastes. You can order a cheese platter with bread, jam, and nuts, or a sandwich with cheese, avocado, and ham.
The cafe also serves salads, soups, desserts, and wine. Cafe San Rafael is a place where you can appreciate the quality and freshness of the local products, as well as the passion and dedication of the owners. Cafe San Rafael is a must-visit for any foodie in Copan Ruinas.
Opening Hours: Open 8 am to 8 pm every day of the week
Location: Edificio San Rafael Ave. Centro America, Copán Ruinas 41041, Honduras
Check Out Casa K’inich Museum
Casa K’inich Museum is a museum dedicated to the education and preservation of the Mayan culture and history in Copan Ruinas. The museum is located in Fuerte Cabañas, a former military fort that overlooks the town and has a spectacular view.
You can find interactive displays and exhibits that teach visitors about the Mayan civilization, especially the Copan dynasty that ruled from the 5th to the 9th century AD.
Learn about the kings and queens of Copan, their achievements, their rituals, their art, and their writing. You can also see replicas of stelae, sculptures, ceramics, and other artifacts that were found at the archaeological site.
The museum is fun and informative for all ages, and it is a great way to prepare for or complement your visit to the ruins. Casa K’inich Museum is open from Wednesday to Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The entrance fee is L30 per person.
Opening Hours: Open Wednesday to Saturday 8.30 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 5 pm
Location: RRVV+4FG, C. 18 Conejo, Copán Ruinas, Honduras
Entry Fee: 30L / $1.22 per person
Discover More Ruins At Rastrojon Archeological Site
Another of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas is to visit the Rastrojon ruins. The Rastrojon Archeological Ruins is a Maya site that was built by the 12th king of Copan, Chan Imix K’awiil, in the 7th century AD. It is located on a hilltop near the Clarion Hotel, about 2 km from the main ruins of Copan.
The site was partially destroyed by an earthquake and a landslide sometime after 800 AD and was abandoned until its rediscovery in 1979. Since then it has been excavated and restored by a team of archaeologists from Harvard University and the Honduran Institute of Anthropology and History since 2007.
It consists of several structures, such as temples, palaces, altars, and stelae, that reflect the political and religious power of the Copan dynasty. The site also has some unique features, such as a ball court, a water reservoir, and a tunnel. From it you have a stunning view of the valley and the town of Copan Ruinas.
Location: VV49+J9V, C. Acceso al Hotel Clarion, Copán Ruinas, Honduras
Entry Fee: 75L / $3.00 per person
Hike The Surrounding Area
If you are wanting to venture into the countryside with your walking shoes, then don’t worry because this hike is one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas.
Basically, you will hike from the town of Copan Ruinas to Hacienda San Lucas, then the las Sapos Archeological Site, and then the Chorti Maya community of la Pintada. This hike takes you through different landscapes and offers you a chance to experience the natural and historical richness of this region.
It starts from the town of Copan Ruinas, where you will walk to the bridge over the Copan River. From there, you follow a dirt road that climbs up the hillside, passing by coffee plantations and corn fields.
After about an hour, you reach Hacienda San Lucas, a 100-year-old family-owned eco-lodge that overlooks the valley and the ruins of Copan.
You can stop here for a rest and a snack, or continue to the Las Sapos Archeological Site, which is about 15 minutes away. The Las Sapos Archeological Site is a small group of rocks carved with images of toads, which are associated with Maya fertility rites.
You can see dozens of these carvings among the stones, and enjoy the view of the forest and the river.
From here, you can continue to the Chorti Maya community of la Pintada, which is about 30 minutes away. La Pintada is a village where the descendants of the ancient Maya still live and preserve their traditions and customs. You can visit their houses made of corn husks, their school, and their church.
Interact with the friendly villagers and learn about their culture and history. The hike ends here, where you can take a moto taxi back to Copan Ruinas or walk back along the same route, stopping back at Hacienda San Lucas for a meal or drink.
It costs 30L / $1.22 per person to enter Hacienda San Lucas if you are not a guest staying here.
Swim At The Camino Maya Pool
If you are looking for a relaxing time, you might want to consider visiting the Camino Maya Pool, another one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas. This pool is part of the Hotel Camino Maya, a charming and cozy hotel located right on the corner of the main square of the town.
You will find the pool a short walk away from the hotel, in a secluded and tranquil area surrounded by nature. The pool is open to hotel guests and visitors, who can enjoy a dip in the clear water or lounge on the sunbeds. You will also find a bar and a restaurant that serves delicious Latin American cuisine.
