Copan – Travel Guide
A town rich with Mayan history, Copan is a small, colonial town in Honduras close to the Guatemala border. Here you`ll find cobblestone streets and friendly inhabitants, and the magnificence of the most important Archaeological Park of the country: The Ancient Mayan City of Copan and the Mayan Sculpture Museum. For many years, Copan Ruins have been famous for its magnificent Mayan ruins, declared by UNESCO as Archaeological World Heritage Site in 1980. Today Copan Ruins is considered the Paris of the Mayan world in Central America.
All about Copan
Getting Around Copan
By Walking
Copan Ruinas is a small town, and most sites are easily accessible on foot. Copan Ruinas is pedestrian-friendly with cobblestone streets and colonial-style buildings. Most restaurants, hotels, shops, and even the Copan Ruins (about a 15 – 20 minute walk from town) are within walking distance.
It is worth noting that the town is quite hilly, so if you opt to walk to certain sites, you may have to tackle some steep inclines.
By Tuk-Tuks
There are tuk-tuks (motorized three-wheel bikes) all around town. They are easy to flag down for a ride, efficient, and inexpensive. Fares usually range from around 20 to 30 Lempiras depending on the distance.
By Taxi
Taxis are not needed while in town, but if you plan to go to locations farther out of town, such as the hot springs, coffee farms, or border crossings, taxis are available. Always agree on the fare before the ride, as most don’t use meters.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
Copan FAQ
Where is Copan located in Honduras and what is it known for?
Copan is in the northwest corner of Honduras, half an hour from the Guatemalan border. It is located in the longest mountain range of Honduras, known as the Merendon, and is lushly green. Even during the dry season, from December to May, Copan remains one of the most beautiful places in Honduras. The ancient Mayan Ruins, Ruinas de Copan, attract tourists from all over the globe.
What is the best way to get to Copan?
To get there from other destinations in Honduras, you’ll need to use chicken buses or coaches, there aren’t any tourist shuttles.
From San Pedro Sula, it’s about a 3.5 – 4 hour drive. You can also arrive from Guatemala (Antigua or Guatemala City) via shuttle or private transport (4 – 6 hours).
El Salvador, San Pedro Sula or La Entrada in Honduras is easily visited by bus.
You can also get to Copan from Antigua, Guatemala (this is the more popular route to Copan Ruinas).
The ruins themselves are located .6 miles from the cobblestone town of Copan Ruinas.
What is the culture of the locals?
Hondurans are warm and friendly people. They are receptive and happy to interact with visitors.
It is very common for Honduran men to behave enthusiastically when they see a pretty woman, and should you, as a woman, be greeted with flirtatious remarks and gestures, just ignore them and continue on your way.
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More About Copan
What is the legal drinking age?
The legal drinking age in Honduras is 18 years old.
What is the weather like?
The weather in Copan can vary greatly. It can be 98 degrees during the heat of the day and the height of the dry season (mainly during February to May), and a comfortable 85 during the rainy season. During December, it can get down to 60 degrees at night, and during the rainy season (May through November) you can expect torrential rain every afternoon.
The ruins open at 8 am and you should show up then to avoid the scorching heat of midday. If you time it well, you will also have a lot of personal time with the carvings, exploring various sections of the ruins.
I don’t speak Spanish. Will many people speak English?
The official language of Honduras is Spanish. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and be able to talk and interact with local people, you should be able to speak some Spanish. You can survive fine in Honduras even without knowing Spanish well. The Rice Foundation will use interpreters for all of its areas of service, but even when you go into the town of Ruinas de Copan you will find plenty of people who speak enough English for you to get along just fine. We recommend you get a good guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, please, thank you, excuse me, and numbers 1-10.
Is Honduras a safe place to visit?
Honduras has its fair share of thieves and pickpockets, so you will be wise to exercise caution in strolling around town with your valuables. It is better to leave valuables locked up at the hotel and just keep a small amount of cash on you. Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.
Because Copan Ruins is an area often frequented by tourists, there is a higher concentration of law enforcement resources.
Is it safe to drink water?
No, tap water is not recommended for drinking in Honduras. The only water that you should drink in Honduras is bottled water. You will also need to be careful about not brushing your teeth using water from the tap.
What is the best way to get around the Copan Ruinas?
Getting around is pretty straightforward due to its compact layout and variety of local transportation options. Walking is a great way to explore the town center, visit local shops, cafes, and nearby attractions.
Tuk-Tuks (Mototaxis), the three-wheeled motorized taxis, are readily available throughout Copan Ruinas. They are affordable and convenient, especially when traveling with luggage or during inclement weather.
Taxis are available for traveling outside the immediate town area.
Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency in Honduras is the Honduran Lempira. However, the US Dollar is widely accepted most everywhere. We suggest bringing some small bills with you. There are souvenirs you can buy at Ruinas de Copan; you can buy simple trinkets or more expensive things such as paintings. You may also wish to have a coffee or dessert in town. Beyond these things, you won’t need much cash.
You can use a credit card at the larger hotels and gift shops. At smaller, simpler places, you will definitely need cash. There is an ATMs in the town of Ruinas de Copan. There is also the possibility that it could be out of order at one time or another while you are there, so you’d be wise to bring along cash as well.
How long should I spend in Copan?
For most visitors, 2 to 3 days is an ideal amount of time to spend in Copan. Spend time exploring the Copan Ruins, stroll through the charming town of Copan Ruinas, enjoying the cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and small cafes.
Besides visiting the ruins, enjoy the Macaw Mountain Bird Park, relax at the Luna Jaguar Hot Springs, explore local coffee farms, or horseback ride to La Pintada for cave drawings and village life.
What makes the Copan ruins special?
Copan is known for its incredible stone sculptures, detailed hieroglyphs, and the Hieroglyphic Stairway, the longest known text from the ancient Maya world. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Do I need a guide at the ruins?
While it’s not required, a local guide adds great value, helping bring the history and symbolism to life.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
The general emergency number in Honduras is: 911
Clinica La Esperanza (Hope Clinic) is located near the Copan Ruins.
Top Attractions
Birds Park
The park includes an information center where you can interact closely with some of the birds and take photos with them.
Las Sepulturas
A variety of restored structures, mostly elite residences that feature stone benches of which some have carved decorations.
Copan Ruins Archaeological Site
It is estimated that it was founded about 1,300 years ago by citizens of the Mayan nobility and military.
Sculpture Museum of Copán
Stunning museum housing original and replica Mayan sculptures, including the full-size Rosalila Temple.
Unique Experiences
Visit the Macaw Mountain Bird Park & Nature Reserve.
Stroll through a lush forest sanctuary that’s home to rescued macaws, toucans, and owls. You can hold brightly colored macaws and learn about bird conservation in Honduras.
Explore the Copán Ruins.
Beat the crowds and wander among ancient pyramids and stelae while the mist rises from the jungle. The early light reveals the fine details of Mayan carvings and brings a magical calm to the site.
What to expect while traveling
