5 de December de 2025

Expan Experience: The Treasures of Copán in Honduras

Located in the heart of the ancient Mayan civilization , Copán is one of the most fascinating archaeological treasures in Honduras and all of Central America . Its magnificently carved stelae , ceremonial temples , and hieroglyphic stairways tell the story of the grandeur of a city that was a center of power , art , and science .

Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites travelers and history lovers to delve into a past full of mystery , architectural beauty , and traditions that still resonate within the jungle that protects its ancient secrets .

These secrets were discovered by Denis Jamett , Head of Quality and Customer Service at Expan Tours , during his recent trip to Honduras . He shares his experience in this new edition of Expan Experience .

CATM 2025

This year, CATM 2025 chose Honduras as the official venue for the event that brings together tourism professionals, airlines, regional offices and operators seeking to strengthen the sector's commercial ties.

" This event, which includes Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama and the Dominican Republic as participants, aims to position and promote the tourism offerings of each participating country ."

In 2024 it was held in El Salvador and in 2026 the venue will be Guatemala , but in this edition it was Honduras that shone before the eyes of the world.

First impression of a tropical and authentic country

Honduras surprises from the very first moment with its tropical identity: noisy , at times chaotic and somewhat disorganized , yet possessing a charm that can be felt in every corner. The intense colors of the rainforest , the humid heat, and an atmosphere brimming with life combine to create a country where everything seems to grow and move without pause.

" Honduran people are always friendly, warm, and proud of their culture, happy to share their gastronomy, customs, and the history that defines them as a nation with visitors. That feeling of welcome makes anyone who arrives immediately feel like they belong ."

The journey began at San Pedro Sula International Airport , which, although not located in the capital, is the main air arrival point for tourists.

From there begins the route to one of the country's most emblematic destinations: Copán Ruinas , almost four hours away by road, between well-maintained sections and others that are quite deteriorated, in addition to the constant traffic of trucks at the border.

Copán Ruins: The Mayan treasure that lives on

Arriving at Copán Ruinas is to delve into the legacy of the Mayan civilization , in an archaeological site that remains authentic and surprisingly natural .

" Copán is very important for Honduras , as it is the 4th department of the 18 that Honduras has and is divided into 23 municipalities, of which the most touristic are Santa Rosa de Copán and Copán Ruinas , for having a very marked Mayan identity and being closer to the archaeological site ."

Many of the structures are partially covered by trees and roots that have grown over them for centuries, resulting in a landscape where nature and archaeology merge seamlessly. This wild , untouched appearance offers a unique and immersive experience.

" Unlike other more crowded places such as Chichen Itza, Tulum or Tikal , here the visitor can still climb the pyramids , touch the original stones and feel that he is walking on the same ground where centuries ago a center of power, art and knowledge developed ."

After the tour of the archaeological park, the visit continues in a specialized museum that allows you to observe carefully restored original pieces and a reconstruction of architectural elements using the same materials and techniques used by the ancient inhabitants of Copán.

" That duality—seeing what remains in the landscape and what science has been able to reconstruct—makes the visit a complete journey through history . Furthermore, the local guides recount the spiritual, social, and scientific importance that this city held for the Maya ."

Copán, a town that was born thanks to archaeology

The urban environment of Copán Ruinas also has a fascinating history. The hotel and tourism industry arose organically from the interest of the archaeologists who arrived between the 1940s and 1970s to work in the area.

Since there were no formal accommodations, locals began offering rooms in their homes , along with food and basic services. Thus, almost unintentionally, tourism was born in this place, with makeshift lodging and restaurants .

" An emblematic example of this origin is the Hotel Marina Copán , considered the oldest in the region. It is a mansion belonging to a family with great local influence, who decided to transform it into a hotel due to the growing demand for accommodation from archaeologists and today it bears the name 'Marina' in honor of the lady of the house who received the guests with great dedication and affection ."

Today it retains its colonial architecture, with courtyards full of greenery , historic furnishings, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel like they're inside an authentic traditional home. Even politicians and celebrities have stayed there over the decades.

" The entire town retains that colorful and tranquil aesthetic , with very colonial architecture . Its streets lend themselves to a calm walk both day and night, combining safety, cleanliness and a community spirit that can be felt in the atmosphere ."

The taste and sounds of Honduras: coffee, chocolate, and fireworks

A few kilometers from the town, another distinctive feature of the region appears: fireworks . Small kiosks selling fireworks of all kinds pop up along the road.

" At night they are lit to attract the curiosity of passersby and turn the road into a spontaneous party, although it is always important to remember that their use must be careful, as fireworks can be dangerous ."

On the other hand, one of Honduras's greatest sources of pride is its agricultural production , especially coffee and cacao . These products are processed using traditional techniques that prioritize the care of the fruit and the preservation of its designation of origin .

In the western region , coffee plantations abound where the beans are hand-picked and sun- dried, preserving the essence of a coffee that is exported worldwide and has achieved international recognition.

" In Santa Rosa de Copán , for example, there are coffee shops listed in specialized international guides , similar to the Michelin Guide for restaurants , true benchmarks for coffee lovers from Europe and other regions. There are travelers who scour the world in search of the best beans, and Honduras has become a must-see stop on that gastronomic map ."

The same is true for cocoa , which is transformed into a chocolate with a deep flavor, made in chocolate shops where you can learn about the whole process, from harvesting to the tablet.

Copán, a destination for adventure and biodiversity

With its vast vegetation, Honduras is also positioned as a strong destination for adventure tourism . The Copán region lends itself to activities such as canopy tours , hiking , tropical birdwatching , and tours of colorful butterfly gardens .

" Guides often say that Copán has a very similar essence to Costa Rica , due to the perfect combination of nature, adrenaline, and ecotourism ."

One of the most unusual experiences is the bicycle canopy tour , where instead of sliding down a rope with a traditional harness, the traveler pedals a bicycle suspended in the air, moving along metal cables between one point and another. There are only two attractions of this type in the country, and one is located in Copán Ruinas .

What else to see in Honduras

Besides its ancient history and vibrant jungle, Honduras owns two islands that seem to have been taken from a dream: Utila and Roatán .

Both share an extraordinary characteristic: they are part of the second largest coral reef in the world , making them prime destinations for diving and snorkeling . The water is so crystal clear that it allows you to observe marine biodiversity worthy of the best documentaries.

Utila is known for its tranquil beaches and strong diving culture, and is also a popular spot for those seeking certifications at affordable prices. Roatán , on the other hand, is the more touristy of the two, with developed infrastructure, diverse dining options, and an ideal atmosphere for enjoying days of sun, sand, and sea.

To get there you can depart from San Pedro Sula towards the La Ceiba dock, where the ferries leave, or take a direct domestic flight to Roatán.

Tips and recommendations for traveling to Honduras

The official currency is the lempira , named after the famous chief Lempira , an indigenous leader considered a national hero. However, in tourist areas like Copán Ruinas, it's easy to pay in dollars and even with a credit card , without needing to exchange currency. Interestingly, it's common to pay in dollars and receive change in lempiras.

Regarding safety , external perceptions are often influenced by alarming news reports. However, the experience in Copán Ruinas contradicts these prejudices. It is a small, tourist-friendly town, well-protected and organized, which can be explored without fear both day and night.

" There were no moments of concern or situations that generated distrust. The general feeling is that tourist security is under control , which makes the visit a comfortable and peaceful trip ."

This country Honduras presents itself as a destination capable of surprising , exciting , and transforming the traveler. Its Mayan ruins , paradisiacal islands , vibrant jungles , and deeply rooted cultural heritage combine to offer an experience that transcends the conventional. Discover Honduras!