Alternatively, you can also visit the pool at Hotel Clarion when you purchase a meal at their restaurant.
Relax With A Massage
After a busy day out in the heat and walking those cobblestone streets it’s time to relax. The town is also home to many excellent massage spas that offer relaxing and rejuvenating experiences to visitors.
Copán Spa, with its peaceful atmosphere, is a popular choice for visitors. The spa offers a range of treatments, including hot stone and Swedish massages.
Another top-rated massage location is Yat Balam. They offer massages that incorporate traditional Mayan techniques, adding a unique cultural element to the experience. The facility also boasts a beautiful garden area for relaxation before and after your treatment.
For those seeking a more affordable option, consider La Teresita. This small and cozy spa offers basic yet effective massages, with prices ranging from $15-$30. Despite its lower prices, La Teresita’s services receive consistently positive ratings.
Chill At Central Park
If you are looking for a chill place to simply relax and sit with your thoughts for a bit there is no better place than Central Park. Whether you decide to have a picnic here, check out some of the locals selling souvenirs or fruit or simply just people-watch.
It is surrounded by colonial buildings, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and hotels. The park is a great place to relax, enjoy the fresh air, watch the locals and tourists mingle, and admire the sculptures and monuments that adorn it.
One of the most notable features is the clock tower, which was built in 1930 and has a distinctive red color.
The park also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Copan Carnival in February and the Mayan Culture Festival in July.
This may seem a bit underwhelming compared to other things like ziplining, but if you are traveling on a budget this is one of the best things to do in Copan Ruinas that is free.
Location: Calle 18 Canejo, Copan Ruinas
Visit The Rio Amarillo Archeological Site
If you are looking for a less crowded and more adventurous alternative to the Copan Ruins, you might want to visit the Rio Amarillo Archeological Site. This site is located about 20 km northwest of Copan Ruinas, in the municipality of Santa Rita.
It is one of the largest and most important satellite cities of the Copan kingdom, dating back to the Classic and Postclassic periods of the Maya civilization. The site has 53 structures, including pyramids, plazas, terraces, altars, and stelae.
Some of them are still partially buried or covered by vegetation with nature having reclaimed its land. You can also find impressive stucco masks and hieroglyphs that reveal the history and culture of the ancient inhabitants.
The site is surrounded by a lush forest and a scenic river, adding to its natural beauty and charm. To get to the Rio Amarillo Archeological Site from Copan Ruinas, you can take a bus or a taxi to Santa Rita, and then hire a local guide or a moto-taxi to take you to the site. You will want to set aside at least 2 hours to explore it.
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. You can also bring some snacks and water, as there are no facilities at here.
Opening Hours: The museum is open from 8 am to 4 pm every day
Location: Santa Rita
Entry Fee: $10 USD per person, and it includes access to a small museum that displays some artifacts
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Venture To El Puente Archeological Site
Our last fascinating Maya archaeological site that you can visit from Copan Ruinas is El Puente. This site is located about 60 km northeast of Copan Ruinas, in the department of Copan.
It was once an independent Maya city that became a tributary to Copan between the 6th and 9th centuries AD. The site has more than 200 structures, including tombs, religious structures, and living quarters, but only a few have been excavated, such as a large Maya step pyramid.
The main structure (E1) is 12 meters high and has small visiting tunnels inside.
It is surrounded by a beautiful landscape of hills and forests, and it is less crowded than the Copan Ruins. To visit El Puente Archaeological Site from Copan Ruinas, you can book a tour with Trifinio Tours, which lasts 4 hours and includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and your entrance ticket.
The rate is $50 per person (minimum of 2 people). Alternatively, you can take a bus or a taxi to La Entrada, and then a taxi to El Florido. From there, you can hire a local guide or a moto-taxi to take you to the site.
Location: El Florido
Entry Fee: $5 USD per person, and it includes access to a small museum that displays artifacts
Walk Up To The Old Fort
The old fort in Copan Ruinas is a historical landmark that dates back to the colonial era. It is located on a hill overlooking the town and the valley and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
The fort was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the town from attacks by pirates and indigenous rebels. It was also used as a prison and a barracks for soldiers. The fort has a rectangular shape with four bastions at the corners and a central courtyard.
To visit the old fort in Copan Ruinas, you can walk up the hill from the town center, which takes about 20 minutes. You can explore the fort on your own or hire a local guide who can tell you more about its history and significance.
Entry Fee: The entrance fee is 10L / $0.40 per person
Walk The Nature Trail At The Main Archeological Site
The nature trail at Copan ruins is a free jungle trail that connects the main archaeological site with the Rastrojón site, a recently excavated complex that was once a fortified palace and temple. The trail is about 2.3 km long and takes about an hour to walk.
You can enter the trail from either end, but it is recommended to start from the Rastrojón site, which is located on a hill across the river from the main site. You can reach the Rastrojón site by taking a taxi or a tuk-tuk from the town of Copan Ruinas, which costs around 50L / $2 one way.
On the trail, you can enjoy the views of the river and the valley, and spot some wildlife such as agoutis, monkeys, birds and butterflies. You can also see some remains of Maya structures, such as a ball court, a bridge, and a tunnel. The trail is well-marked and has informative signs along the way.
Entry Fee: Included in the admission to the main site, the Copan Ruins
Hang Out At Copan’s Vegetable & Fruit Market
Copan’s Vegetable & Fruit Market is a local market that sells fresh produce and groceries. It is located on the main street, near the central park and the church. It is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm, but the best time to visit is on Sunday, when the market is at its busiest and most colorful.
At Copan’s Vegetable & Fruit Market, you can find a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, pineapples, mangoes, papayas, avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, onions, potatoes, and more.
You can also buy eggs, cheese, bread, tortillas, beans, rice, coffee, and other staples. The prices are reasonable and the quality is good. You can also bargain with the vendors for a better deal.
Where To Stay In Copan Ruinas
Copan Ruinas is a super quaint and just chill town. There are a few accommodation options here, but you won’t find a lot compared to Guatemala.
Honestly, I think of it being because travelers have two options to take, either El Salvador, or Honduras, and because of safety concerns they tend to choose the other option. Though you will be glad you chose Honduras because it’s an absolutely incredible country.
One thing to be aware of is Copan Ruinas does lack hostel options, though this doesn’t mean you won’t find other backpackers here. This is a super popular spot with budget travelers and you will find plenty of affordable guesthouse and accommodation options.
Personally, I stayed at Hostel Iguana Azul which is the only hostel option with a dorm room, but I did book in the private rooms which are equally as affordable. We had a shared bathroom and it was fan-cooled. Facilities were on the basic side, but for the price point, this was an excellent choice.
My favorite choice for an affordable option. Dorm rooms start from $12.00 per night and private $22.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Another affordable choice close to the town center. Private rooms start from $21.00 per night with a shared bathroom. BOOK NOW |
La Casa de Cafe Bed And Breakfast This is the fancy sister property of Iguana Azul. It’s super nice and rooms start from $70.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
A little bit more pricey but there is a small pool. Dorms start at $18.00 per night and privates $30.00 BOOK NOW |
The Best Things To Do In Copan Ruinas List
- Visit The Copan Ruins
- Sculpture Museum To See The Maya Civilization Remains
- Visit Las Sepulturas Archeological Site
- See Macaws At Macaw Mountain
- Try Some Cheap Local Food At Comedor Mary
- Take A Dip At Luna Jaguar Spa Hot Springs
- Discover The Tea And Chocolate Place
- Explore A Coffee Farm At Finca El Cisne
- Taste German Beer At Sol De Copan
- Shop For Souvenirs At The Weekend Market
- Zipline Through The Jungle At Canopy Zipline Tour
- Go Horseback Riding Through The Countryside
- Visit Cafe San Rafael
- Check Out Casa K’inich Museum
- Discover More Ruins At Rastrojon Archeological Site
- Hike The Surrounding Area
- Swim At The Camino Maya Pool
- Relax With A Massage
- Chill At Central Park
- Visit The Rio Amarillo Archeological Site
- Venture To El Puente Archeological Site
- Walk Up To The Old Fort
- Walk The Nature Trail At The Main Archeological Site
- Hang Out At Copan’s Vegetable & Fruit Market
LIKE IT? PIN IT!
Want more Honduras Inspiration? Check out….
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.
Photo credit: “Copán Ruinas, Honduras” (CC BY 2.0) by Maximiliano Dobladez.“Copan Ruinas” (CC BY 2.0) by Beth and Anth. “A plaza” (CC BY 2.0) by John Donaghy.
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